For Toronto Airbnb hosts, the cleaning fee is one of the most challenging numbers to set. It’s a delicate balance. While you want to cover your costs, a high fee can scare away potential guests. But thinking of the cleaning fee as just a “cost” is a mistake. You should think of it as funding your most important amenity: a 5-star level of cleanliness.
Step 1: Calculate Your Actual Cleaning Cost
First, be realistic about what a professional turnover costs. It’s not just wiping counters. It includes:
- Labour: 2-4 hours of professional, detailed work.
- Supplies: Professional-grade disinfectants and cleaning agents.
- Laundry: The cost and time of washing all linens and towels.
- Restocking: The cost of guest amenities (soap, coffee, etc.).
- Management: Time spent coordinating and quality-checking.
For a typical 1-bedroom condo in Toronto, your actual professional cleaning cost could be anywhere from $75 to $150+. Don’t undervalue this; find out your real cost by getting a quote from a professional service.
Step 2: Survey Your Competition
Look at comparable listings in your Toronto neighbourhood. What are their cleaning fees? This gives you a baseline. If your fee is significantly higher, you need to be able to justify it in your listing description by emphasizing your commitment to professional, hygienic cleaning.
Step 3: To “Bake In” or Not to “Bake In”?
- Separate Fee: This is the most transparent method. Guests see exactly what they’re paying for cleaning. This is the standard for most listings.
- “Baking It In”: Some hosts increase their nightly rate to offer “no cleaning fee.” This can be an attractive marketing tactic, but you risk losing money on one-night stays. It works best if you have a multi-night minimum.
Step 4: Justify the Fee in Your Listing
Don’t just state the fee; sell the benefit. Use phrases in your listing description like:
- “We have a dedicated professional cleaning team to ensure the space is sanitized and pristine for your arrival.”
- “Our professional cleaning fee guarantees a 5-star, hotel-quality standard of hygiene.”
A reasonable, well-justified cleaning fee isn’t a deterrent—it’s a promise of quality that attracts discerning guests.
Need a reliable quote to calculate your true cleaning costs? Contact My Canada Cleaning for a free, no-obligation estimate on our 5-star Airbnb turnover services.