Airbnb bans dishwashing and taking out the trash as checkout chores

Airbnb is changing its house rules policy to stop hosts from requiring guests to do time-consuming chores at checkout. The updated policy applies to reservations booked on or after November 20.

Hosts cannot ask guests to complete tasks that take significant effort or time, or that would typically be done by a cleaner. Guests should not be asked to wash and put away dishes, remove sheets from beds, start laundry, or take garbage off-site. Hosts can ask guests to leave used dishes in the sink, gather used towels, and sort trash and recycling into designated indoor bins.

The policy also says hosts cannot ask guests to avoid using a listed amenity, such as air conditioning, though they can ask guests to turn it off when they leave. Hosts cannot add extra rules in messages or on signs around the property.

Airbnb is showing host requests more prominently in a new “rules and requests” section on listings. Listings that retain chore requests after the policy takes effect may display an “includes cleaning requests” warning.

Some hosts objected to the restrictions on Airbnb’s forums, citing health risks and arguing guests can choose not to book listings with strict rules. Airbnb says exceptions may apply, such as asking guests in bear country to put trash in an animal-proof container.