✨ The Little Things Matter: My Favourite Cleaning & Hosting Tips from 15 Years in the Gîte World ✨

After 15 years of helping guests settle into their holiday homes — and working with dozens of gîte owners — I've learned that it’s often the smallest details that make the biggest difference.

Whether you're just starting out with your Airbnb, renting your countryside retreat for the summer, or managing a busy gîte business in France, here are some of my tried-and-true tips to keep things sparkling, stress-free, and ready for rave reviews.

1. Clean the Bits Guests Can’t See — But Will Notice

We all wipe down the surfaces and run the hoover, but here are some commonly missed spots:

• Coffee machine capsules & drip tray – stale water and old pods are a no-go

• Dishwasher filter/plug – pull it out, rinse it — it’s a five-minute job that saves smells

• Toasters - remember to clean that breadcrumb tray

• Under beds & sofas – dust bunnies and lost socks are not part of the charm

• Drains in sinks/showers – a quick clear of hair or debris makes a big difference and believe me guests often check these!

• Light switches & handles – grubby fingers often go unnoticed by hosts but not guests!

2. Roll Those Towels & Style the Beds

Folded towels on a shelf? Fine. But rolled towels placed neatly on the bed? Much more welcoming. It’s a simple hotel-style trick that makes the room feel prepared and intentional.

Bonus points: Add a small lavender sachet or local soap on top.

3. Tech Touches That Avoid Panic Texts

Guests don’t want to go on a tech treasure hunt.

✔️ Make sure the WiFi code is easy to find — and correct
✔️ Ensure all remote controls are present, clean, and have working batteries
✔️ Consider labeling remotes (“TV,” “Fan,” “DVD”) to avoid confusion
✔️ Leave a charger or adapter if you have spares — they'll love you for it

4. Create a Welcome Pack That Wows

First impressions really do matter — and nothing says “We’re so glad you’re here” like a thoughtfully curated welcome pack. It doesn’t have to cost a fortune, but it should feel generous, personal, and well-prepared.

Here’s what I recommend including as a base:

• A bottle of local wine and some nibbles or biscuits

• A few local treats (like jam, honey, or a regional delicacy)

• Kitchen basics: loo roll, kitchen roll, bin bags for the kitchen and toilets, foil, baking paper

• Essentials for cooking: salt, pepper, dried herbs, oil (olive or sunflower), basic spices

• A handwritten welcome card and a small bouquet of fresh flowers from the garden

And don’t forget the practicals that make a stay smoother:

• Soaps for each sink, washing-up liquid, a new sponge. Make sure there are plenty of dish clothes and tea towels

• Enough dishwasher tablets and laundry pods for the stay (or at least two of each)

• Clear instructions for anything quirky in the house (add to your house book!) Every house has its quirks!

If your gîte is more upmarket or expecting a large group, go the extra mile with:

• Milk, orange juice, a fresh baguette, jam, and maybe a small cheese selection

• A few extra bottles of wine — especially if they’re celebrating something

• Dog guests? Leave a couple of dog treats and a towel — people love the gesture

These thoughtful touches help guests feel looked after from the moment they walk through the door. It’s not just about comfort — it’s about creating an experience.

5. The House Book is Your Secret Weapon

A clear, friendly house book is one of the most helpful tools you can offer. Include:

• How-tos (TV, oven, bins, heating/cooling)

• Local recommendations (markets, restaurants, emergencies)

• Contact numbers for help

Make sure it's up to date, and ideally bilingual if your guests come from different countries.

6. If It’s Broken, Say So

If something breaks before a guest arrives — a parasol that won’t open, a missing corkscrew — tell them in advance. Most guests will understand. What they won’t appreciate is discovering it themselves with no warning.

Transparency builds trust.

Final Thought

In the end, the most successful gîtes and Airbnbs aren’t just clean — they’re cared for. It’s that invisible feeling that someone has gone the extra mile to make things right.

At France Unlocked, I help hosts take the pressure off — whether it’s cleaning checklists, guest changeovers, admin help, or just being your on-the-ground backup when you’re not in France.

Want more tips or support running your gîte or holiday home?
Let’s unlock a stress-free season together.