As the colder months approach, your Airbnb guests will be looking for a warm, inviting escape to relax and recharge. Ensuring your property is properly “winterized” is key to providing a comfortable, enjoyable stay that keeps guests returning year after year. From functional necessities like heating systems to cozy touches like hot drink stations, here’s how to prepare your rental for winter and make sure your guests feel right at home.
1. Ensure Heating Systems Are in Top Shape
First and foremost, your guests need to stay warm! Before winter hits, it’s important to inspect your heating system to ensure everything is running smoothly. The last thing you want is for guests to have issues with heating during their stay.
Tips:
Schedule a service: Have a professional inspect your HVAC system or furnace before peak cold temperatures. Make sure filters are changed, and any necessary maintenance is completed.
Check for drafts: Inspect windows and doors for drafts that might let in cold air. If needed, add weather stripping or draft stoppers to keep the warmth in.
Test portable heaters: If your space relies on smaller heaters, make sure they’re in good working order and easy for guests to operate.
Provide clear instructions: Leave easy-to-follow instructions on how to adjust the thermostat or operate any heating devices to ensure guests can control the temperature comfortably.
2. Layer Your Space with Extra Blankets and Throws
Guests love the feeling of cozying up under a warm blanket during the winter months. Layering your space with soft throws and extra blankets not only adds comfort but also enhances the overall aesthetic.
Tips:
Add throws to common areas: Drape plush blankets over couches or chairs in living spaces to invite guests to snuggle up. Opt for warm, winter-friendly textures like faux fur, wool, or chunky knits.
Stock the bedrooms: Place extra blankets at the foot of each bed. Consider providing options like fleece or down to suit different guest preferences.
Focus on quality: High-quality, cozy fabrics go a long way in making a space feel luxurious and welcoming. If your current throws are worn out or dated, now is the time to upgrade.
3. Create a Hot Drink Station
A hot drink station is a thoughtful, simple touch that makes guests feel cared for, especially during colder months. Whether they’re coffee lovers, tea drinkers, or hot cocoa fans, offering a variety of warm beverages enhances the winter experience.
Tips:
Stock with essentials: Include a coffee maker (French press, drip, or Keurig), an electric kettle, and a variety of coffee, tea, and hot chocolate. Consider adding a few winter flavors, like cinnamon tea or peppermint hot cocoa, to make it festive.
Add sweet extras: Provide sugar, honey, and creamers, and take it up a notch with special seasonal touches like cinnamon sticks, marshmallows, or whipped cream.
Keep it organized: Set up a dedicated drink station with clear instructions on how to use the appliances, and keep everything neatly arranged so guests can easily make their preferred hot drink.
4. Enhance Lighting for a Warm Ambiance
With shorter days and longer nights, good lighting becomes even more important during the winter months. The right lighting not only keeps your space functional but can create a warm, cozy ambiance that helps guests feel more at ease.
Tips:
Layer your lighting: Combine overhead lights with floor lamps, table lamps, and wall sconces to give guests multiple lighting options. This creates a layered, inviting atmosphere.
Use warm bulbs: Opt for soft, warm lighting (around 2700K) to give the space a more relaxing, intimate feel. Avoid harsh, bright white lighting that can feel too cold or sterile in the winter.
Incorporate candles: Flameless LED candles are a safe and easy way to add a cozy glow without any fire hazards. Place them in living rooms, bedrooms, or even bathrooms for added warmth and ambiance.
5. Prepare the Bedrooms for Cold Weather Comfort
When guests stay in the winter, they’ll want to retreat to a cozy, comfortable bedroom that feels like a warm sanctuary. Creating a welcoming, warm bedroom will make their stay more memorable.
Tips:
Invest in quality bedding: Opt for high-thread-count cotton or flannel sheets, and provide a warm duvet or comforter that feels luxurious. Layer bedding with extra blankets or quilts so guests can adjust based on their preference.
Offer multiple pillow types: Since guests have different sleeping preferences, provide a variety of pillows (down, memory foam, hypoallergenic) to ensure a comfortable night’s sleep.
Keep it simple and inviting: While you may want to decorate seasonally, make sure the bedroom remains functional and uncluttered so guests can relax.
6. Stock the Bathroom with Winter Essentials
A comfortable bathroom becomes a haven in winter, especially when it’s stocked with the right amenities to help guests relax after a cold day outside.
Tips:
Provide extra towels: Offer plush, oversized towels and consider adding heated towel racks for a luxurious, spa-like feel.
Warm bath accessories: Stock the bathroom with winter bath products like body wash in warm scents (vanilla, cinnamon, sandalwood) and perhaps even a few bath bombs or salts to encourage guests to indulge in a warm bath.
Keep it cozy: Make sure the bathroom is adequately heated, and consider adding a small portable heater if the space tends to get chilly.
7. Utilize Rugs and Floor Coverings
Hardwood or tile floors can feel cold in the winter months, so it’s essential to add extra layers of warmth and comfort underfoot. Rugs not only add insulation but also help define cozy spaces.
Tips:
Layer rugs in common areas: Add soft area rugs in living rooms and bedrooms to warm up cold floors and create a more intimate, cozy atmosphere. Consider wool or shag rugs for extra insulation.
Add runners in hallways: If you have long hallways or open spaces, runners can help soften these areas and make them feel more inviting.
Keep them clean: Make sure rugs are vacuumed and clean before guests arrive, as dust or dirt can quickly become noticeable on soft flooring.
8. Make the Outdoor Space Winter-Ready
Even during winter, guests may want to enjoy outdoor spaces, whether it’s sipping hot cocoa under a blanket or enjoying the winter scenery.
Tips:
Provide outdoor heating: If you have a patio or deck, consider adding outdoor heaters or a fire pit so guests can comfortably enjoy the fresh air even in colder temperatures.
Offer blankets and seating: Provide outdoor-safe blankets or cushions for seating. Guests will appreciate the added comfort and warmth, especially if they’re spending time outside in the evenings.
Keep pathways clear: If your Airbnb is located in an area that receives snow or ice, ensure that outdoor walkways are shoveled, salted, and free of hazards.
Conclusion
Winterizing your Airbnb is more than just making sure the heater works—it’s about creating a cozy, comfortable atmosphere that makes guests feel at home during the colder months. By preparing your property with these thoughtful touches, you can ensure that your guests enjoy their stay and leave glowing reviews. Whether it’s adding extra blankets, setting up a hot drink station, or enhancing the lighting, these small changes will go a long way in making your Airbnb a winter retreat.
Remember, these tips can also be applied to your own home if you’re hosting guests or simply want to enjoy a cozy, warm space through the winter season!
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