The Case for Inventory Checks: Why You Should Take Stock After Every Guest Stay
In the world of short- and mid-term rentals, guest satisfaction isn’t just about having a clean space—it’s about having a complete one.
You may have started out with a fully stocked kitchen, plenty of towels, and that perfect set of matching wine glasses. But after a few bookings? Things start to go missing, wear down, or break—and if you’re not doing regular inventory checks, you might not notice until a guest does.
And that can cost you more than a fork or two.
Why Inventory Matters
Imagine booking a cozy weekend getaway only to realize there’s only one wine glass for a group of four—or worse, no can opener when you’re mid-dinner prep. Small inconveniences like these leave a lasting impression and can lead to mediocre reviews, even if the rest of the stay was great.
Regular inventory checks keep your property guest-ready and help you:
✅ Maintain a consistent guest experience
✅ Avoid last-minute shopping trips or complaints
✅ Catch damage or missing items early
✅ Plan smarter restocks and replacements
It’s one of the easiest ways to stay ahead—and keep those five-star reviews rolling in.
What Should You Check?
Here’s a basic inventory checklist to review after each stay (or have your cleaning team check if they're trained to do so):
✅ Glassware & mugs (are sets complete?)
✅ Plates, bowls, and cutlery
✅ Cooking tools (tongs, spatulas, peelers, wine opener!)
✅ Pots, pans, baking trays
✅ Towels & linens (check for stains or damage)
✅ Small appliances (toasters, coffee makers—do they still work?)
✅ Batteries in remotes or keypads
✅ Light bulbs (burnt out or dim?)
✅ Cleaning supplies (stocked and accessible)
Over time, you’ll develop a sense of what gets used or misplaced most often in your rental. Tracking it helps you save money, too—you’ll only replace what’s actually needed.
Pro Tip: Create a Master Inventory List
If you haven’t already, make a master list of all items in your rental, room by room. It’s a helpful reference not only for you or your co-host, but for cleaners, maintenance staff, and anyone helping you manage the property.
Some hosts even laminate a discreet inventory card inside a cabinet or pantry for quick checks.
Bottom Line:
Doing inventory after every stay may feel like a small task, but it’s one that makes a big difference in guest satisfaction. In a market where competition is fierce, consistency and attention to detail are what set your rental apart.
Want help setting up your inventory system—or training your cleaners to do it for you? BnB on Market offers property management solutions that keep your rental running like a well-oiled (and fully stocked) machine. Let’s chat.