Short-term rental businesses such as Airbnb must prioritise responsible hosting to restore consumer confidence in preparation for the Government’s plan to reopen England’s tourism industry in April. That’s according to the team behind the UK’s leading on-demand laundry app, Laundrapp, who believe that hospitality organisations should ensure they have suitable laundry services in place to build COVID-secure guest experiences.

According to a recent report by PWC, confidence in safety and cleanliness has become the number one consideration for hotel guests, with the average traveller now placing less importance on price, cancellation policies, and loyalty programmes in the post-COVID landscape. Safety is a top priority.

Laundrapp, which currently operates across 16 UK cities, collects, launders, dry cleans, and returns clothing, bedding, and other textiles within 48 hours, providing a convenient service for both commercial and domestic clients. With research showing that the SARS-CoV-2 virus can live for several days on surfaces and belongings, Laundrapp is urging Airbnb hosts and other independent accommodation providers to ensure they have an efficient and effective laundry service in place to properly sanitise linens between guests.

In accordance with guidance from the NHS, which states that items should be washed at 60 degrees to prevent the spread of infectious illness – a sentiment backed by the World Health Organisation which recommends washing linens in a warm wash of between 60 – 90 degrees during the pandemic – Laundrapp uses a 60-degree wash for bed linens and towels, along with a strong cleaning solution that is known to kill 99.9% of bacteria and viruses.

Allan Warburton, Managing Director of Laundrapp, says, “As the travel industry begins to recover from the Covid-19 pandemic, it is inevitable that some sectors will struggle more than others, particularly the short term rental sector. With big-name hotels, consumers have the peace of mind of the regulations that come with the brand; something that they don’t automatically receive with independently run properties or private homes. For these businesses, it is more important than ever to be able to demonstrate a strong commitment to hygiene at a time when cleanliness is becoming one of the most powerful influencers in the guest’s decision-making process.”

For Airbnb hosts especially, an ability to demonstrate a commitment to cleanliness could be essential. Not only do hosts that meet the brand’s enhanced cleaning process receive an on-page highlight, but those who fail to abide by the standards expected will not be eligible for payouts should a guest choose to abandon their stay outside of the cancellation window.

While many of the UK’s travel and tourism organisations remain closed, it is anticipated that Airbnbs, self-contained holiday accommodations, and self-catering lets will begin to open under stage two of the Government’s roadmap to recovery, which is expected to begin on Monday 12th April.