Updated April 2024
Homeowners often ask us for guidance about what household supplies they are expected to leave for their guests, such as cleaning products, paper products, seasonings, condiments, etc.
There is no hard-and-fast rule about what should be provided, and the choice is completely up to the discretion of the owner. But, as in ALL aspects of managing a vacation rental, the happiness of the vacationer’s experience is vital to the homeowner’s success. It is often those “little extras” that can make a world of difference in guaranteeing your guests’ happiness. This may lead to a positive review and increase the likelihood of their returning next season. So,
when in doubt, provide all you can!
The supplies you provide significantly depend on the size and quality of your home: the expectations of a simple, rustic cottage, for example, would be less than of a larger, more upscale home.
Recommended provisions
- Dishwasher and laundry detergent
- Fresh dish sponges and brushes
- Basic seasonings such as salt and pepper, but preferably other seasonings as well
- Trash bags
- Pot holders, dish towels, bathmat(s)
- Paper products, including toilet paper and paper towels. Preferably napkins, foil and plastic wrap, and sandwich bags, too.
- Hand soap
- Basic cleaning supplies
- Flashlight(s)
- Light bulbs
- A full propane tank for the gas grill and a spare, or plenty of charcoal and lighter fuel
- Grill utensils
- Vacuum cleaner bags
- Fans
- First aid kit
- Board games/puzzles/playing cards
- Iron/ironing board
Additional supplies
- Lobster pot and utensils
- Picnic containers
- Batteries
- Bug candles/Tiki torches
- Skewers
- Corn cob holders
- Coffee, sweeteners, flour, sugar, cooking oil
- Outdoor games: whiffle ball/bat, croquet set, cornhole, etc.
- Beach chairs and toys, beach umbrella, boogie boards
- Cooler(s)
- Waffle maker
Replace and Replenish
The tricky part is keeping all the supplies available throughout the season, not just for the first few guests. You may need to keep a locked supply closet filled with replacements and/or have your cleaning staff monitor the supplies and replenish them if possible. Often, homeowners request that their guests replace supplies that they have used up.
A Small Investment Goes a Long Way
The few extra dollars spent on providing these supplies assures the appreciation and happiness of your guests, which is the primary goal of all homeowners. The last thing guests want to do when they arrive at your home is to run back out to purchase basic supplies that they expected the home to provide.
What other supplies do you leave for your guests? Have I forgotten any that you’d recommend?