So you’re a host and you want your guests to feel cozy, but these Airbnb decor mistakes will take your short term rental from classy to cringeworthy…
Hey there, fellow Airbnb hosts and aficionados of questionable taste! Let’s talk about the gaudy elephant in the room—your Airbnb decor. Grab your cup of cocoa and marshmallows; it’s time for a good roast. I’m about to spill the seven biggest blunders I’ve seen hosts make in Airbnb decor. Make these mistakes, and you’ll turn your fabulous vacation rental into a cringe-fest faster than you can say ‘overpriced cleaning fee.’
1. Sign Overload: Are you hosting guests or inmates?
Picture this: you enter an Airbnb and instead of a warm welcome, you’re bombarded with signs plastered everywhere, dictating what you can and cannot do. “Don’t touch this,” “Don’t go there,” “Don’t breathe too loudly.” Seriously, are you expecting guests or inmates? Remember, less is more.
*Superhost tip: Choose furniture and appliances that are straightforward and intuitive to use. If something is fragile or has high sentimental value, leave it out. Your decor should speak for itself without the need for a thousand commandments.
2. The Nickel and Dime Vibe: Pay-Per-Breath, Anyone?
You know what’s tackier than a generic inspirational farmhouse sign? Charging your guests for simple, basic amenities like water or coffee. Look, I understand wanting to make a profit, but nickel and diming your guests for every little thing screams “cheap”. Provide essentials for free, and your guests might just leave you a glowing review instead of a scathing one. For example, if you have a fireplace, don’t skimp on the cozy vibes – provide the logs instead of charging guests extra. Otherwise, be transparent and let guests know that logs aren’t provided.
I get it, you read on another Airbnb host blog that selling items in your rental could boost your income. But that’s terrible advice. No guest wants to feel nickel-and-dimed.
Wanna know how to make your guests feel truly welcomed? Here’s some inspo tips for you to create the perfect Airbnb welcome basket.
3. Dinky Decor Disaster: When Fragile Meets Frightening
Ah, the allure of cheap decor—it’s like catnip for budget-conscious hosts! On Air and Away blog, I’m always advocating for being budget-conscious. However, I despise tacky. Here’s the thing: those delicate trinkets and flimsy furniture might look cute in pictures, but they won’t survive a single weekend with rowdy guests.
*Superhost tip: Invest in quality pieces that can withstand the occasional bump and bruise. Trust me; your wallet (and your dignity) will thank you later.
4. Cleanliness Catastrophe: Dust Bunnies Are Not Welcome Guests
Let’s get one thing straight: nobody wants to sleep in a cesspool of dirt and grime. Yet, somehow, some hosts (better not be you) seem to think that a quick once-over with a feather duster qualifies as “cleaning.” Newsflash: it doesn’t. If your Airbnb looks like a crime scene from CSI, don’t be surprised when guests make a run for it faster than you can say “refund.” Instead, dedicate proper time and effort to thorough cleaning, ensuring every nook and cranny is spotless for a welcoming stay (and 5 star reviews). You’ve been warned.
5. DIY Disaster: Pinterest Fails Galore
I get it – you’re a creative soul with a penchant for arts and crafts. But before you channel your inner Iola Boylen and start bedazzling everything in sight, ask yourself one question: “Does this look like something a sane person would want in their home?” If the answer is no, then please for the love of all that’s holy, put down the glitter and step away from the mason jars.
6. When Themed Decor Goes Wild
So you’ve got a theme in mind for your Airbnb. Maybe it’s beach vibes, rustic charm, or vintage glam. But sometimes, what starts as a subtle nod to a theme can quickly spiral into a full-blown kitsch fest. Your guests aren’t looking to feel like they’ve stepped onto a movie set; they just want a cozy spot to call home for a few days. So, reign in the themed decor and opt for a more balanced approach that won’t leave your guests feeling like they’re trapped in a tacky time warp.
7. Clutter Calamity: Hoarders, Airbnb Edition
Repeat after me: clutter is not cute. Sure, that collection of vintage tea cups might look charming to you, but to your guests, it’s just one more thing to accidentally knock over.
*Superhost tip: Keep your vacation rental decor simple and streamlined, and invest in some storage solutions. Your guests, your cleaner, and your sanity will thank you for it.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – the seven tacky sins of Airbnb decor mistakes. Avoid these pitfalls, and you’ll be well on your way to earning rave reviews and repeat bookings. Remember, when it comes to decor, less is often more, and tacky is never in style. Happy hosting!
This post was all about Airbnb decor mistakes that takes your short term rental from classy to tacky!
Leave a Reply