As an Airbnb host, one of the perks of offering a pet-friendly space is attracting guests who travel with their furry companions. However, along with the joy of hosting four-legged friends comes the challenge of dealing with pet hair. Whether it’s on the furniture, carpets, or in the air, pet hair can accumulate quickly and make your space look shabby in no time. Utilising the right tools and strategies, can help you to keep your property clean and fresh – and most importantly keep those 5-star ratings.
Here are the best methods to effectively remove pet hair from your Airbnb property and keep it guest-ready for every new arrival.
1. Start with the Right Tools: Lint Rollers & Rubber Gloves
When it comes to removing pet hair, a good lint roller is one of your best friends. It’s portable, easy to use, and perfect for quick touch-ups on furniture, bedding, and even clothing. Make sure you have one in every room, so you’re ready for those last-minute clean-ups.
Pro Tip:
If you’re dealing with a larger area of hair, or you need to get deep into upholstery, use rubber gloves. Simply put on the gloves, dampen them slightly, and run your hands over the fabric. The static electricity generated by the rubber helps lift the pet hair from the fabric. It’s a cheap, eco-friendly way to keep your space clean.
2. Invest in a Vacuum with a HEPA Filter
While lint rollers and rubber gloves are great for small areas, large surfaces like carpets, rugs, and upholstery require a more robust solution. A vacuum with a HEPA filter is essential for efficiently removing pet hair from carpets and fabric. HEPA filters trap tiny particles like pet dander and fine hair, which helps improve air quality in addition to keeping your space clean.
Pro Tip:
Use a vacuum with multiple attachments, including a brush nozzle for upholstery and a crevice tool for getting into tight corners. This will ensure you capture every strand of pet hair in even the hardest-to-reach places.
3. Use a Rubber Broom for Upholstery and Carpets
For stubborn pet hair embedded in fabrics, a rubber broom is a fantastic tool. The rubber bristles are designed to attract pet hair and make it easy to gather and remove. This tool is particularly useful for cleaning sofas, armchairs, and even carpets, without the need for a full vacuum.
Pro Tip:
When using a rubber broom, make sure to work in the direction of the fabric’s fibres to avoid pushing the hair deeper into the material. Once you’ve gathered the hair, simply vacuum up the loosened debris for a more thorough clean.
4. Wash Pet Bedding and Cushions Regularly
If your Airbnb is pet-friendly, it’s important to provide pet bedding, cushions, or blankets for your furry guests. These items can quickly become covered in pet hair, so be sure to clean them regularly between stays.
Actionable Solution:
Wash pet bedding, cushions, and blankets on a hot wash cycle to remove hair and bacteria. Add a cup of vinegar to the wash to help loosen any remaining hair and eliminate any odours. After washing, tumble-dry on a low heat setting, as this will help shake out any remaining hair.
Pro Tip:
Consider using washable slipcovers for furniture. Slipcovers are easy to remove and wash, preventing hair from accumulating on your main upholstery.
5. Invest in a Steam Cleaner Designed for Pet Hair
For a deeper, more thorough clean, consider investing in a steam cleaner specifically designed for pet hair removal. These cleaners use hot steam to lift hair from carpets and upholstery, making it easier to remove embedded pet hair without harsh chemicals. Not only do they help clean effectively, but they also sanitise surfaces, leaving your Airbnb property fresh and allergen-free for every guest.
Pro Tip:
Look for steam cleaners with attachments designed for upholstery and pet hair. These tools make cleaning more efficient and ensure every nook and cranny is free from pet hair. Check out Shark and Bissell as two of the best brands.
6. Air Purifiers: Reduce Pet Hair in the Air
Pet hair isn’t just a surface issue – it can also become airborne, especially when pets move around. An air purifier with a HEPA filter can help capture pet hair from the air, improving the overall air quality in your Airbnb.
Pro Tip:
Place an air purifier in high-traffic areas or pet-friendly rooms to capture airborne pet hair and dander. This will also help prevent the spread of odours, ensuring your space smells fresh for every new guest.
Conclusion: Keep Your Airbnb Clean and Pet-Friendly
Dealing with pet hair in your Airbnb property doesn’t have to be a struggle. By using the right tools, sticking to a regular cleaning schedule, and investing in pet-friendly fabrics, you can keep your space clean and inviting for both human and animal guests.
Written by Tabitha Wellman, Business Manager, Manhattan Maids Pty Ltd
Manhattan Maids is a professional, women-led cleaning company delivering premium residential, Airbnb, and corporate housing cleaning services across Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, Gold Coast, Margaret River and Dunsborough.
Founded on the belief that everyone deserves a clean, welcoming space without the stress, we specialise in reliable, high-quality, hotel-standard cleaning — with a personal touch. Whether it’s preparing homes for guests, helping busy families, or supporting property managers, we’re committed to making life easier, healthier, and a little more beautiful for every client we serve.
To find our more about our services, contact Camilla on 0451 624 772 or vipclient@manhattanmaids.com.au | www.manhattanmaids.com.au
