Starting as a new Airbnb host can feel like a balancing act between creating a welcoming space and managing costs, especially when it comes to essentials like linens. The right choice in linens can elevate your guest experience, simplify turnovers, and make a lasting impression. Here’s a guide to help you select the best linens for your short term rental investment —without breaking the bank.
Why White Linens are the Best Choice
White linens may seem like a risky choice, but they’re actually one of the best options for Airbnb hosts. Here’s why:
Clean Look and Feel: White linens give off a clean, crisp, and fresh appearance that guests love. They signal cleanliness and have a calming event. Using white linens can increase a guest’s overall perception of cleanliness and satisfaction.
Easy to Clean: White linens can handle bleach, which means stains can be removed more effectively than with colored or patterned linens.
Uniformity: With white linens, you don’t need to worry about matching colors between sets. It’s easy to mix and match replacements without disrupting the look of your property.
It’s Not all Black and White
There is one exception to the all white linens rule. Encourage guests to use black make-up towels to remove their mascara by prominently displaying them on the bathroom counter. These towels drastically reduce the risk of ruined white washcloths.
In a vacation rental market where insta-worthy images dictate profitability, all white linens sound pretty boring. But, all white doesn’t have to mean sterile or drab. Add color to your beds with fun throw pillows and decorative blankets. Look for throw pillow covers that can be removed from inserts to be washed and throw blankets that can be thrown in the washer and dryer too.
Why Duvet Covers are a Game-Changer
A duvet cover is a layer that goes over your comforter or duvet, which can then be removed and washed just like sheets. Using duvet covers has several benefits:
Quick Turnover: Duvet covers are easier and faster to wash than a full comforter, which can save you time on laundry days.
Cost-Effective: Instead of replacing comforters when they start to wear, you can simply replace the duvet covers, which are often much more affordable.
Professional Appearance: Duvet covers give your bed a polished, hotel-like finish, helping elevate the overall guest experience.
If you’re looking for a decent option for your airbnb, we have had lots of success with the affordable option from Amazon, it has zippers which maids much prefer as they can quickly put them on a duvet opposed to buttons which take longer.
Finding the Sweet Spot Between Budget and Quality
When shopping for linens, aim for products that strike a balance between quality and affordability. Investing a little more upfront in durable, middle-tier options can save money over time because they’ll last longer and retain their quality. Look for cotton or cotton-blend sheets with a thread count of 200-400, which offer both comfort and durability without the premium price of luxury linens. We love these 400 thread count 100% cotton ones which you can get on Amazon. For towels, consider options that are soft, absorbent, and thick enough to feel plush without being overly costly. A mid-tier quick dry towel is great for cutting your drying time and enables quicker turnovers.
Quantity Guide: Keep Turnovers Smooth with Extra Sets
Having extra sets of linens and towels is essential for efficient turnovers, especially if you have back-to-back bookings. Here’s a quick guide to ensure you’re covered:
Towels: Buy at least double the guest count for bath towels, washcloths, and hand towels. For example, if your listing sleeps four, have at least eight bath towels, washcloths, and hand towels. This way, you have a fresh set ready while others are being laundered.
Sheets and Pillowcases: Purchase at least one extra set of sheets and pillowcases per bed. This makes it easy to switch out linens between guests without waiting for laundry.
Duvet Covers: Have an extra duvet cover for each bed. Just like sheets, this allows you to swap covers quickly, keeping your space fresh and inviting for each new guest.
Pillows: Plan for two bed pillows per guest. Nothing screams cheap more than seeing a king bed with only two standard size pillows.
Don’t Forget the Mattress and Pillow Protectors
Investing in mattress and pillow protectors is essential. These are not only hygienic but also extend the life of your bedding. Waterproof protectors shield against spills, dust, and allergens, giving guests peace of mind while keeping your investment in good condition. High-quality protectors are breathable and won’t disrupt the comfort of your mattress or pillows.
Where to Buy Linens For Your Airbnb
In case you can’t tell, we’re a big fan of Amazon for airbnb linens. Especially the ones you will need to replace frequently. It’s simply the easiest way to quickly and affordably replace linens when you get the call from the maid that it’s that time. However, if you’re just getting started, discount stores or a great place to get affordable pillows, duvet inserts and protectors for your short term rental. We’ve found great pillows at stores such as Ross when furnishing airbnbs and they are actually better quality and less expensive than buying them online. While you are there, take a look at their selection of towels too- you may be surprised to find a large selection of quality towels- however, don’t be surprised if you can’t find the quantity of a specific style of white towels you need.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right linens for your Airbnb doesn’t need to be overwhelming. White linens, duvet covers, and an extra set of everything can go a long way in creating a seamless guest experience. By selecting durable, mid-range products and stocking up on essentials, you can ensure your rental stays fresh, inviting, and ready for the next guest—while keeping turnover stress low.