69% of travelers are actively seeking sustainable travel. That extends to how they travel, what they do, and of course, where they stay.
Sustainable travel is more than a trend, consumers demand it. By using eco-friendly cleaning techniques, you can guarantee that your vacation properties will be attractive to tourists.
What are some eco-friendly cleaning practices for vacation homes? Here are 3 practices you can use to make your cleaning environmentally friendly.
1. Conserve Water
Eco-friendly cleaning practices don't have to be difficult. It starts with reducing the resources you use, including water.
When not in use, turn off your faucet. Use a bucket for cleaning and mopping instead of letting the water constantly run.
If your vacation property doesn't have a dishwasher, consider having one installed and encourage its use. It may sound counterintuitive, but a modern dishwasher uses only 3 to 4 gallons of water, as opposed to the 27 gallons used when handwashing the same amount of dishes.
This is where good maintenance will also help. Regular inspection of your vacation home will help you identify any leaks, so they can promptly be fixed.
2. Use Environmentally-Friendly Cleaning Products
Traditional cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to the environment, Instead, opt for eco-friendly cleaning products. Check the label for keywords such as "biodegradable," "non-toxic," or "plant-friendly."
If you have outsourced your cleaning services to a third party, make sure they are using environmentally friendly products. At PMI Estes, our PMI Purify Enhanced Cleaning Protocol uses EPA-approved cleaning supplies. If you need Airbnb cleaning in the Estes Park area, we can help with our eco-friendly, safe, cleaning protocols.
3. Compost Organic Waste
Composting is nature's way of recycling. It's a controlled process that converts organic matter into soil or mulch through composition. It's a great way to reduce trash and create healthy, nutrient-rich soil.
When going about your cleaning routine, put aside items such as paper tea bags, fruit peels, and coffee grounds. You can also use items such as dry leaves, plant stalks, twigs, and shredded brown paper bags.
These items will go into your compost pile. You can either buy a bin or build one. Choose a bin and an area with good drainage, that is accessible year-round.
Start your compost pile with a 4 to 6-inch layer of "browns" (i.e. sticks and twigs) then a layer of "greens (i.e. coffee grounds and food scraps). Then alternate layers. If needed, add some water to dampen your compost pile. To ensure air circulation, occasionally turn over your compost pile.
For more information on how to compost at home, check out the EPA's guide to composting.
Eco-Friendly Cleaning Practices for Vacation Homes
These eco-friendly cleaning practices for vacation homes prove that you can create a safe, clean vacation home that's environmentally friendly. With more and more travelers conscious about their impact on the environment, it only makes sense to practice eco-friendly cleaning.
If you need help with vacation rental cleaning or other property management services, PMI Estes Park can help. We can take the hassle out of your short-term rentals by responding to inquiries, managing check-in and check-out, overseeing inspections and property maintenance, and much more.
Contact us for help with your vacation rental property.
