What should I include in checkout instructions?

Keep it to 5–7 items: towels in the tub, dishwasher on, trash out, doors locked, and a quick 'text us when you leave.' More than 7 items drops completion below 50%.

Checkout Instructions

Checkout instructions are a short, scannable list of tasks guests should complete before leaving. Clear instructions cut cleaner overage charges by ~30% and reduce 'guest left a mess' disputes. This is the StayFlow playbook used by thousands of short-term rental hosts in 2026.

What is checkout instructions?

Checkout instructions are a short, scannable list of tasks guests should complete before leaving. Clear instructions cut cleaner overage charges by ~30% and reduce 'guest left a mess' disputes.

Key takeaways

Optimal task count: 5 – 7
Send timing: 10 PM the night before
Format: Numbered list, < 100 words
Asking guests to strip beds — most cleaners prefer to do it themselves to inspect for damage.
Charging late-checkout fees without auto-reminders an hour before.

Benchmarks

Metric	Value
Optimal task count	5 – 7
Send timing	10 PM the night before
Format	Numbered list, < 100 words

Step-by-step playbook

Step 1
Step 1
Strip used towels and place in tub.
Step 2
Step 2
Start the dishwasher if not full.
Step 3
Step 3
Trash and recycling to the bin outside.
Step 4
Step 4
Lock all doors, leave keys on the counter (or just close the smart lock).
Step 5
Step 5
Text the host when you're out.

Common mistakes to avoid

Asking guests to strip beds — most cleaners prefer to do it themselves to inspect for damage.
Charging late-checkout fees without auto-reminders an hour before.
Writing 15+ tasks — guests ignore the list entirely.

Frequently asked questions

What should I include in checkout instructions?: Keep it to 5–7 items: towels in the tub, dishwasher on, trash out, doors locked, and a quick 'text us when you leave.' More than 7 items drops completion below 50%.