Flower smoke compared with vape aerosol

Guests sometimes argue that vaping does not count. The odor behaves differently, but neither is free.

Smoked flower or joints

  • Heavy, skunky odor that clings to curtains, upholstery and hair-like fibers in rugs
  • Leaves a resin film on glass and cool surfaces, similar in practice to tobacco
  • Often noticed by the next guest the moment the door opens
  • Usually needs fabric laundering plus surface cleaning, sometimes source treatment

Vape cartridges and concentrates

  • Lighter, sweeter odor that fades faster in moving air
  • Can leave an oily residue on windows and mirrors near where the guest sat
  • Easier to miss at checkout, then noticed later when the heat runs
  • Often handled by a thorough clean if caught early and the unit is ventilated

Writing a rule guests actually read

A rule buried in a long house manual protects you less than a short line in the listing summary and a reminder in the check-in message. Name the thing directly: no smoking or vaping of tobacco or cannabis anywhere inside the unit, on balconies, or in shared hallways. Vague wording such as no smoking leaves room for a guest to say they thought cannabis vapes were different.

If you allow cannabis on a private patio or yard, say where, and tell guests to close doors and windows. Smoke pulled into an open slider ends up in the living room drapes. Also confirm your building or HOA rules first. Many LoHi condo and townhome associations restrict smoking in common areas and on balconies, and those rules apply to your guests whether or not your listing repeats them.

Edibles produce no lingering smell, so a rule that bans smoking does not need to mention them, but some hosts add a line about keeping products out of reach of children if the unit is family friendly.

Checkout signs that cannabis was smoked

  • Skunky odor strongest at the level of the couch or bed, not near the ceiling
  • Rolling papers, ash or burnt residue in mugs, small dishes or the balcony
  • Towels stuffed under a door or a bathroom fan left running
  • A haze or sticky feel on the inside of the bedroom window
  • Odor that returns after the unit has been aired out and closed again

Points to confirm for your own listing

State law
Check current Colorado rules on where cannabis may be consumed; public use is generally not allowed.
City license
Confirm Denver's current short-term rental license requirements directly with the city.
Building rules
Read your HOA declaration or lease for smoking restrictions before writing house rules.
Platform policy
Review your platform's current rules on smoking fees and damage claims.

Common questions

Can I charge a guest for cannabis odor treatment?

Platforms have their own damage and fee processes, and outcomes depend on their policies and your documentation. Photos taken before cleaning, the house rule as written, and the treatment invoice are the core of any request.

Does cannabis odor need different treatment than tobacco?

The cleaning steps are similar. Cannabis odor tends to be stronger at first but sometimes leaves less tar on surfaces than heavy tobacco use. A provider should assess the actual unit rather than assume.

General information for LoHi, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.