Airbnb Lightens the Checkout Load

Airbnb is dialing back its checkout to-do lists. Beginning Nov. 20, hosts on the platform will be barred from requiring guests to do labor-heavy chores before checking out such as stripping beds, hauling trash offsite, or washing and putting away dishes—house rules that guests say "can be confusing, onerous and hard to manage," per Airbnb. They're also tasks guests have complained should fall to cleaners as part of the cleaning fees they pay.

USA Today reports that under the new rules, hosts also won't be allowed to add surprise rules after booking, restrict use of amenities they advertise, or tack on extra penalties for damage, which Airbnb says is covered by its AirCover protection. All rules must be visible in the listing at the time a reservation is made. Hosts can still ask a few light things of guests, per WESH: It remains OK to request that guests put used dishes in the sink, gather used towels, and sort trash and recycling into designated indoor bins.