Furnishing your Airbnb | The Complete Guide

You’re here because your Airbnb or short-term rental needs a furniture makeover. Picking out furniture can feel overwhelming. 

But with the right pieces, you can turn your space into a guest magnet, ramp up your nightly rates from $150 to $650 or more. 

Why Furnishing Matters?

First impressions count. A well-furnished Airbnb can lead to better reviews, higher occupancy rates and even the ability to charge more per night. The right furniture and decor not only make your space look great but also ensure comfort and convenience for your guests.

6 Tips for Furnishing Your Airbnb

Furnishing your Airbnb is more than just picking out pretty furniture —  it's about creating a welcoming, functional and memorable space for your guests. Here are the top 6 things to keep in mind:

Define your goals

Before diving into furnishing, figure out what you want to achieve. Are you looking to boost bookings, wow your guests or maybe justify a higher rental rate? Maybe you’re sprucing things up to keep up with the competition or to meet new standards. 

Having clear goals helps you make smart choices and ensures your space meets your needs.

Understand your audience

Think about who your guests are. Are they business travelers, families, couples or solo adventurers? Tailoring your space to fit their needs can make a big difference. 

Business travelers might appreciate a workspace, while families will value extra sleeping arrangements and kid-friendly features. Understanding your audience helps you create a space that feels just right for them.

Make a checklist

Start with a checklist. List everything you need for each room, from furniture to decor to essentials like kitchenware and toiletries. This way, you won’t miss anything and it helps keep you organized. Break it down by room to make it even easier to manage.

Pro tip: Take stock of your current furniture, noting its condition and usefulness. Then, list the essentials needed for each room. Compare these lists to see what you can buy, reuse or repair. Prioritize your shopping based on needs and budget and consider cost-saving options like secondhand stores, DIY projects or garage sales.

Set a budget

Budgeting is key to avoid blowing your money. Set a maximum and minimum budget to give yourself a range. This helps you prioritize spending on must-haves while leaving room for a few splurges. Keep track of all expenses to stay within your budget and spend wisely.

Loop in your cleaning crew

Your cleaning crew knows your property inside out. Make sure they're aware of any new furniture or changes in the layout. 

Pick furniture that’s easy to clean and maintain. Get their input on what holds up best since they deal with the wear and tear.

Pick the right time to update

Timing is everything. Pick a time that impacts your bookings the least to update your furniture. Consider the off-season when you have fewer guests or plan short gaps between bookings for minor updates. This minimizes disruption and keeps your place in top shape for guests.

Furniture and Accessories: Airbnb Host Checklist

When furnishing your Airbnb, remember you're catering to all kinds of guests with all kinds of tastes. The way you arrange your furniture can make a big difference in how spacious and functional your place feels. 

Start by measuring your rooms and figuring out the best layout. Don't block those beautiful natural light sources and make sure there's plenty of space to move around. Stick to your theme if you have one, but go for timeless, sturdy pieces that will last. 

Here are some simple, cost-effective tips for picking out key furniture:

The bedroom 

The bed

• Go for a solid bed that's easy to clean.

• A storage bed is a game-changer for extra space to stash laundry and linens.

• Watch out for beds with flimsy legs, especially those made of plastic.

Mattress

• Go for a mattress that's at least 8 inches thick.

• Opt for memory foam mattresses as they are more durable than spring mattresses and cheaper to replace.

• Use a mattress cover to ensure your mattress survives longer, even with messy guests. 

Bedding

• Opt for white as it gives a hotel-like feel and can be bleached. 

• Don’t mix and match the whites from different brands to ensure consistency.

Mirror

• A full-length mirror is a must for guests getting ready. 

• Have a power socket close by for hair dryers/ straighteners. 

• Choose a mirror with a cool frame for some added style.

The bathroom

Towels and linens

• High-quality, durable towels in neutral colors are best since they can be bleached.

• Provide enough storage for guests' toiletries and personal items.

Storage

• Shelves or cabinets make it easy for guests to access essentials.

Accessories

• A hairdryer, basic toiletries and a first-aid kit can make a big difference.

The living room

The sofa

• Sofas have a lot of traffic passing through them so buy one that can stand the test of time and is easy to clean.

• Steer clear of real and faux leather — they're tough to maintain.

• Sofas with washable covers are a lifesaver.

• Opting for a sofa bed. It can increase the number of guests you can accommodate, allowing you to increase the overall rent for your property. 

Tables and chairs 

• Your dining table should be tough and resistant to wear and tear.

• It doesn’t have to be the best-looking piece of furniture in the room as it can easily be dressed with a tablecloth, a runner and a couple of vases or candles.

• Opt for comfy, lightweight chairs that are easy to move around.

• Chairs will sometimes have to bear the weight of 150 kgs depending on the guests who visit so think sturdy, yet light materials when it comes to chairs. 

• Darker chairs hide stains better and are more practical.

The kitchen

Appliances

• Equip your kitchen with essentials like a coffee maker, microwave, toaster and kettle.

• A good blender and a set of sharp knives are nice extras.

Cookware and utensils

• Stock up on basic cookware, utensils and dinnerware.

• Include items like a cutting board, measuring cups and a corkscrew.

Storage

• Make sure there's plenty of space for food, including a pantry or cupboards.

• Provide sealed containers for leftovers and dry goods (optional).

Working space

Desk and chair

• A sturdy desk and comfy chair are great for guests who need to work.

• Ensure there's good lighting and easy access to power outlets.

Wi-Fi

• High-speed internet is crucial for business travelers and digital nomads.

• Consider a Wi-Fi booster if your place is big.

Accessories

• A desk lamp, some stationery and a power strip can be really handy.

Safety and accessibility

Safety features

• Install smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and a first aid kit.

• Consider a safe for valuables.

Accessibility

• If possible, make your Airbnb accessible to guests with disabilities. This can include ramps, wide doorways and grab bars in bathrooms.

Insider Tips

Tip #1 Boost your space with smart storage

Beds with drawers, wall hooks for coats, pegboards in the kitchen and stackable containers can all help. Plus, offering guests a designated spot for their personal items, like a luggage rack, keeps things tidy.

Tip #2 Pick space-saving furniture with big functionality

Think sofa beds, folding tables or ottomans with hidden storage compartments. These versatile pieces allow you to transform the layout of your space according to your guests' needs.

Tip #3 Use mirrors to make your Airbnb feel bigger and brighter

Mirrored doors or panels expand rooms visually. Combine different lighting types, like wall sconces and adjustable floor lamps, to enhance space without crowding surfaces.

Tip #4 Go minimal in your Airbnb for a roomier feel

Pick multi-use furniture and declutter often, keeping only essentials. Fewer decorations and items mean more focus on key features. Add storage, as needed and clean regularly to keep spaces open and inviting.

Tip #5 Add personality with decor

Choose wall art that reflects the location or theme of your Airbnb, using rugs to add warmth and comfort especially in living rooms and bedrooms and incorporating real or artificial plants to liven up the space and make it feel more inviting.

Tip #6 Optimize your Airbnb's outdoor areas

Add foldable seating and weatherproof cushions for comfort. Include a small table or grill for meals and use vertical space with hanging plants. A cozy outdoor spot boosts your listing's appeal.

Plan, Furnish and Shine!

Furnishing your Airbnb takes time and planning, but it's worth the effort. A well-furnished space can attract more guests, earn better reviews and increase your rental income. Keep your goals in mind, understand your audience and use your budget wisely.

Don’t forget to share updates with your previous and potential guests to keep them excited about your space. High-quality pictures and social media updates can go a long way in showcasing your improvements.

Need help growing your property rental business? Request a free demo to find out how Hostaway helps property managers all over the world expand their businesses.