Airbnb Changes Policies for Guests and Hosts

Airbnb announced on October 22, 2026, that the policies for using the platform have been changed. Starting November 20, 2026, hosts may no longer require their guests to perform household chores that are not considered "reasonable." This includes tasks such as washing dishes, changing bed linens, or taking out the trash.

These tasks are to be handled by cleaning staff in the future. The new rules aim to make the stay more pleasant for guests by eliminating bothersome tasks before departure. Airbnb emphasizes that guests do not have to forgo amenities such as air conditioning if they are part of the accommodation. These changes have been published in the updated terms of use for the platform. The reactions from hosts to the new policies are predominantly negative.

In the community forum, many hosts have expressed their concerns and criticized that basic rules regarding hygiene and respect can no longer be enforced. One host commented: "It is absolutely abnormal that one cannot establish a basic rule of respect and hygiene regarding trash disposal and dishwashing." Another host pointed out that the new policies reduce the responsibility of guests and put hosts in a difficult position. Many hosts have insisted in the past that the accommodation be left clean upon departure to prepare for the next booking. The new rules could lead to hosts incurring additional costs to clean the accommodation after a stay. Airbnb typically charges a cleaning fee that covers the costs of tidying up.

Nevertheless, many hosts expected guests to take some responsibility as well. The new policies could increase the attractiveness of listings for guests, as they have fewer obligations, while hosts fear that this will lead to an increase in cleaning costs. However, the platform has also established exceptions to the new house rules. For example, hosts may ask their guests to conserve water during drought conditions in the region. Turning off the air conditioning before leaving the accommodation or collecting dirty dishes in the sink remains permitted for hosts.

The implementation of the new regulation raises questions, particularly about how Airbnb intends to ensure that both the needs of guests and those of hosts are taken into account. The platform has previously faced criticism for the lack of transparency regarding the total costs of an accommodation when additional fees were added. The new policies could also impact booking numbers. Airbnb has emphasized in the past that guest satisfaction is a high priority. The changes could lead to more guests using the platform, while hosts must adapt to the new conditions.

Discussion about the new policies is expected to continue, as both hosts and guests present their viewpoints. Airbnb has committed to considering community feedback and making adjustments if necessary. The new policies will take effect on November 20, 2026. Airbnb has previously made similar changes to improve the user experience.

The platform has undergone significant changes in recent years to meet the needs of guests while also safeguarding the interests of hosts. The discussion about the responsibilities of guests and hosts will remain a central topic in the future. Airbnb has announced that it will regularly review the new policies and make adjustments as needed to find a balance between the interests of both parties. The new policies were published in an official blog post by Airbnb on October 22, 2026.