Experience with Airbnb 'Damage' Claim for Regular Cleaning

I wanted to share my recent experience with Airbnb's resolution center to help other guests make informed decisions.

During my recent stay, I paid a $125 cleaning fee upfront. After check-out, the host claimed $150 in 'extra cleaning needed" see pictures. I agreed this look messy, but I believed it should be covered by regular cleaning.

So I declined and appealed because: 1. There was no actual damage to the property - just normal cleaning needs 2. The $125 cleaning fee should cover standard cleaning between guests 3. Nothing was stained, broken, or permanently affected 4. It's unreasonable to expect guests who don't have cleaning supplies to clean the room before leaving

Airbnb rejected my appeal. The most frustrating part wasn't even the decision itself, but how Airbnb handled the appeal. They: - Never addressed why normal cleaning constitutes 'damage' - Provided no explanation for why this wasn't covered by the cleaning fee - Simply upheld the decision without addressing any of my specific points

Lessons learned:

• Understand that many Airbnb hosts may expect a higher level of cleanliness from guests compared to hotels
• Consider that living in an Airbnb might be less relaxing than a hotel stay, as you need to be more mindful about cleaning and daily living traces
• Airbnb's business model seems to favor host protection over guest experience
• The cleaning fee may not cover what you might reasonably expect it to cover
• When choosing between a hotel and Airbnb, factor in that Airbnb stays require more attention to cleanliness and may have less predictable final costs If you can
• Document the property condition with photos before leaving

If you think about again, you need to take photos before you leave to in case of dispute, this is not a vacation.