Wowing your guests and making them feel pampered, so much that they never want to leave, is easier than you might think. You don’t need to spend a fortune on tiny upgrades that can transform your rental into a luxurious retreat. Based on my experience, value for money is one of the key factors guests consider when booking accommodations. With just a few thoughtful touches, you can create a memorable experience that leaves guests delighted. By going the extra mile, you not only increase the likelihood of securing superb reviews, you also encourage repeat bookings—both crucial for building a successful hosting reputation, especially when you’re just starting out.
Now, let’s dive into some easy upgrades that can make your guests feel truly pampered, without stretching your budget:
1. Bedsheets and Bedlinen
The quality of bedsheets significantly impacts guest satisfaction and perceptions of your property. One of the simplest ways to make them feel like they’re staying in a luxury hotel is by offering the highest quality bedding you can afford. For both durability and ease of care, white cotton sheets are an excellent option, giving a fresh, clean look while being timelessly elegant.
The type of weave influences the fabric’s texture and feel. Percale is known for its crisp, cool feel and enhanced durability, making it perfect for warmer climates. Sateen, with its subtle sheen and smooth texture, adds sophistication to your bedding. While both options are great, sateen gives a polished look, ideal for that boutique hotel ambiance. Personally, I opted for white cotton sateen bedlinen for my own rental, and it turned out to be a great choice, offering both elegance and comfort.
One more thing that’s equally important—opt for a higher thread count (300-400) for that soft, luxurious feel that will make guests feel like they’re sleeping in a five-star retreat.
2. Pillows
Have you ever stayed in a hotel with pillows so perfect that you didn’t want to leave the bed? The right pillows are essential for ensuring your guests have a restful night.
Providing just one pillow per guest won’t create the luxurious experience you want. While luxury hotels often offer down and microfiber options, I recommend sticking with synthetic fillers. They cater better to guests with allergies and are practical, as they can be washed at high temperatures. Regularly washing and replacing cushions when necessary is essential for maintaining freshness and comfort, ensuring your guests enjoy a consistently relaxing sleep.
Make sure to provide at least two pillows per guest—one with a softer filling for those who prefer a cushy feel and another with medium to firm filling for guests who like more support. A mix of both will accommodate different preferences. Finally, don’t underestimate the visual impact of well-arranged pillows, which give a polished, stylish look to the bed, enhancing that boutique hotel vibe your guests will love.
3. Quality Bathroom Amenities and Luxurious Towels
Most guests expect basic toiletries like shower gel and shampoo. But why stop at the basics when you can impress them with a touch of luxury? High-quality, eco-friendly toiletries in stylish holders can make a big difference. Using refillable containers not only looks chic but also aligns with eco-conscious guests’ expectations, minimizing plastic waste. Guests love premium brands—especially those they wouldn’t necessarily buy at home. For an extra touch, beyond the basic toiletries, consider adding conditioner or nourishing body lotion as a special treat after a refreshing shower.
Who doesn’t love wrapping themselves in a soft, plush towel after a bath? To offer that five-star hotel experience, choose towels based on GSM (grams per square meter). GSM indicates the towel’s thickness and softness. Medium to heavyweight towels (400-600 GSM) are perfect for warmer climates, while anything over 600 GSM delivers ultimate luxury. Provide three towel sizes per guest: a bath towel, hand towel, and washcloth. Guests staying longer will appreciate having extra towels at their disposal.
For added elegance, consider personalizing the towels by embroidering the initials of your apartment. This small detail enhances the boutique hotel atmosphere and makes your guests feel even more special.
If your property has a pool, don’t forget to offer pool towels, along with hotel-style slippers and cozy bathrobes. These extra touches elevate the guest experience, creating that boutique hotel feel everyone loves.
4. Cozy Extras
Who wouldn’t love a cozy space with lovely sofas, armchairs, and fluffy blankets that invite guests to relax and unwind? Throw pillows and soft blankets are some of the best low-cost accessories for enhancing both the comfort and style of your space. These little touches create a welcoming, homey atmosphere while adding a hint of luxury.
When selecting accessories, always consider the apartment’s color palette, and opt for natural, easy-to-clean materials like cotton or linen. Machine-washable throws and hypoallergenic blankets are easy to maintain while ensuring all your guests feel at ease.
Don’t forget about comfy seat cushions for the terrace or dining area to ensure your guests enjoy every corner of your space. While candles can be tempting, I recommend avoiding them for safety reasons. Instead, consider adding battery-operated LED candles, along with a stylish table lamp, standing lamp, or even a statement ceiling light. They will help you create a warm, intimate ambiance your guests will adore.
5. Entertainment Options
For many guests, the main goal is to relax and escape from everyday reality. You can enhance their experience with a few thoughtful upgrades. A low-cost investment can give them access to popular streaming services, allowing guests to enjoy those less-than-ideal rainy days. Streaming services let guests unwind with their favorite shows, providing that ‘home away from home’ experience.
Personally, I always remember to leave a few board games in the living room when families with children stay at my apartment. Games like these encourage quality time together, and families especially appreciate this thoughtful gesture.
Local recommendations are highly valued by guests. Prepare an elegant guidebook featuring your favorite local restaurants, bars, and attractions. You can also include practical advice, such as the location of nearby self-service laundry facilities if your accommodation lacks a washing machine. Don’t forget to add tips for navigating the area, parking information, and public transport options.
If you’ve made it this far, I’m sure you’ll agree—there’s no need to break the bank to boost guest satisfaction quickly and effectively. By adding these thoughtful details, you can create welcoming, luxurious atmosphere that makes guests feel truly valued. These small but impactful upgrades not only enhance your guest’s experience but they also build your reputation as a host who genuinely cares. This can lead to consistently positive reviews and loyal, repeat guests. And isn’t that what we all strive for?
If you would like to dive deeper and get to know which are the 5 most common mistakes to avoid when decorating your Airbnb, please check out here.
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