Beyond Cleaning: 12 Easy Touches That Make London Airbnb Guests Feel at Home - Tips From a Superhost

As a London Airbnb host and superhost for years, I have learned something important. Cleanliness is the foundation, but it is the little thoughtful extras that really make guests feel welcome. These are the touches that turn a decent stay into one they rave about in reviews. The best part? Most of them cost very little but create a huge impact.

Here are some of my favourite ideas to try, based on what guests have loved most.

1. A Personal Note

It does not have to be long. A simple handwritten thank you on nice paper, signed with your name or your cleaner’s name, instantly feels warm and personal. We sometimes make a batch in advance so they are ready to leave out with no extra effort. Guests notice this and it always gets a smile.

2. Snacks

Free food makes everyone happy. Buying snacks in bulk keeps it low-cost, but to guests it feels like a big treat. Even just a few crisps, biscuits, or chocolates after a long journey helps them feel taken care of.

3. An Umbrella (It’s London After All)

London weather is famously unpredictable. A spare umbrella by the door says, “We’ve thought of you.” Guests are often so grateful for this one, and it is surprisingly inexpensive to keep stocked.

4. A Proper Guidebook

Yes, you can send them a digital link, but having a printed guidebook too makes it so much nicer. Highlight the closest grocery shops, transport links, and your genuine recommendations for food, coffee, and walks. Make it personal. Guests love to know where you would go, not just the generic tourist spots.

5. Phone Chargers and Universal Plugs

We have all forgotten ours at some point. Providing a few chargers and adaptors saves guests a lot of stress. Hosts sometimes worry they will go missing, but in reality that is rare. The gratitude you get when a guest finds a charger waiting for them far outweighs the occasional loss.

6. A Generous Coffee and Tea Bar

Do not just put out one or two teabags. Go all out. Stock different teas, coffee, hot chocolate, maybe some syrups if you have space. If you can stretch to an espresso machine, guests will love you for it. It costs very little but feels luxurious.

7. Bathroom Extras

A little shelf with spare toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, or sanitary products can be a lifesaver. Guests do not usually take much, but when someone has forgotten something, they are so thankful it is there.

8. Enough Dishes and Cutlery

Do not make the mistake of matching numbers too tightly. Two guests need more than two plates. People do not want to constantly wash dishes on holiday. Stock generously, and it saves a lot of irritation.

9. A Clean Guarantee

An immaculate home is non-negotiable. If guests walk into dust or grime, nothing else will make up for it. One thing we like to do is offer a “clean guarantee” so guests know that if something is not right, we will fix it quickly at no charge. It gives them peace of mind and shows you care.

10. Extra Pillows and Blankets

These rarely get used, but when they do, they can make or break a stay. A guest who cannot sleep because of a bad pillow will remember it for all the wrong reasons. A choice of pillows and a couple of spare blankets solves that problem before it even starts.

11. Clear and Kind Communication

Problems will happen sometimes. What matters most is how you respond. When guests bring up an issue, treat it as an opportunity to show how much you care. Listen, solve it, and always stay kind. Guests really notice when you are responsive and helpful.

12. A Human Touch

At the end of the day, guests can tell when a host has genuinely thought about their experience. Whether it is a warm note, a little snack, or that extra charger, what matters most is the human effort behind it.

Why This Matters

Running both a cleaning business and hosting in South London has shown me that details are everything. A spotless space is the foundation, but those thoughtful extras are the secret to great reviews and repeat bookings.

You don't need to implement everything! Just try one of these tips that sounds

Need help turning your Airbnb into a five-star stay? Best Home Sercies is here to support you every step of the way.