9 Simple Ways to Elevate Your Airbnb Rental in 2025

Relatively easy upgrades that will elevate your short-term rental without breaking the bank.

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1. Replace light fixtures

New light fixtures can make a space look updated and unique, and statement-piece light fixtures can completely transform the vibe of an entire room

Don’t forget about lightbulbs. Avoid harsh, cool bulbs and opt for warm lights instead – we typically buy 2700k soft white lightbulbs. This will make your space feel bright and inviting.

2. Switch Out Electrical Outlet Covers/Light Switch Covers

Replace those yellowing switch plates with bright white ones – or opt for something fun like these blingy outlet covers or this unique mountain light switch plate.

If your switches and outlets are yellowing or in bad shape, you can buy covers like these that will make everything look brand new without needing to replace and re-wire the entire electrical outlet.

3. Replace or Add Cabinet Pulls/Knobs

Adding or switching out cabinet hardware is a cost-effective way to update the look and feel of a room.

The style and finish of the hardware can dramatically impact the overall aesthetic, adding a modern touch, enhancing functionality, and giving a space a refreshed appearance without major renovations. Think of it as picking out “jewelry” for your cabinets.

If you’re looking for unique styles, Hobby Lobby has a lot of great options, many of which are “dupes” for knobs and pulls from high-end retailers.

4. Adjust Your Curtains

Curtains that are too short or too long can make a room look tacky. Always measure for the correct length. There should not be a gap between the floor and your curtain, but they should not be bunched up at the bottom either.

Go as high and as wide with your curtains as possible to make the window and the room look larger. Always measure for length. You want to hang your curtain rod 1 inch above the curtain length (ex: rod for 96″ curtains should be hung at 97″).

5. Capitalize on First Impressions

While you may not always showcase the exterior of your home in your listing photos, think about your guests’ first impressions when they drive up to your house and walk in the door.

You can make this first impression warm and inviting with a few simple upgrades. Painting the front door a bold, eye-catching color can instantly boost curb appeal while adding vibrant flowers in planters or hanging a seasonal wreath adds charm and personality.

Additionally, upgrading the house numbers, adding a new doormat, or incorporating outdoor lighting can further elevate the look. These small yet thoughtful touches create a welcoming atmosphere that makes a positive first impression.

6. Add in Layering on Your Beds and Couches

When styling beds or couches, incorporate different patterns, fabrics, and pillow sizes to create a multi-dimensional look.

This layered look makes your sleeping and lounge areas cozy, inviting, and aesthetically pleasing in photos (and in person!).

Potential guests will be much more enticed to book a place with beds that are styled with a multi-dimensional look vs. a place that has mattresses plopped onto metal frames with thin comforters and a couple of flat pillows.

You know you’re doing it right when you have positive reviews mentioning how comfortable the beds are.

7. Make Functional Items Look Decorative

Find creative ways to make ugly functional items look pretty and even double as decor.

• Decant your hand soap and dish soap into pretty dispensers. Use metal laundry tins to hold laundry supplies.
• Cover your tissue boxes with decorative cubes.
• Chunky lamps can elevate a space and make a room feel more inviting.
• Use baskets or blanket ladders to display your extra blankets in a cozy way.
• Find fun coasters for guests to put their drinks on.
• Buy a cute cutting board or cheese board you can display in your kitchen.
• Hide your Wifi equipment in a decorative console.
• Add in a fun ottoman that can double as decor and extra seating.  

8. Minimize Clutter

We don’t often think about the need to declutter a short-term rental, but over time as more guests stay and buy “extras” or leave things behind, closets and cabinets can start to get cluttered. Take time every so often to organize and get rid of any excess clutter.

When decorating, opt for large, statement decor pieces and try to avoid having an excessive amount of small trinkets, especially out on surfaces.

Minimizing clutter offers several benefits. It creates a more calming and organized environment, reducing stress and anxiety that often arise from a chaotic, disorganized space. Plus having less “stuff” makes cleaning easier and more efficient.

9. Do a Deep Clean

Whether you hire someone or do it yourself, make sure you are doing a deep clean of your property every few months.

Address areas that may not always get attention – think baseboards, under furniture, above the refrigerator, inside vents, window tracks, etc.

That rounds out our list of easy ways to elevate your Airbnb. Pick a couple of action items from this list and make a plan for how and when you will execute them. Happy hosting!