January: The STR Cleaner’s Dilemma

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It’s January. The holidays are over, the bookings have slowed, and for a lot of short-term rental (STR) cleaners, it feels like someone turned off the faucet. This is one of the slowest months of the year, and if you’re like most of us, the revenue dip is hitting hard.

But here’s the thing: slow doesn’t have to mean stagnant. You’ve got options. And the key to weathering the January slump? Increasing the lifetime value (LTV) of your existing customers.

Here are some practical ways to keep the cash flowing while providing extra value to your hosts.

1. Trash Runs

Ever notice how trash bins can be a nightmare for hosts after long weekends or big bookings? Offer to swing by and haul those bins to the curb. Charge a flat fee per trip or even bundle it into a monthly service package. Your host gets peace of mind, and you get some extra income.

2. Supply Runs

Take something off your host’s plate: restocking supplies. Offer to buy essentials like toilet paper, paper towels, cleaning products, and even snacks for guests. Mark up your purchases slightly or charge a service fee. Hosts love this because it’s one less thing for them to think about.

3. Property Wellness Checks

Slow seasons are perfect for pitching wellness checks. Think of it as preventative maintenance:

• Check for leaks.

• Turn on faucets to prevent freezing pipes.

• Make sure HVAC systems are running smoothly.

• Confirm that exterior doors and windows are properly sealed.

Not only does this protect the host’s investment, but it’s also an easy way to add value to your services. Charge per visit or offer a winter maintenance package.

4. Deep Cleans

January is the perfect time for hosts to refresh their properties. Offer deep cleans at a discounted rate or as an add-on. Remind them that a spotless property equals stellar reviews. Sell it as a long-term investment in their ratings.

5. Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning

Rent a professional-grade carpet cleaner or partner with a local company to offer this service. Carpets and upholstery take a beating during busy seasons, and now is the time for hosts to get them looking brand-new again. It’s also a high-margin service.

6. Mid-Term Rentals

If you know a property isn’t booked for a while, suggest a clean tailored to mid-term rental prep. This could include things like:

• Reorganizing storage areas.

• Deep cleaning inside appliances.

• Restocking items for longer stays.

This way, hosts can easily switch their listings to appeal to traveling professionals or families looking for a temporary home.

7. Strategic Marketing

Use the slow period to upsell these services. Send emails to your hosts (keep it short and sweet). Highlight how you can make their lives easier this winter. Bonus points if you position these extras as limited-time offers.

Let’s Keep It Real

January might be slow, but it’s not the end of the world. In fact, it’s an opportunity. By adding more value to your current clients, you’re not just generating revenue—you’re strengthening relationships. And when bookings pick back up? Those clients are going to remember you as the cleaner who always goes the extra mile.

Take action today. Pick two or three of these services and start pitching them to your hosts.

Until next time,
Logan

Until next time,

Logan