Match the problem to the gap
Some odors can be handled in a normal turnover: stale air, trash, a drain that dried out. Others need time for laundering, repeat cleaning, airing out and a recheck with the unit closed up. Heavy cigarette smoke, smoke in soft furniture, or odor in the HVAC system may need a professional treatment and a day or more before the unit can be judged.
Hosts often lose more by squeezing a treatment into a short gap and getting a bad review than by blocking a night. Use the table to estimate, then look at your calendar. When the gap is too short for the problem, decide early, while you still have options for the incoming guest.
Typical time needs
| Situation | Usually fits | Plan for |
|---|---|---|
| Stale air after a quiet stretch | Same-day turnover | Airing out, running drains, fresh filter |
| Trash or food odor in kitchen | Same-day turnover | Bins washed, fridge and disposal cleaned |
| Light cooking odor across two stays | Same day to one night | Hood filter, fabrics, surfaces |
| Cigarette smoke in one room | One to two nights | Laundering, wall and ceiling washing, recheck closed up |
| Smoke throughout, upholstery affected | Two or more nights | Professional cleaning or treatment and recheck |
| Odor in the HVAC system | Depends on provider | Filter, coil and possible duct cleaning |
When the gap is too short
- IfThe next guest arrives in a few hours and the smell is strongThenContact the guest early through the platform, explain there is an issue, and offer options the platform allows, such as a later check-in or a change of dates.
- IfYou have one night but need twoThenBlock the following night now while it is still open, so a treatment and recheck fit before the next arrival after that.
- IfA professional is needed and their first opening is after check-inThenDo what you can in the turnover and be honest with the guest rather than hoping they will not notice.
- IfThe smell is mild and fading by the end of the turnoverThenDo a closed-up recheck an hour before arrival and note the result.
Common questions
Is it better to cancel or let a guest arrive to a smell?
That depends on how strong it is and the platform's rules. A guest who is told in advance and offered options is usually far less upset than one who discovers it at the door.
General information for LoHi, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.