Imagine this: you walk into an apartment that smells fresh the moment you open the door, promising a hassle-free stay. You’re in the hallway, where nothing gets in the way – everything is in its place. Is it a hotel? Nope – it’s your short-term rental apartment, thoughtfully prepared. The real question is: how do you make sure your guest never wants to leave… or at the very least, never gives you less than five stars?
1. The Hallway – First Impressions Last Forever
Your guests will enter this space first – and no, you don’t need a red carpet. But a decent doormat from IKEA? Absolutely. Nearby, have a solid mop, iron, ironing board – not because you expect guests to clean, but to show you’ve thought about practical comfort. A first aid kit, fire blanket, fire extinguisher – these aren’t Halloween props, they’re proof you take safety seriously.
Should you add a business card holder? Yes. After all, someone should know who owns this perfect place.
2. The Living Room – Your Showpiece
Speaking of business cards – the living room should shine. Go for a simple, modern design. A sofa that invites guests to relax after travel… or fall asleep after a glass of prosecco. A smart TV is no longer a luxury – it’s a must. So is fast Wi-Fi – without it, there’s no booking.com, Netflix or Instagram story.
A sticker with the Wi-Fi password? Small gesture, huge impact.
3. The Kitchen – The Heart of the Apartment
Guests visiting with family or a partner may want to cook something simple. Or maybe it’s a group of friends on a city break who plan a “DIY breakfast” vibe. Let them do it in comfort.
Your kitchen needs proper equipment. Not just a kettle and coffee maker – those are basics. Add a full set of pots (at least 3), colander, cutting boards, mixing bowls, two different pans, even a tea container – because not all tea comes in neat sachets.
Don’t forget dishes – they should match, be complete and as clean as your booking account after peak season. At least six of each: large, small and deep plates, cutlery, wine and vodka glasses, mugs, tumblers. This isn’t a bar, but it should feel like you could host an ambassador here.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Plates | Large, small, deep – minimum 6 each |
| Pots | At least 3-piece set |
| Pans | Two sizes – breakfast & dinner |
| Wine/vodka glasses | Guests want to celebrate – let them do it in style |
| Wine opener | Most commonly forgotten item – guests don’t want to use a knife |
| Tea container | Because cardboard boxes aren’t decor |
4. The Bathroom – No Room for Compromise
The bathroom is a dealbreaker. A guest might forgive squeaky doors, but not a worn-out toilet brush or a 90s hairdryer. This space must feel fresh, clean and practical.
Get a drying rack (yes, it’s useful!), quality towels – two sizes ideally, a hairdryer, trash bin, soap and shower gel dispensers (no loose bottles!). Bonus points: a bath mat – the post-shower version of a pillow chocolate.
5. The Bedroom – Building the Perfect Bed
“Almost comfortable” doesn’t cut it. The mattress should be clean, protected with a pad and topped with a proper fitted sheet (or flat sheet if you’re using sofas). Hotel-grade pillows and duvets are a win – durable and breathable. Two pillows per person? Great. Three? They’ll love you.
Bed linen should match – if you go for white, make sure everything is white. If gray – stick to one tone. Nothing ruins the vibe like a floral pillowcase next to minimalist decor.
Towels? At least one large and one small per person. Make them feel like they’re in a hotel, not on a survival
| Item | Tip |
|---|---|
| Pillows | Minimum 2 per person – hotel-style |
| Bed linen | Matching sets, washed hot |
| Mattress pad | For hygiene and protection |
| Towels | 1 large and 1 small per guest |
| Bath mat | Improves comfort and absorbs water |
6. The Balcony – The Icing on the Cake
Have a balcony? It’s your secret weapon. A small table and four chairs can make all the difference. Guests will sit with coffee and… click! Photo with #relax hashtag. No need for a jungle of plants – even budget IKEA furniture can create a vibe that turns into bookings.
7. The Little Things That Matter
Details aren’t just extras – in short-term rentals, they make the experience. Fiber optic internet is no longer a luxury – it’s a basic need. Stickers with Wi-Fi passwords, house rules, business card holders – they show you mean business. Guests know where they are, who to contact, and that you’re a pro.
Final Thoughts
Preparing an apartment for short-term rental is much more than a fresh coat of paint and a few throw pillows. It’s a well-thought-out process combining functionality, aesthetics and meticulous attention to detail. Every element – from the mop in the hallway to wine glasses in the kitchen to crisp towels in the bathroom – creates the guest experience that leads to reviews, ratings, and repeat bookings.
To succeed in this field, you can’t leave anything to chance. Guests aren’t just looking for a place to sleep – they want the comfort of a hotel with the freedom of a home. So prepare your apartment for anything: a romantic weekend, a family trip, or friends sharing wine on the balcony.
Because short-term rental is not just about the space. It’s about the impression – and you’ve got all the tools to make it unforgettable.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
You don’t have to – but you should. This list wasn’t made for fun – it comes from real guest complaints about missing corkscrews, scissors or hairdryers. You don’t need luxury brands, just functional, clean, complete gear. Minimalism is a style, not an excuse.
Yes – if they’re in excellent condition. If your pan is older than your high school diploma and your towels are “family heirlooms” – then no. Guests shouldn’t feel like they’ve stepped into a hand-me-down flat. It should feel like home – just premium.
After every booking. No exceptions. Your guests don’t want to sleep under sheets used by strangers. Wash hot, iron, store clean – freshness smells like success.
Not mandatory – but it will earn you better reviews and loyal guests. These days, coffee is a ritual. Want to go further? Leave some pods or fresh grounds. That’s how you create atmosphere.
Absolutely. It doesn’t need to be a boho garden. Two chairs and a table are enough for morning coffee or a wine night. If you have a balcony and don’t use it – you’re wasting potential.
Yes. Period. Guests don’t want a digital detox – unless it’s a forest cabin marketed that way. Even then… someone will ask about Wi-Fi. Fast, stable internet is a basic like hot water and toilets.
Details. Wi-Fi password stickers, sleek soap dispensers, soft bedding, IKEA wine glasses, a first aid kit, mop, iron. Guests notice more than you think – and remember the little things. Show them you know what you’re doing, that you run this as a business – not just a spare flat.
Not necessarily. Functional gear from IKEA or Media Expert is better than overpaying for a logo. Focus on comfort, durability and aesthetics. If the coffee machine works and looks good – no one will care if it cost 200 or 1200 zł.
It happens – which is why you want solid, replaceable items. It’s better to replace an IKEA pan than import one from Italy. Always have spares: glasses, towels, covers. You won’t be caught short between bookings.
Yes – if you’re well-organized and use the right tools. Have someone handle cleaning, laundry, and quick fixes. The apartment must be fully equipped for self-service: keys, rules, Wi-Fi, essentials – all ready before arrival. Your reward? Fewer calls, more referrals.