Airbnb's new rules prohibit hosts from making guests wash dishes, take out trash, more

Though Airbnb is frequently seen as a cost-effective alternative to traditional hotels, guests have long complained about steep cleaning fees combined with checkout task lists. Now, that's changing. The homestay marketplace has rolled out new rules prohibiting hosts from requiring guests to do certain cleaning tasks.

Under its updated guidelines, hosts are now generally not allowed to ask guests to complete tasks that require significant effort or time, or would typically be performed by a cleaner.

These include "stripping the bed, taking trash offsite, or washing and putting away dishes."

However, hosts can still ask guests to do light tasks, like putting used dishes in the sink, gathering used towels, separating their trash and recycling into designated indoor bins, and turning off certain utilities when they leave.

"When adding a request, remember that most guests want to avoid unexpected chores. Asking them to do things a cleaner should handle can negatively affect their stay and your reviews," the company stated.

Airbnb said that it may grant exceptions based on the situation.

"For example, it may be reasonable to ask guests to dispose of trash in an animal-proof container in bear country or ask guests to limit shower time due to local drought-related water restrictions," they added.

The policy will be applied to reservations booked on or after Nov. 20.