Beyond Cleaning: 10 Little Touches That WOW London Airbnb Guests

If there’s one thing we Londoners know, it’s how to make a first impression. And when it comes to hosting on Airbnb, first impressions are everything. Yes, a clean, fresh-smelling flat is non-negotiable, but the real magic? That comes from the little extras.

Whether you're a full-time superhost or just letting out your place while you're away, it's often the unexpected touches that prompt guests to leave a glowing five-star review (and tell their friends too). So here are ten small, thoughtful additions that can take your short-let from good to brilliant.

1. A Proper Welcome Pack

A few basics-tea, coffee, milk, maybe some biscuits-go a long way after a long journey. Want bonus points? Make it local. A mini pack of shortbread, a good Yorkshire tea bag, or even a quirky London fridge magnet.

2. Flowers (Yes, Really)

A small jug of fresh flowers on the table says, "You're welcome here." You don’t need a florist’s budget: just a cheerful seasonal bunch from your local market.

3. Local Favourites Guide

Forget the generic tourist brochures. A handwritten note with your favourite pub, coffee shop, or Sunday stroll route makes guests feel like locals. Tailor it by season, like winter pub fires or summer park picnics.

4. Phone Chargers and Universal Plugs

We’ve all forgotten one at some point. Having a spare charger or universal adaptor feels like a lifesaver, especially for overseas guests.

5. London Transport Tips

Leave an Oyster card to top up or a printed tube map. You can even mark a few key spots: your favourite curry place, the nearest Sainsbury’s, or where to catch the 24 bus.

6. Bathroom Miniatures

Everyone loves a hotel-style bathroom. Stock up on travel-sized toiletries, especially if your guests are flying in. It adds a boutique-hotel vibe without much cost.

7. A Weather-Ready Umbrella

This is London, after all. Having an umbrella ready by the door is more thoughtful than it sounds. Add a cheeky note: "We can’t promise sunshine, but we’ve got you covered."

8. Thoughtful Tech

No need to install a smart home, but a simple Bluetooth speaker or a clean, working TV remote makes a difference. Bonus points for providing Netflix login instructions (and remembering to log out after).

9. Fresh Linens with a Hotel Finish

Yes, this is where your cleaning service steps in. Crisp, well-fitted sheets and neatly folded towels signal that the place is loved and cared for.

10. A Personal Touch

Maybe it’s a handwritten note. Maybe it’s a seasonal touch-a pine-scented candle in December or a fan in July. Little details that make the space feel like more than just four walls.

A Real-World Result

One of our hosts in Camden started leaving a small welcome bag with a couple of local snacks and a handwritten note. Their rating bumped from 4.7 to 4.9 in two months-with multiple reviews saying, "Loved the little extras."

Another host in Notting Hill started coordinating their cleaner to lay out slippers and restock coffee pods. Guests called it "hotel service in a home."

Clean First, Then Add Magic

Of course, none of this matters without a clean base. That’s where we come in. At Get Set Clean, we make sure every turnover starts fresh, and then we help hosts coordinate those extras: laying out welcome packs, topping up toiletries, and folding that towel just so.

You focus on charm; we handle the shine.

Try Just One

Don’t feel pressure to do all ten. Try one or two on your next guest. Ask them what stood out. Keep what works.

Because in a city as busy as London, it’s often the smallest details that stand out the most.

Need help turning your Airbnb into a five-star stay? Get Set Clean is here to support you every step (and sparkle) of the way.