Airbnb is tightening its rules on what chores guests can be asked to perform before checking out. A recent policy update says hosts may still make “requests” of visitors, but those requests must be reasonable. The company gives examples: asking guests to strip beds or run multiple loads of laundry would be considered unreasonable, while collecting used towels is permissible. The policy states hosts should not ask guests to carry out tasks that require significant effort or time, or that would normally be handled by a professional cleaner.
The change is part of a larger overhaul of Airbnb’s host guidelines that was first reported by Euronews. Under the new system, hosts can choose from seven predefined rules for their property and add any extra notes as requests. These rules and requests must appear only in the dedicated section of the rental listing; hosts are prohibited from communicating them after a booking via messages, in‑home signs, or in person. The move is intended to curb the passive‑aggressive signage that has appeared in many rentals.
Airbnb does allow exceptions for special circumstances, such as requiring trash to be placed in a bear‑proof container in areas where wildlife is common. The revised policy is slated to take effect on November 20.
By Anna Washenko, Oct. 21, 2026, 6:04 p.m. EST. Image credit: Pixel‑Shot/Shutterstock.