Looking to optimize your Airbnb rental and increase your bookings? Discover the 10 essential amenities that will make all the difference. Bassel, our short-term rental expert, shares his concrete tips to transform your property into an unforgettable experience.
You've optimized your amenities, now automate their management. Our AI co-host answers questions about coffee, wifi, air conditioning, and all your amenities 24/7, without you lifting a finger. No more 6:30 AM calls for coffee machine problems.
Get startedThe bed choice is crucial for your guests' satisfaction. A King Size bed (180x200 cm / 71x79 inches) offers optimal space and represents the most sought-after size on Airbnb.
"The choice of bed size has a real impact on comfort and bookings. Many travelers notice it right away in your listing."
Suitable alternative: If space is limited, opt for a Queen Size bed (160x200 cm / 63x79 inches), more spacious than a standard bed while remaining compact.
Memory foam mattresses are now an excellent option:
โ ๏ธ Important note: Choose a silent mattress protector. Plastic noises are regularly mentioned in negative reviews.
Offering a pack-and-play crib in the closet with appropriate linens significantly increases your bookings from families, without additional logistical constraints.
"It's one of Airbnb's greatest advantages over traditional hotel bookings. Many travelers choose Airbnb just for that."
Indispensable quality utensils:
Strategic appliances:
Plan for at least 2 times more plates, glasses, and cutlery than the number of guests. This margin protects you in case of breakage and avoids stress between rentals.
If you charge cleaning fees and ask guests to wash their dishes, the dishwasher becomes essential. Without this equipment, expect negative reviews.
๐ก Practical tip: Provide dishwasher tablets in a labeled container.
"Sometimes when a utensil is missing, even a trivial one, it can cost you a rating point. I experienced this with a missing vegetable peeler, for example."
"It's an often-neglected point but actually it's a central element and it's very often highlighted by Airbnb filters. That means it's very much in demand today."
The essentials:
โ To avoid: The printer. Source of numerous problems (cartridges, malfunctions), it generates more constraints than benefits.
Always think about the balance between:
"The morning experience and coffee, for me it's a must-have. You must provide coffee, for me it's mandatory."
Think about alternatives:
๐ก Practical organization: Store products in airtight, labeled containers.
Forget bean-to-cup machines or complex percolators. Here's why:
"99% of people can't even tell the difference between the taste of a Nespresso capsule and artisanal coffee selected and roasted locally. And moreover, you'll have problems cleaning and maintaining it."
Risks of complex machines:
Favor simplicity with a capsule machine. Bassel doesn't even offer filter coffee and has never received a negative comment about it.
Install labeled dispensers for:
Place them strategically: shower, sink, etc.
โ Bar soaps (perceived as unhygienic)
โ Hotel-style sample soaps (not eco-friendly)
Leave refill bottles in locked storage. Your team can fill empty dispensers at each turnover.
Provide cleaning supplies (white vinegar, broom, vacuum cleaner). Contrary to common belief, many travelers like to maintain cleanliness during their stay.
"Most travelers don't want to organize a meeting with the host for their arrival. You must eliminate everything that's inconvenient to guarantee the best possible experience."
For the guest:
For you:
Self check-in is systematically displayed as a "great standout feature" by Airbnb on listings that offer it.
"A digital Airbnb welcome guide changes everything and allows you to answer all guests' questions without them having to contact you every time."
Practical information:
Local recommendations:
The plus: Add videos to humanize the experience and compensate for the lack of physical meeting.
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Instant updates without reprinting
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Accessible before arrival and during stay
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Consultation on smartphone
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Drastically reduces inquiries
"A welcome guide is an element that constantly evolves. The more you learn about what works or doesn't work in your property, the more you'll enrich your welcome guide."
Frequent reasons for updates:
A mirror allowing guests to see themselves full-length in the bedroom significantly improves morning comfort.
To favor: Wall-mounted mirror
To avoid: Free-standing movable mirror (risk of breakage, clutter)
"Think about the potential problem your equipment could cause and make sure it can't happen."
Mirrors displaying weather or personalized information (restaurants, activities). An option to consider if your budget allows.
"Air conditioning in summer is ultra-demanded. You'll attract many travelers willing to spend more for this option."
Challenges:
Solutions:
Air conditioning represents a major source of electricity consumption. A connected system allows you to maintain profitability while offering this highly sought-after comfort.
"I let you be imaginative to add something that nobody or almost nobody does, which will set you apart from all the competition. The goal is to create a wow effect for your guest."
Luxury options:
Original experiences:
For families and groups:
Offering a local specialty creates a strong emotional connection and stays in memories.
"This will add potential issues and maintenance for sure. But well-chosen, this element can really completely change the game and improve your ratings."
This unique amenity can even compensate for a shortcoming or defect in your property.
Results vary according to:
Some amenities will be impossible to add (air conditioning, washing machine in a small apartment), but this analysis allows you to prioritize your investments.
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By implementing these 10 amenities, your Airbnb will significantly stand out from the competition. The goal isn't to have every possible amenity, but to intelligently choose those that:
"If you implement these 10 elements, your Airbnb will definitely stand out from the competition and you'll maximize your bookings."
Don't forget the fundamental principle: perfect is the enemy of good. Except for your signature amenity, the one that will create the wow effect and justify a premium rate.
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What if an AI co-host answered your guests' questions? Dishwasher instructions, restaurant recommendations, amenities management: AI handles everything.
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