Our team at Lake is committed to providing a clean and safe environment for all guests. Our Cleaning and Sanitation Policy outlines the measures taken to ensure the cleanliness and hygiene of each rental property in accordance with industry standards and best practices. 

Hosts are responsible for maintaining a clean and welcoming place for guests. Hosts may conduct cleaning themselves or hire a cleaning service.

Expectations

Expectations of Guests: We also emphasize the importance of guest participation in upholding cleanliness standards and encourage open communication for any concerns.

Expectations of Hosts: Compliance with local health regulations is non-negotiable, and we expect all hosts to meet our stringent safety standards. 

Developing a Cleaning Process

Maintaining a clean and inviting space is paramount, especially when preparing for guests who value both comfort and hygiene. Are you ready to upgrade your cleaning routine with effective steps that maximize safety and thoroughness? Let’s dive into a straightforward approach to tidying up that not only covers the basics but also ensures a spotless and welcoming environment.

The key to a successful cleaning process is methodical and includes specific stages, starting from general cleaning to detailed sanitizing and resetting the room for the next use. This approach isn’t just about making a space look good—it’s about setting higher standards that contribute to the overall well-being of anyone who enters your space.

Summary of the 5-Step Cleaning Process

It’s not just about being squeaky clean; it’s about ensuring a safe and inviting area for your next guests—and don’t you worry, it’s a breeze once you get the hang of it.

Step 1: Prepare
Before you or your cleaning crew jump in:

• Check local guidelines for safety wait times post-departure.
• Consider a booking buffer for a thorough cleaning spree.

Step 2: Clean
Grab those gloves, and let’s get down to business:

• Tackle all surfaces from floors to ceilings.
• Removing dirt is the name of the game.

Step 3: Sanitize
After cleaning comes the superhero—sanitization:

• Focus on high-touch zones: doorknobs, switches, and handles.
• Use approved disinfectants for that germ-free sheen.

Step 4: Check
Don your detective hat:

• Scan each room meticulously.
• Keep an eagle eye out for any missed spots.

Step 5: Reset
Finally, set the stage for a warm welcome:

• Restock essentials and fluff those pillows.
• Leave your space looking better than ever.

A clean space is not just pleasant; it’s peace of mind for you and your guests.

Step 1: Prepare for Safer Cleaning

Before diving into the nitty-gritty of giving your place a sparkle, let’s talk prep! Prioritizing health while scrubbing down surfaces is the way to go.

• Let Fresh Air In: Cracking open windows and doors isn’t just good for a cool breeze; it helps clear the air as you clean! A good ventilation system or fans also keeps that air moving.
• Gather Your Gear: Choose your cleaning arsenal wisely. Not all heroes wear capes, but they do wield EPA-registered sanitizers and disinfectants like a pro!
• Wisdom on Warnings: Peek at those product labels! It’s essential to understand the ingredients and instructions to ensure you’re using cleaning agents effectively and safely.
• Hand Hygiene: Roll up those sleeves and scrub your hands with soap and water for a solid 20 seconds. Hand sanitizer? Sure, if it’s got at least 60% alcohol.
• Dress the Part: Don disposable gloves and a face mask to keep you and the surfaces you’re cleaning protected.
• Trash Talk: Got garbage? Toss it out! A clean bin with a fresh bag means less mess later.
• Linens and Laundry: Round up all those used towels and beddings. Just remember, shaking them spreads germs, so keep it calm and carry them gently.
• Power Down: Unplug your appliances for safety, and hey, it saves energy too!

Remember, suiting up with new protective gear before you get down to business isn’t just stylish; it’s smart. Knowing how to wield your cleaning products can be your superpower, so always follow those safety guidelines to the letter.

Step 2: Clean Dust and Debris

Let’s tackle the next task on our list: getting rid of all that dust and debris. Here’s how you can master the art of a truly clean sweep:

1. Begin with Dusting:
   • Use a duster or a clean cloth to wipe away dust from all surfaces.
   • Start from higher surfaces and work your way down.
   • Don’t forget to clean the tops of doors, fans, and light fixtures!
2. Floor Time:
   • Sweep hard floors to collect any loose soil or impurities.
   • Vacuum carpets to arrest the sneaky dust bunnies.
3. Wiping Surfaces:
   • Mix water with a squirt of soap for an effective cleaning solution.
   • Grab a sturdy sponge or cloth, dip it into the soapy water, and start wiping off hard surfaces.
   • Pay attention to stubborn stains—show them who’s boss!
4. Attention to Detail:
   • Stains on countertops and tables? Use scrub brushes to gently but firmly remove them.
   • For an extra sparkle, use a clean, damp cloth to rinse the areas after you’ve dealt with the stains.
5. Mopping Up:
   • If you’re mopping, save it for the last so you don’t re-dirty the floors.
   • Dance your way from the farthest corner to the door, so you don’t box yourself in.
6. The Finishing Touch:
   • Use paper towels to dry any wet areas after cleaning.
   • Replace any freshly laundered linens—if you haven’t handled them yet, remember, wash your hands first!

Remember, always wash your hands before and after you tackle the cleaning, and try not to touch your face whilst you’re in the midst of the dust busting.

Step 3: Sanitize with Disinfectant

Here’s how to get those pesky germs out of the picture after your usual scrub down!

• Spritz and Sweep the Bugs Away: Once you’ve got your surfaces sparkling, it’s time for a disinfectant spray down. Think of the places everyone’s hands go—doorknobs and light switches need your attention here.
• Watch the Clock: It’s a waiting game that pays off. Your disinfectant has a ‘wet contact’ time—it’s your new secret weapon against invisible nasties like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Check the label, and give it the time it needs to do its thing.
• Let It Breathe: No towel drying—let air do the work. If it stays damp for the time stated, consider those microorganisms taken care of.
• Play It Safe: Remember those labels? They’re like a little safety net, making sure you’re using everything as you should. No shortcuts here!

Step 4: Check your room-by-room checklists

Alright, did you catch everything? Here’s a quick rundown to make sure your spaces are spick and span:

• Surfaces: Are they gleaming? Get a second glance at all those places hands love to land. Don’t let doorknobs, light switches, and remotes feel left out; they crave a good sanitizing too!
• Fabrics: Peek at the carpets, rugs, and other soft spots. A thorough vacuum and spot-clean make them feel brand-new.
• Counters & Hard Spaces: Kitchen, bathroom, you name it—if it’s a counter, it needs a once-over.
• Electronics: Give gadgets a gentle wipe—phones, tablets, and keyboards can be germ magnets.
• Checks: Missing anything? Now’s the perfect time to refill, repair, or replace those little essentials.

Remember, double-checking is your secret weapon to a flawless hosting experience!

Step 5: Make the Space Welcoming for the Next Visitor

After you’ve scrubbed and sanitized to perfection, it’s time to get things in order for that incoming guest who’s eagerly awaiting a top-notch stay.

Finish up with these touch-ups:

• Wrap up your cleaning session: Before your space welcomes its new occupant, ensure your cleaning tools have been thoroughly washed or safely tossed. That microfiber cloth that did wonders on the countertops? Give it a good laundry cycle on the highest heat it can handle.
• Cleaning gear sayonara: Gloves and masks served you well, right? Now’s the time to discard single-use items and properly cleanse those you can reuse.
• Hand hygiene is key: Let those palms embrace soap and water for a solid 20 seconds—sing that ‘Happy Birthday’ tune twice, and you’re all set. Or, in a pinch, a sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol will do the trick.
• Do a final sweep with your eyes: Imagine slipping into the shoes of your guest—does the room spark joy and invite them to relax?
• Equip your guests with germ busters: Folks love to have the power to keep things tidy on their own, so why not leave a little cleaning kit for them? Include essentials such as sanitizer, disposable wipes, and that extra roll of toilet paper.
• Stock up for your next cleaning adventure: Now’s the time to refill your arsenal, from sprays to dusters, and, of course, making sure nothing’s past its prime.

Now, take a breath—you’ve set the stage for a stellar stay. Ready to do it all over again? You’ve got this!