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Key Takeaways:
– Extend the durability of your bedding by using a mattress and a washable pillow protector.
– To make it look luxe and hygienic, use all-white and bleach-safe linens. These ease the laundry process and display cleanliness to guests.
– Keep at least two to three extra sets of linens/beddings for each bed.
– You can apply easy styling tips, like making tight hospital corners and steaming the wrinkles out. This can elevate the look of the bed, giving an effortless hotel-like feel.
Did you know that cleanliness and hygiene are some of the top factors for achieving a 5-star review on Airbnb? This is the first thing guests notice upon entering your property, and the bed acts as the centerpiece of this first impression. That is why it is important to learn how to make a bed for Airbnb as a successful host. Knowing a few quick and handy tips helps you transform your Airbnb rooms into a luxurious and comfortable sanctuary.
Whether you want a high-end hotel look or quick turnover tips for busy days, we have you covered. Scroll down to discover eight methods on how to make a bed for Airbnb. Learn about layering the mattress, styling it, and protecting the bedding for your guests’ best experience.
1. Hotel-Style Triple Sheeting (Crisp and Sanitary)
The triple sheeting method increases your chances of having five-star reviews as it aims to provide a sanitary and clean setup for each guest. You can follow these steps on how to triple-sheet a bed for Airbnb guests to ease the process of maintenance and protect your duvet:
- First, create a protected and comfortable base for the bed’s frame. Use a full mattress encasement as a first line of defense against spills and pests.
- On top of that, add a washable mattress protector. This will extend the life of your chosen Airbnb mattress, adding a layer that is easy to clean.
- Put a new fitted sheet taut over the mattress and make sure it is wrinkle-free. This will create a smooth surface that looks fresh and professional.
- On the fitted sheet, put another sheet flat and then place the duvet or comforter on top of it.
- Place the second sheet over the duvet, creating a “duvet sandwich”. This is the best way to layer duvet and sheets for Airbnb, ensuring your guests do not sleep on it directly.
- Align the top edges of the duvet and the top flat sheet. Next, fold both layers back about 8 to 12 inches over the duvet.
- Neatly tuck the sides and finish with tight hospital corners for a sharp look.
- Complete the bed with two to four pillows and cover them with pillow protectors before covering them with the pillow case.
Best For: Giving a pristine and uniform look while making stain control and laundering easier.
Note: For the best results, use bleach-safe white bed linens to make sure the photographs come out attractive for online listings.
2. Duvet and Cover with Envelope Closure (Fast Turnovers)
During peak tourist seasons and busy days, hosts need faster methods for setting up rooms for each guest. This method helps you create a cozy and stylish environment without following the complex process of triple sheeting. Follow these steps to learn how to make an Airbnb bed fast for turnovers:
- After securing your mattress with a protector and a fitted sheet, you can decide whether to add a top flat sheet.
- While a top sheet adds a traditional layer of comfort, many hosts in warmer climates or those following European style skip it. The guest simply sleeps directly under the covered duvet.
- To get the duvet insert into its cover quickly, try the “burrito method.” Turn the duvet cover inside out and lay it flat on the bed. Place your duvet insert on top, aligning the corners.
- Starting from the closed end, roll both the cover and the insert up together like a burrito.
- Once rolled, reach into the cover’s opening, grab one end, and pull it over the roll, unrolling it as you go.
- Give the duvet a good shake to settle the insert evenly inside the cover. Smooth it out and lightly tuck the sides for a clean but relaxed look.
- Finish with two sleeping pillows and two matching pillow shams that coordinate with the duvet cover for a polished, cohesive aesthetic.
Best For: Mid-range properties where hosts must meet the requirements of back-to-back bookings.
Note: Keep at least two or three extra duvets for easier maintenance and quicker turnover. This means you can use one on the bed, one in the laundry, and an extra one for resetting the room.
3. Minimalist “Speed Reset” (Budget and Time Saver)
For hosts that are managing properties in popular vacation destinations or those located in warmer climates, this method is a necessity. In this, you use lightweight, thin, and quick-drying fabrics to reduce the time spent doing laundry. This also reduces the cost of extra utility without compromising guest comfort and cleanliness. Follow these steps for a faster hotel bed setup:
- Start by using a mattress protector and top it off with a clean fitted sheet made of percale material.
- Place a flat sheet over the fitted sheet and fold it neatly on all sides. You can use pointed hospital corners to give it a tidy appearance.
- On top of the bedding surface, keep a lightweight quilt or coverlet for easy washing and drying.
- Use clean covers to keep two standard sleeping pillows. If you want a touch of style, you can add a single lumbar accent pillow to make it more appealing.
Best For: Studio-sized listings that are budget-friendly and others that are in warmer weather, such as beach towns.
Note: While choosing the bedding, opt for textiles that are thin and made from quick-dry fabrics. You can also add a mattress topper on the mattress surface to make it comfier.
4. Hypoallergenic Setup (Allergy-Friendly)
Many travellers look for rooms free from allergens like dust mites, pollen, and pet dander. To serve their needs, follow these steps on how to prep hypoallergenic bedding for Airbnb:
- Many protectors are marketed with allergen-proof certifications and come with zips. Use these over your mattress and wash them regularly.
- Some materials with woven cotton, such as percale, trap fewer allergens. Choose them as tight-fitted sheets.
- Select a synthetic duvet insert and pillows. These serve as an alternative to down or feathers, giving the plush feel of the real down while keeping allergens at bay.
- Top the surface with a washable blanket made from cotton or a synthetic mix for extra warmth.
- Do not stack too many pillows and pile them as they will attract more dust.
Best For: People with chemical sensitivities, breathing issues, allergies, or those with kids. Guests with allergies or respiratory issues, or those with kids.
Note: While listing the property, add “hypoallergenic bedding” and “allergy-friendly” in your Airbnb description.
5. Seasonal Cozy Layer (Photo-Ready)
Change your bedding with each season to give your property an Instagram-worthy and photogenic vibe. This will attract more guests and help you get better reviews online. You can follow these steps on how to make a king bed for Airbnb photos:
- First, create a comfy base for the bed using a protector, a fitted sheet, and a flat sheet.
- Choose rich textures for the bedding and add a pop of colour strategically, and change it according to seasonal themes.
- Choose between a duvet insert vs comforter and pick them in neutral colors like cream, gray, or oatmeal. Materials like linen, matelassé, or washed cotton add visual depth and enhance the character of the room.
- Fold a colorful or textured throw blanket or bed runner and place it across the foot of the bed.
- If you are wondering how to style pillows on an Airbnb bed, you can arrange them by layering two large Euro shams (in square cases). This will go behind the two sleeping pillows, adding height and a sense of luxury.
Best For: Attracting crowds during seasonal holidays, along with offering a premium look.
Note: While buying decorative items like sham covers and throws, make sure they are removable and washable.
6. Luxury Boutique Look (Premium Feel on a Budget)
You don’t need a premium budget to give a five-star and boutique hotel feel to your guests. Including high-quality materials and strategic styling can do the trick. Follow these steps to offer a luxe feel on a budget:
- First, use premium-looking full bedding sets with a protector, fitted sheet, and a flat sheet.
- Compare high-thread-count percale vs sateen materials to see which one matches your aesthetic for subtle sheen.
- Place a light duvet insert with a matching cover on the bed. However, instead of pulling it all the way up, fold the top one-third of it down to reveal the crisp top sheet underneath.
- Drape a textured throw blanket, like a waffle knit or chunky chenille. Place it diagonally across a corner at the foot of the bed for a chic touch.
- Arrange two Euro shams behind two sleeping pillows. Finally, finish the look with a stylish bolster pillow laced in the center of the front.
Best For: “Boutique” or premium listings that seek a higher rate per night.
Note: To maintain a sophisticated aesthetic, stick to a neutral color palette and use only two or three complementary textures. (The budget may go over $100 depending on materials.)
7. Eco-Friendly/Sustainable Setup
As more travelers want sustainable options, offering an eco-friendly sleeping environment can be a game-changer for your Airbnb property. This involves using natural, organic, and responsibly sourced materials. Here is how to set up the room for eco-minded guests:
- Start with a foundation of protectors for the mattress and pillows that are made from organic cotton or bamboo. These materials ensure allergy-friendly bedding, which is breathable and grown without harsh chemicals.
- Dress the bed in organic cotton or Tencel™ Lyocell sheets. These fabrics are known for their softness, breathability, and sustainable production process.
- Choose a lightweight duvet insert made from bamboo, Tencel, or ethically sourced wool.
- Instead of a synthetic comforter, use a woven wool or organic cotton blanket for warmth that can be added or removed as needed.
- Complete the bed with two sleeping pillows with organic covers.
Best For: Hosts targeting longer stays or guests who want properties focusing on wellness and sustainability.
Note: Be sure to highlight these features in your listing by using terms like “organic cotton bedding” and “sustainably sourced materials.” The budget may go above $100 for the initial setup.
8. Family- and Pet-Friendly Setup
When hosting families with children or welcoming pets, you must focus on durability and washability. For this, you need a strict stain treatment protocol to keep the setup clean and hygienic for each guest. Follow these steps to make your Airbnb beds family and pet-friendly:
- A 100% waterproof mattress encasement works as a complete defence solution against spills and stains.
- Use a tightly woven microfiber or durable cotton percale fitted sheet. These materials do not snag easily and show minimal wear in case of frequent washing.
- Layer a flat sheet, and on top of it, use a washable quilt or a duvet with a zippered cover. Zippers are safer than buttons, which can come loose or be chewed by pets.
- Skip the decorative pillows, which can become dirty or damaged. Use two standard sleeping pillows and keep a spare set in the closet for guests who need more.
- Keep at least one extra quilt or duvet cover in a labeled bin in a closet. This lets you swap the bedding quickly if a spill or accident occurs.
Best For: Running a pet-friendly or family-focused rental.
Note: Try to use light gray or patterned beige quilts, which are excellent for hiding stray pet hair or lint between washes.
Where Can I Buy Airbnb Bed Setup Supplies?
Our eight easy yet effective tips show that you do not need complicated or expensive tools to build a luxe experience for your guests. However, you will need some bedding and mattress must-haves, along with a few essentials for a housekeeping cart setup. For this, you will need a complete Airbnb bedding checklist.
The table below details these tools with their price range and top products available online:
| Essentials and Tools | Price Range | Look For |
| Mattress protector and encasement | $20-$70 | Waterproof Mattress Protector |
| Fitted & flat sheet set, bleach-safe whites | $25-$80 | California Design Den Natural 100% Cotton Sheets |
| Duvet insert (down-alt) | $30-$90 | Bedsure Comforter Duvet Insert |
| Duvet cover or quilt/coverlet | $25-$80 | Bedsure White Duvet Cover |
| Pillow protectors (set) | $8-$25 | Utopia Set of Waterproof Pillow Protectors |
| Extra pillowcases/shams | $10-$30 | NTBAY Standard Pillow Shams |
| Fabric steamer | $20-$60 | HiLIFE Steamer for Clothes |
| Wrinkle release spray | $4-$8 | Downy Wrinkle Releaser Spray |
| Lint roller | $3-$6 | Scotch-Brite Everyday Clean Lint Roller |
| Spare linen sets (2-3 per bed) | Varies | Utopia Bedding Queen Sheet Set |
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does It Cost to Make an Airbnb Bed?
Initially, the setting up of the bed costs between $80 and $180. This cost covers quality bed sheets, protectors, pillows, and a duvet insert. For each turnover, if you do the laundry yourself, your costs for detergent and utilities will increase by about $2 to $8. However, if you use a professional linen service, it will cost you about $10 to $25 per bed change. For best value, keep two or three spare linen sets per bed for quick swaps in between guests and washing in larger batches.
How Do I Make Different Bed Types?
For King or Queen beds, always use an oversized flat sheet to make tucking in hospital corners easier. From here, complete the look with two to three pairs of pillows. When making a Twin or bunk bed, use lower-loft pillows to save space and tuck all the corners securely. Avoid bulky throws that can overwhelm the smaller frame. For a sofa bed, a quick-drying quilt or coverlet is best. Try to keep dedicated linens in a labeled bin for guest convenience. For a platform bed, ensure the bedding overhang is even on all sides to avoid it dragging on the floor. Finally, for an adjustable base, use a stretchy fitted sheet and avoid heavy layers that could restrict the bed’s movement.
What’s the Average Time to Make the Bed?
The process of making the bed, which includes fitting the sheets, placing the duvet, and arranging the pillows, takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes. To achieve a flawless and hotel-like look, spend an extra 1 to 3 minutes using a fabric steamer to smooth out any wrinkles. Before you consider the job done, take 30 to 60 seconds to photo staging the bedroom. Finally, check if everything is symmetrical and free of lint.
How Do I Keep the Bed Guest-Ready Longer?
To maintain a guest-ready bed, use both mattress and pillow protectors to guard the bedding against spills and wear. For each room, keep the fabric and colour of the linens consistent, as all-white and bleach-safe. This eases the process of washing and keeps everything looking clean. Store complete linen sets in labeled bins for each bed size for faster turnovers. Furthermore, rotate your sets regularly and replace any linens that become stained or yellowed. Lastly, before each guest’s arrival, perform a quick 15-second check to ensure a perfect presentation.
Make Your Airbnb Bed Now!
Upon following our tips on how to make a bed for Airbnb, you will be able to create a five-star experience for your guests. For a crisp and sanitary ambience, you can follow the Hotel-Style Triple Sheeting method or apply the Duvet and Cover method to make beds faster on busier days. If you want budget-friendly options, the Minimalist Speed Reset helps save your time and money. Include a Hypoallergenic Setup to take care of the needs of guests with chemical sensitivities. Finally, make your Airbnb rooms look picture-perfect for online listings and reviews by adding a seasonal cozy layer.
The best bed is one that looks inviting, feels comfortable, and works for your specific hosting style and property. So, find the method that works for your property and create a comfortable experience for every guest who walks through your door.
