If you host an Airbnb or vacation rental on South Padre Island, your turnover cleaning directly impacts your reviews, your Superhost status, and your booking rate. Guests notice cleanliness more than any other factor, and SPI properties face unique challenges that mainland rentals do not. This checklist is designed specifically for South Padre Island hosts.

Kitchen Turnover Checklist

The kitchen is where guests judge cleanliness most harshly. A single dirty dish or greasy stovetop can tank a review.

Wash, dry, and put away all dishes, utensils, and cookware
Wipe all countertops and backsplash
Clean stovetop, drip pans, and oven exterior
Clean microwave interior and exterior
Wipe refrigerator exterior and check interior for previous guest items
Clean sink and faucet -- remove water spots
Wipe all cabinet fronts and handles
Empty and reline all trash cans
Clean dishwasher interior (run empty cycle if needed)
Sweep and mop floor -- pay attention to sand in corners
Restock dish soap, sponge, trash bags, and paper towels
Check all appliances are working (coffee maker, toaster, etc.)

Bathroom Turnover Checklist

Bathrooms are the second most inspected area by guests. On SPI, humidity makes mold prevention critical.

Scrub toilet bowl, base, and behind the tank
Clean shower/tub -- scrub tile grout, remove soap scum
Clean glass shower door or curtain -- replace if moldy
Wipe sink, faucet, and countertop
Clean mirror -- streak-free
Wipe all cabinet fronts and handles
Empty and reline trash can
Mop floor -- check grout for mold
Set out fresh towels: bath towels, hand towels, washcloths
Restock toilet paper (at least 2 rolls per bathroom), tissues, hand soap
Check exhaust fan works -- run it to reduce humidity
Inspect for mold on ceiling, around tub, and in grout lines

Bedroom Turnover Checklist

Strip all bedding -- sheets, pillowcases, mattress protector
Check mattress for stains -- spot clean or replace protector
Make bed with fresh linens -- hospital corners, pillows fluffed
Dust all surfaces: nightstands, dresser, headboard
Clean mirrors
Vacuum carpet or mop hard floors -- check under bed for sand
Empty closets of any previous guest items
Wipe closet shelves and hangers
Check all lamps and light switches work
Vacuum or wipe window blinds

Living Area Turnover Checklist

Vacuum all upholstered furniture -- check cushion crevices for debris and sand
Wipe all hard surfaces: coffee table, end tables, TV stand, shelving
Clean TV screen
Check remote controls work -- wipe with disinfectant
Vacuum carpet or mop floors
Clean sliding glass door tracks -- these collect sand constantly on SPI
Wipe glass doors and windows -- remove salt air film
Dust ceiling fan blades
Straighten decor, books, and magazines

Outdoor and Patio Checklist (SPI-Specific)

Most SPI rentals have a balcony, patio, or deck. These areas need attention because they face direct exposure to salt air and sand.

Sweep patio or balcony thoroughly
Wipe down patio furniture and railings
Clean outdoor grill if provided
Shake out or replace outdoor mat
Check for sand on all outdoor surfaces
Wipe balcony glass railing or partition
Ensure outdoor lighting works

Linen Change Protocol

Linens are where many hosts fall short. Guests can tell the difference between fresh and simply remade bedding.

All sheets, pillowcases, and mattress protectors must be laundered between every guest
All towels replaced with fresh, laundered sets
Decorative pillows and throws should be inspected and laundered regularly
Use commercial-grade detergent and high-heat drying for sanitization
Iron or steam sheets for a crisp, hotel-quality finish
Fold towels consistently -- choose a fold style and use it every time

Restocking Checklist

Running out of basics is a common guest complaint. Check and restock every item on this list:

Toilet paper (2+ rolls per bathroom)
Paper towels (1+ roll in kitchen)
Hand soap in kitchen and all bathrooms
Dish soap and sponge
Trash bags for all trash cans
Coffee, sugar, and creamer (if provided)
Shampoo and conditioner (if provided)
Body wash or bar soap (if provided)
Welcome card or guest information booklet

Photo Verification

Always photograph the property after cleaning. This protects you and reassures remote property managers.

Take a photo of each room from the doorway
Photograph the made bed close-up
Photograph the bathroom vanity and shower
Photograph the kitchen counters and appliances
Send all photos to the host or property manager before guest check-in

SPI-Specific Considerations

South Padre Island presents unique challenges that mainland cleaners may not anticipate:

Sand removal: Sand gets everywhere on SPI. Pay extra attention to floor corners, sliding door tracks, carpet edges, and furniture crevices.
Salt air film: Windows and glass surfaces develop a salt film from ocean air. Use a vinegar-based solution for streak-free results.
Humidity and mold: SPI humidity can cause mold in bathrooms, closets, and under sinks. Inspect these areas at every turnover and address any growth immediately.
Spring Break prep: Before Spring Break season, do a full deep clean of every rental. The volume and intensity of guest usage during this period requires a strong baseline.

When to Hire a Professional

Many SPI hosts start by doing their own turnovers, but as bookings increase, the time commitment becomes unsustainable. A professional turnover cleaning service handles the entire checklist above, plus linen laundering and restocking, in 2 to 3 hours. That frees you to focus on guest communication, pricing optimization, and growing your rental business.

The Complete Airbnb Turnover Cleaning Checklist for South Padre Island Hosts