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Creating a five-star Airbnb experience doesn’t require luxury renovations—it starts with the thoughtful essentials you provide. Choosing the right Airbnb supplies is crucial to ensure a comfortable stay for your guests. Today’s travelers expect comfort, convenience, and care in every detail. When your property anticipates guest needs, great reviews follow naturally.

This guide simplifies your hosting journey with 10 essential Airbnb supplies—organized by category—so you can confidently stock your space, wow your guests, and keep those 5-star ratings rolling in.

Introduction to Hosting

Becoming a successful Airbnb host starts with more than just listing your property—it’s about creating a vacation rental property that feels inviting, comfortable, and thoughtfully prepared for every guest. The foundation of a great guest experience is a well-stocked rental, furnished with all the basics and a few special items that make a stay memorable. From cozy linens to essential toiletries, having the necessary supplies on hand ensures guests feel at home from the moment they arrive.

A well-prepared property not only delights guests but also sets you apart in a competitive market, increasing your chances of earning glowing reviews and achieving Superhost status. As you furnish your space, think about the details that transform a simple rental into a true home away from home—if you're new to this, how to start a vacation rental business can guide you through every step. Additionally, leveraging vacation rental software can simplify your hosting journey, helping you manage bookings, automate guest communication, and keep track of inventory with ease. By focusing on both the essentials and those thoughtful extras, you’ll create a welcoming environment that guests will remember and recommend.

1. Bathroom & Toiletry Essentials

A great stay often begins (and ends) in the bathroom. Stocking the right items ensures guests feel cared for and sets the tone for cleanliness and comfort.

Must-Haves:

• Plush bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths (2 per guest minimum)
• Non-slip bath mats 
• Toilet paper (at least two spare rolls per bathroom)
• Hand soap at each sink
• Shower essentials: shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
• Compact hair dryer

Pro Tip: Elevate your amenities with eco-friendly, refillable dispensers. Guests notice and appreciate your commitment to sustainability.

2. Bedroom & Linen Must-Haves

Sleep quality is one of the top drivers of 5-star reviews. Guests want a bed that feels hotel-worthy.

Must-Haves:

• Waterproof, hypoallergenic mattress protector
• Fresh, high-quality sheets (2–3 sets per bed)
• Fluffy pillows with protective covers
• Duvet or comforter with an easy-to-wash cover
• Light blankets for layering
• Night lights for added safety and comfort, especially for families with children.

Pro Tip: Stick to white or neutral bedding. It looks professional, washes easily in hot water, and gives guests confidence in cleanliness.

3. Kitchen Essentials for Home-Cooked Comfort

A well-stocked kitchen transforms a short-term rental into a true home-away-from-home. Keeping a comprehensive list of kitchen essentials ensures nothing is forgotten, helping guests save money and enjoy more memorable stays when they can cook comfortably.

Must-Haves:

• Pots, pans, and a non-stick frying pan
• Plates, bowls, and utensils (1.5x guest capacity)
• Every day glasses, coffee mugs, and wine glasses
• Basic cooking utensils: spatula, ladle, tongs, measuring cups
• Can opener, bottle opener, cutting boards, and vegetable peeler
• Cooking oil
• Trash bags and basic cleaning supplies

Pro Tip: For extended-stay bookings, add storage containers, foil, and dish towels. These practical touches often lead to glowing reviews.

4. Coffee & Beverage Station

Morning rituals matter. A thoughtful coffee setup is one of the most-mentioned amenities in positive Airbnb reviews.

Must-Haves:

• Coffee maker or Keurig + clear instructions
• Coffee (regular & decaf) and assorted teas
• Creamers and sweeteners
• Ample coffee mugs and spoons

Pro Tip: A dedicated beverage station with labeled containers and a small welcome note turns a simple amenity into a delightful guest experience. Learn more about customer amenities and how they can elevate your service.

5. Living Room Comforts

Your living room is the heart of the guest experience. Make it inviting and functional for lounging, socializing, or relaxing after a day of exploring. Choose durable furniture and consider protective covers to maintain its condition and ensure guest comfort.

Must-Haves:

• Comfortable sofa or chairs for all guests (opt for sturdy, easy-to-clean furniture)
• Coffee table and end tables
• Layered lighting (overhead + table/floor lamps)
• Smart TV with streaming capabilities
• Visible WiFi info and troubleshooting guide

Pro Tip: Add throw blankets and pillows for cozy touches, and keep local guides or magazines accessible.

6. Laundry & Cleaning Supplies

Cleanliness isn’t just expected—it’s essential for trust and repeat bookings. Having a complete set of Airbnb cleaning supplies is crucial for maintaining your property, ensuring guest satisfaction, and making cleaning management easier.

Must-Haves for Guests:

• All-purpose cleaner & disinfectant wipes
• Dish soap and sponges
• Paper towels and trash bags
• Broom, dustpan, and basic vacuum

Must-Haves for Turnovers:

• Microfiber cloths for streak-free cleaning
• Mop and bucket (or steam mop)
• Stain remover and laundry detergent
• Essential cleaning tools such as mops, vacuums, and dusters

Pro Tip: Consider eco-friendly cleaning supplies to support guest wellness and your sustainability goals.

7. Smart Tech & Connectivity

Tech-savvy touches add convenience and can help prevent issues before they happen.

Must-Haves:

• Reliable, high-speed WiFi
• Smart TV or streaming stick
• Keyless entry or smart lock for self check-in, providing secure and convenient access for guests

Optional Upgrades:

• Voice assistant (Alexa/Google)
• Smart plugs or thermostats for energy efficiency
• WiFi boosters for larger properties

8. Safety & Emergency Supplies

Safety builds guest trust and host protection. Ensure your property meets local safety regulations and Airbnb’s requirements. Providing essential emergency materials, such as first aid kits, flashlights, and information sheets, helps guests feel secure and prepared during their stay.

Must-Haves:

• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors (hardwired or 10-year battery)
• Fire extinguisher within 30 feet of the kitchen
• First aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers (emergency materials)
• Flashlights with extra batteries (emergency materials)
• Emergency contact info and local hospital details (information materials)

Pro Tip: Post your WiFi, emergency numbers, and checkout reminders in one attractive, laminated sheet near the entryway.

9. Guest Welcome Kit

First impressions last. A thoughtful welcome kit sets a warm tone and often gets mentioned in reviews. Including nice extras, such as fresh flowers, can make guests feel truly special, especially couples on a romantic getaway.

Ideas to Include:

• Handwritten welcome note
• Bottled water or local snacks
• Fresh flowers as a welcoming gesture
• A small map or local guidebook
• WiFi details in a friendly format

Pro Tip: Keep it authentic, not expensive—it’s the thoughtfulness that counts.

10. Eco-Friendly Hosting Essentials

Today’s travelers notice your commitment to sustainability, and it can influence their reviews.

Easy Swaps:

• Refillable shampoo, conditioner, and soap dispensers
• Recycled paper products
• Reusable shopping bags and glass food containers
• Energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting

Pro Tip: Highlight your eco-friendly efforts in your listing. Guests who value sustainability will remember—and mention—it in reviews.

Tips for Buying Airbnb Supplies

Stocking your vacation rental with the right supplies doesn’t have to be expensive or overwhelming. Start by shopping bulk essentials like towels, toilet paper, and paper goods—these high-use items are always in demand, and buying in bulk helps you save money over time. When it comes to kitchen supplies, invest in quality cookware and utensils that can handle frequent use, ensuring your well-stocked kitchen stands up to every guest’s needs.

Don’t overlook the little extras that elevate a guest’s stay, such as body wash, shampoo, and laundry detergent. Purchasing these vacation rental supplies in larger quantities not only saves you money but also ensures you’re always ready for the next booking. Store your supplies in a clean, organized space to maintain their quality and make restocking a breeze.

Online shopping platforms can be a game-changer for busy hosts, making it easy to buy Airbnb supplies like trash bags, cleaning supplies, and other essentials with just a few clicks. Consider the unique needs of your guests—business travelers will appreciate a laptop-friendly workspace, while families may value a kitchen equipped for home-cooked meals. By focusing on both the must-haves and a few special items, you’ll create a comfortable, welcoming rental that caters to every guest and keeps those five-star reviews coming in.

Quick Reference: Essentials for 5-Star Stays

Note: Providing guests with basic amenities such as toiletries, towels, Wi-Fi, workspace essentials, and kitchen supplies is essential to ensure a positive experience and meet guest expectations.

Download the complete Airbnb Host Essentials Checklist to keep your property guest-ready every time.

Elevate Every Stay: How Thoughtful Airbnb Essentials Lead to 5-Star Reviews

Successful Airbnb hosts know that hosting is more than providing a place to sleep—it’s about creating memorable guest experiences by offering amenities that make both you and your guests feel comfortable. Stocking these 10 essentials not only helps you earn 5-star Airbnb reviews but also builds loyalty, repeat bookings, and word-of-mouth referrals.

To cater to different guest needs, consider families, business travelers, or pet owners—providing items like pet food, extra linens, hospitality supplies, or work-friendly spaces can make your listings stand out. Offering hotel-quality amenities similar to those found in hotels will help your listings compete and appeal to more travelers. Having the right supplies on hand throughout a guest's stay reduces hassle for everyone and ensures a smooth experience.

Focus on comfort, safety, and sustainability, and your guests will remember the care in every detail.