Guest-Ready in Porto: Your Short-Term Apartment Prep Checklist

A successful short-term rental experience in Porto begins long before your guests arrive. Meticulous preparation ensures a smooth check-in, a comfortable stay, and glowing reviews. Think like a guest: what would impress them, and what would disappoint?

The Deep Clean & Immaculate Presentation

This is non-negotiable. A sparkling clean apartment is the foundation of a positive guest experience.

• Professional Cleaning: If possible, hire a professional cleaning service that specializes in short-term rentals. They’re efficient and thorough.
• Attention to Detail: Don’t forget often-missed spots: under furniture, inside cabinets, behind toilets, and light fixtures.
• Fresh Linens & Towels: Always use freshly laundered, high-quality sheets and an ample supply of clean towels (bath, hand, and face). Provide extras.
• Sparkling Surfaces: All kitchen and bathroom surfaces should gleam. Ensure mirrors are streak-free.
• Odor-Free: Air out the apartment. Consider a subtle, pleasant air freshener, but avoid anything overpowering.

Essential Supplies & Thoughtful Amenities

Go beyond the bare minimum. Guests appreciate thoughtful touches.

• Kitchen Essentials: Stock basic cooking necessities (oil, salt, pepper), coffee, tea, and sugar. Provide enough plates, cutlery, glasses, and cooking utensils for the maximum number of guests.
• Bathroom Basics: Ensure plenty of toilet paper, hand soap, shampoo, and shower gel. A hairdryer is a must.
• Cleaning Supplies: Leave a few basic cleaning products, a sponge, and dish soap for guests who want to tidy up during their stay.
• Welcome Touch: A small gesture like a bottle of local Porto wine, some Pasteis de Nata, or a local map can make a huge first impression.

Safety First

Ensuring guest safety is paramount and a legal requirement in Portugal.

• Working Detectors: Install and check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors regularly.
• Fire Extinguisher & Blanket: Ensure these are easily accessible and clearly labeled.
• First Aid Kit: A well-stocked first aid kit should be readily available.
• Emergency Information: Display emergency numbers (112 for Portugal) and the apartment’s full address prominently.

Optimize for Comfort & Convenience

Make their stay effortless and enjoyable.

• Reliable Wi-Fi: Crucial for all guests. Display the network name and password clearly.
• Climate Control: Ensure heating and/or air conditioning units are functioning perfectly and provide clear instructions.
• Comfortable Sleeping: Invest in quality mattresses, pillows, and bedding.
• Clear Instructions: Provide a comprehensive welcome guide (digital or physical) with everything from Wi-Fi details and appliance instructions to local recommendations and trash disposal rules.
• Key Access: Ensure your check-in system (key box, smart lock, or in-person) is flawless.

Final Walk-Through

Before every guest arrival, do a final walk-through yourself or have your cleaning team complete a strict checklist. Look for anything out of place, ensure all lights work, and double-check that everything is pristine. A well-prepared apartment signals professionalism and care, setting the stage for a memorable experience.