How to Choose the Best Bedding for Airbnb or Vacation Rental

Key Takeaways

• High-quality bedding choices leading to a memorable and comfortable stay.
• When selecting bedding, consider durability, ease of maintenance, and fabric type to meet diverse guest preferences.
• A full bedding set includes more than just the pillows, sheets, and blankets. Consider adding mattress protectors and bed bug covers to increase your bedding’s hygiene and longevity.

There is something truly special—and rare—about the feeling you get when you crawl into the bed sheets for the first time at an Airbnb and you find yourself preferring the comfort to that of your own bed. As an Airbnb host, bedding presents an opportunity to make a lasting impression beyond just a good night's sleep.

Selecting the right bedding is a statement of quality and hospitality that resonates throughout the Airbnb guest’s visit, impacting reviews and encouraging repeat bookings. This guide will navigate you through choosing the best bedding for your Airbnb.

Why Bedding for Your Airbnb Matters

Comfortable and high-quality bedding is key to a restful night's sleep and a standard expectation for travelers. Guests often remember the quality of their sleep when reviewing their stay, which can influence future bookings. First impressions matter, and crisp, clean bedding sets a professional tone, indicating that the host values their guests' comfort.

Furnishing your short-term rental with well-chosen bedding can also reflect and amplify the overall aesthetic of the rental space.

If you're pondering the upgrade to new bedding, take a moment to assess its current condition. Signs of wear—like pilling, fading, or thinning—signal it's time for a refresh. Keeping up with bedding trends can rejuvenate your space's look effortlessly, bypassing the need for a design overhaul.

What to Look for in Airbnb Bedding

Well-rested guests leave better reviews than the put-out traveler who left with a kink in their neck. Durability, guest comfort, maintenance, and budget alignment are key factors when choosing bedding that brings in the reviews you want without breaking the bank.

Durability

Selecting durable bedding ensures cost-effectiveness over time. Look for materials known for their resilience, such as high-thread-count cotton or linen, which stand up well to frequent use and laundering. You want to avoid the need for constant replacements.

Able to Withstand Frequent Washing

Your Airbnb bedding will be washed much more frequently than the ones you have at home. That’s why it’s best to choose long-lasting fabrics, such as blended fibers, which retain their shape, color, and texture. 

Wrinkle-Resistant

Choosing wrinkle-resistant bedding contributes to a tidy and inviting bed, reflecting professional care with minimal effort on your part.

Easy to Replace 

When the time does come to replace your bedding, make sure you’ve chosen bedding that comes from a well-regarded brand that keeps the same or an equivalent set in stock. Ideally, you’ll only have to do your bedding research once!

Approved by Your Cleaning Team 

Your cleaning team has the inside scoop on what’s easy to clean and what’s not. Plus, they’ve likely encountered all types of bedding and can speak to what other properties are providing.

Pet and Kid Friendly

If you are a pet-friendly or family-friendly Airbnb, opt for bedding that can withstand the extra wear and tear that comes with hosting families and furry friends. Look for durable, easy-to-clean options that resist stains, damage, and pet hair.

Allergen-Friendly

Hypoallergenic materials that deter dust mites, mold, and other allergens show that you care about the well-being of sensitive guests or guests with allergies.

Choosing the Right Fabric for Your Airbnb Bedding

The material you choose can greatly influence your Airbnb beds’ overall comfort, aesthetic appeal, and ease of maintenance, making this decision crucial for hosts.

Cotton: The All-Around Champion

• Highly breathable and soft, making it ideal for most climates and guest preferences.
• Durable and easy to wash, perfect for hosts who prioritize ease of maintenance.
• Variety of weaves and thread count, like percale for a crisp feel or sateen for a smoother touch.

Best for: The everyday host catering to families, business travelers, or weekend warriors seeking comfort and reliability.

Linen: The Laid-back Luxury

• Natural, relaxed texture offers a laid-back luxury vibe that gets softer over time.
• Exceptionally breathable, and suited for warm climates or summer Airbnb rentals.
• Can wrinkle easily, but perfect for hosts aiming for a rustic or bohemian aesthetic.

Best for: Boutique rentals or beach homes where the emphasis is on effortless luxury and cool sleeping environments.

Microfiber: The Budget-Friendly Softie

• Soft, suede-like feel from finely woven synthetic fibers, offering comfort at a budget-friendly price.
• Stain-resistant and durable, though less breathable, making it better for cooler climates.

Best for: Budget accommodations, student rental units, or short stays where cost and durability are paramount.

Bamboo: The Eco-Friendly Softness

• Soft, moisture-wicking, and hypoallergenic, gentle on sensitive skin.
• Eco-friendly, appealing to environmentally conscious guests.
• Requires gentle care, but its sustainability and comfort are unmatched.

Best for: Eco-friendly properties, sustainable STRs, and wellness-focused properties.

Silk: The Ultimate in Luxury and Comfort

• Smooth and cool, ideal for sensitive skin or hot sleepers.
• Hypoallergenic, resisting dust mites and mold.
• High maintenance and premium price, but offers unparalleled elegance.

Best for: High-end luxury listings, romantic getaways, or hosts looking to provide an opulent, unforgettable sleeping experience.

Polyester: The Durable and Wrinkle-Resistant Option

• Durable and wrinkle-resistant, but with less breathability.
• Cost-effective, blending well with other fibers to improve feel while keeping costs down.

Best for: High turnover rentals, corporate rentals catering to business travelers, or any host looking for a no-fuss bedding option.

11 Types of Bedding You Will Need for Your Airbnb 

A well-chosen array of bedding can take your bedroom decor to the next level while also protecting again common issues such as bed bugs and dust mites.

Mattress Pad

A mattress pad adds an extra layer of cushioning to an Airbnb bed and provides an additional protective barrier against wear and tear.

Mattress Protector

Mattress protectors are vital for hygiene, safeguarding the mattress from spills and stains. A good quality protector can also prevent dust mites and allergens from accumulating.

Bed Bug Covers

Bed bug covers are an essential line of defense for any vacation rental. They seal the mattress and pillows to prevent infestations and grant peace of mind to guests. Nothing tanks your bookings faster than the guest whistleblower that discovered bed bugs during their stay!

Sheets

Choose a complete sheet set, including both a fitted sheet and a top sheet, with a high thread count.

Duvet Insert

Take into account the thermal properties of your duvet insert, especially if your vacation rental property is located in a colder climate. Down or synthetic fills are common, with the latter being hypoallergenic.

Duvet Cover

Choose easy-to-clean duvet covers that match the bedroom's aesthetic to elevate the overall look of your property. Duvet covers making laundering and maintenance straightforward for hosts as well. You can keep your duvet and duvet covers cleaner for longer by adding throw blankets on top of them.

Bed Skirts

Bed skirts contribute to the overall elegance of the room and smartly concealing any under-bed storage.

Pillows

A sufficient supply of pillows–four pillows for a bed that sleeps two as a starting point–caters to different guest preferences. Having extra pillows in the closet is also recommended. Offer a variety of firmness levels and different sizes, and consider investing in king size pillows if you’re going for luxury. Pillow shams can also be a nice touch. 

Pillow Protectors

Pillow protectors are sleeves for your pillow that goes under your pillowcase to provide a buffer from sweat, drool, food spills, and makeup. They prolong the life of pillows, keeping them clean and fresh for each new arrival and defending against moisture and oils.

Pillow Slips

High-quality pillow slips or pillow cases provide a clean and comfortable surface. They should also be easily washable and durable enough for frequent use.

Throw Blankets

Throw blankets add a functional decorative touch to bedrooms, offering guests additional warmth and comfort. Choose designs that complement the existing decor. 

As you can see, bedding is so much more than sheet sets! It can be a lot to keep track of, so make sure you put it all on your cleaning checklist for your Airbnb. 

Where to Buy Bedding for Your Vacation Rental

Finding the best bedding for Airbnb involves exploring quality options that align with your Airbnb aesthetic and your budget. 

• Major retail chains such as Target, Walmart, and Bed Bath & Beyond have every type of bedding at affordable prices.
• Hospitality suppliers such as Direct Textile Store and National Hospitality Supply specialize in products crafted to endure frequent washing and use.
• Online retailers such as Amazon, Overstock, and Wayfair provide detailed descriptions, customer reviews, and often, competitive pricing.
• Luxury linen brands such as Brooklinen, Parachute, Boll & Branch offer high-quality fabrics and exclusive designs.
• Eco-friendly options such as Coyuchi, Buffy, and The Organic Mattress Store offer organic, environmentally responsible bedding options.

For those managing multiple properties or seeking cost-effective solutions, joining a group like HostGPO might offer additional benefits. This community provides access to exclusive deals on high-quality hospitality essentials, helping you upgrade your rentals efficiently. 

Let Guests Take Home Their Favorite Finds

An exciting added benefit you can offer is to give your guests the option to purchase your Airbnb bedding amenities for their own homes. This can create an even better experience for your guests resulting in better reviews and ratings. Minoan Experience can automate this process or you can facilitate it yourself. Hosts can curate a list of purchasable items, presenting them in a digital welcome message or a tasteful in-room catalog, complete with details for direct transactions. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of sheet sets and bedding sets are most durable for Airbnb properties?

Cotton-polyester blend Airbnb sheets offer a balance of comfort and durability, resisting wrinkles and sustaining frequent washing. 

How many sets of linens should an Airbnb host keep in stock?

An Airbnb host should ideally keep three sets of linens per bed: one in use, one in the laundry, and one ready to go. This ensures quick turnover for back-to-back bookings and reduces wear and tear on individual sets. Keep an eye out for full duvet cover sets that you can buy in multiple.

What is considered the most comfortable bedding material for a rental property?

Egyptian or Pima cotton is widely regarded for comfort due to its softness and breathability, making it an excellent choice for bedding in rental properties. Linen is also a popular option, favored for its natural coolness and airy texture.

How can an Airbnb host make their beds appealing to guests?

Choose quality mattresses, add plush toppers or comforters, and offer a variety of pillow firmness.

What are the recommended colors for bedding in a short-term rental?

Neutral colors such as white, beige, or light gray are recommended for their versatility and clean appearance. These colors can complement any type of fecor and are less likely to fade or show stains after repeated washings.