When it comes to preparing an Airbnb for new guests, most hosts focus on the obvious: sparkling surfaces, fresh linens, and tidy spaces. But there’s one powerful — and often overlooked — detail that shapes a guest’s perception of cleanliness the moment they step through the door: smell.
In the world of short-term rentals, scent isn’t just a bonus — it’s an essential part of creating the feeling of a clean, hygienic, and welcoming home.
Here’s why smell matters so much, and how Airbnb hosts and property managers can use it to their advantage.
First Impressions Are Formed Instantly
Guests form an impression of a property within the first few seconds of entering. Before they touch a surface or inspect the bathroom, their nose picks up on the overall scent of the space.
A fresh, clean smell instantly reassures guests that the property has been properly cleaned and cared for. On the other hand, stale odours, strong chemical smells, or lingering food scents can immediately raise concerns about hygiene — even if the property looks spotless.
Smell acts as a silent signal that either builds trust or undermines it.
Scent and the Perception of Cleanliness
Psychological studies show that smell and cleanliness are closely linked in the human brain. Certain scents are naturally associated with hygiene, freshness, and order. Clean-smelling spaces feel healthier, safer, and more inviting.
Common scents that guests associate with cleanliness include:
- Lemon (freshness, sanitisation)
- Eucalyptus (clean air, health)
- Lavender (calm, relaxation)
- Cotton or Linen (fresh laundry, comfort)
Meanwhile, musty, damp, or overpoweringly perfumed smells can trigger discomfort, mistrust, and even negative reviews.
Practical Tips: How to Create the Right Scent Experience
Hosts and managers can enhance the cleanliness perception of their property by:
- Using lightly scented cleaning products that leave a subtle, fresh smell without overwhelming the senses.
- Ensuring all fabrics are freshly laundered, including curtains, cushion covers, and mattress protectors.
- Air-drying the property before guest arrival to avoid stuffiness.
- Using natural air fresheners like essential oil diffusers with lemon, eucalyptus, or lavender oils.
- Checking for hidden odour sources, such as rubbish bins, drains, pet odours, or dampness under sinks.
- Avoiding heavy artificial sprays, which can sometimes make guests suspicious that unpleasant odours are being masked.
A light, natural freshness is the goal — not an overpowering or chemical-heavy scent.
Why It Matters More Than Ever
Post-pandemic, guests are more aware of hygiene than ever before. Cleanliness expectations have risen sharply, and guests are more likely to leave reviews mentioning how “clean and fresh” or “musty and questionable” a property felt.
Smell is no longer a background detail — it’s part of how guests assess whether a property is safe, healthy, and well-maintained.
By paying attention to scent, hosts can create an instant emotional reassurance that their property is sanitary, cared for, and ready to welcome guests into a space they’ll want to return to — and rave about.
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
