POLISHED UP

Cleaning Company

Cleaner Standards

How we work, solve problems and leave every property guest-ready.

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Our aim is simple: leave every property clean, calm, well-presented and ready for the next guest. These standards are here to help you work confidently and independently — not to make the job feel rigid.
Think aheadSpot issues early rather than waiting until the end of the clean.
Use initiativeTry a sensible, safe solution before escalating.
Leave it guest-readyCleanliness matters, but presentation matters too.

01. Before you call: think creatively

If something is not going to plan, first ask yourself: “Is there a safe, sensible way I can solve this?”

We want cleaners who can think, adapt and solve small problems — while knowing when something genuinely needs management support.
  1. Check the Property Guide. The answer may already be there.
  2. Think through practical options. What can you safely do with the time, equipment and supplies available?
  3. Consider the impact. Will your solution protect the property, stay hygienic and still leave things guest-ready?
  4. If there is risk, cost, damage, access trouble or genuine uncertainty, call. We would always rather you ask than guess when the stakes are high.
Example — laundry taking too long:
If the dryer is running behind, think through sensible options. Could the remaining drying be managed at a laundrette as part of the agreed linen process? Is an item only slightly damp and safe to finish carefully with an iron, provided the fabric care allows it and there is no risk of scorching? Is there spare linen available instead? If you are genuinely unsure, please call.
Do not improvise with electrical faults, gas, damaged appliances, unknown chemicals, unsafe access or anything that could cause injury or property damage. Call us.

02. Be reliable & punctual

  • Arrive within the time stated in the Property Guide or job message.
  • If you are delayed, tell us as soon as you know — not once the arrival time has already passed.
  • Allow enough time to complete the clean properly, including beds, linen, photos, final checks and any agreed restocking.
  • If you think the clean may overrun, flag it early so we can help manage the situation.

03. Follow the guide, not memory

Every property is slightly different. Always check the relevant Property Guide before or at the start of the clean.

  • Check arrival time, parking, access and linen arrangements.
  • Follow any property-specific bed layouts, consumables, bin instructions and presentation requirements.
  • Do not assume one Airbnb works the same way as another.
  • Access codes are confidential and should never be shared with anyone who is not authorised.

04. Clean first, then style

A beautiful presentation never replaces a proper clean. Complete the cleaning standard first, then add the finishing touches.

  • No visible hair, dust, crumbs, smears or obvious marks.
  • Mirrors, taps and shiny surfaces should be streak-free.
  • Beds should look smooth, balanced and intentionally made.
  • Bathrooms should look dry, fresh and ready to use.
  • Furniture, cushions and curtains should look deliberately arranged rather than simply left where they were.

05. The Polished Up finishing touches

Small touches can make a property feel noticeably more cared for. You do not need to overdo it — aim for simple, neat and consistent.

Toilet roll folds

A clean point, fan or simple hotel-style fold can make the bathroom feel more finished.

Hand towels

Fold or hang them neatly so they look intentional rather than simply placed on the rail.

Bed towels

Arrange towels neatly on the bed where appropriate. Keep the design clean and practical rather than overly complicated.

Cushions & throws

Style cushions evenly and place decorative throws so the room looks inviting and balanced.

Need inspiration? TikTok can be a useful place to look for simple hotel-style towel folds, toilet roll designs and Airbnb presentation ideas. Keep anything you try hygienic, quick to reproduce and suitable for the property.

06. Linen & laundry

  • Keep clean and dirty linen completely separate.
  • Check bedding and towels for stains, damage, odours or anything unusual.
  • Follow each property's own linen-management instructions.
  • Think ahead about wash and drying times — do not wait until the end of the clean to realise linen will not be ready.
  • If offsite linen management is part of the property setup, make sure nothing gets mixed between properties.

07. Consumables & stock

  • Check the Property Guide for the exact stock requirements.
  • Restock only the agreed quantities unless instructed otherwise.
  • Keep cupboards tidy and report when stock is running low.
  • Do not wait until stock is completely finished before telling us.

08. If something is damaged or unusual

  • Take a clear photo.
  • Do not hide damage, staining, missing items or maintenance problems.
  • Tell us as soon as possible, especially if it may affect the next guest.
  • If you accidentally cause damage, report it immediately so it can be dealt with properly.
Good reporting protects everyone. A quick message at the time is far easier to deal with than finding out after the guest arrives.

09. Keys, access & security

  • Return keys exactly where instructed.
  • Do not share lockbox, alarm or access codes.
  • Make sure windows, doors and gates are secured before leaving.
  • Check any property-specific heating, lighting or appliance instructions before you leave.

10. Photos & completion

A clean is not considered fully complete until the final checks and reporting are done.

  • Complete the turnover checklist.
  • Send clear completion photos of the required rooms and beds.
  • Report any issues or follow-up actions.
  • Make sure the property is genuinely ready for the next guest before leaving.

11. Communication with clients & guests

  • Be warm, polite and professional if you meet a host or guest.
  • Do not agree changes to pricing, scope or future work directly with a Polished Up client.
  • If a client asks for additional work, let them know you will pass the request to management.
  • Do not discuss other clients, cleaners or private business information.

12. The final 5-minute check

Before you leave, stop and walk through the property as if you were the guest arriving for the first time.

  • Look: Is anything visibly out of place?
  • Touch: Are surfaces actually clean and dry?
  • Smell: Does the property smell fresh and neutral?
  • Check: Beds, towels, bins, bathrooms, kitchen, lights, heating, windows, doors and keys.
The standard is not simply “cleaned”. The standard is: ready for the guest to walk in now.
Open Turnover Checklist → Back to Cleaner Hub
Polished Up Cleaning Company · Cleaner Standards