A turnover-day walkthrough

Adjust the sequence to your own schedule and property.

On entry
Notice smell before opening any windows, since first impressions are what the next guest will have.
Next 10 minutes
Photograph balconies, bedrooms, bathroom fans and any visible residue or ash.
Then
Strip bedding, towels and removable cushion covers and bag them separately for laundering.
Mid-turnover
Wipe glass, tables and hard surfaces and vacuum soft furniture.
Before leaving
Close the unit for a short time, re-enter and smell again to confirm the result.

Why short-term rentals are tricky

A traditional tenant lives with a smell and may handle it slowly. A guest walks in, forms an opinion within seconds and may post a review. That makes cannabis odor an operational problem, not just a cleaning one. Rules about consumption in short-term rentals depend on your city license terms, lease or association rules and platform policy, and you should read those yourself instead of assuming anything about what is allowed.

Balconies and patios in Denver apartments and townhomes are common smoking spots. Residue collects on railings, door tracks and screens, and the smell is pulled indoors each time the slider opens. Soft goods are the next problem, because duvets, throw pillows and curtains absorb aerosol quickly and release it as the room warms.

Because turnover time is short, hosts often rely on sprays and plug-ins. Those can add a second layer of smell that some guests find worse than the first, so it is better to remove the source where possible.

Items to keep on hand

  • A spare set of linens and cushion covers to swap out quickly.
  • Microfiber cloths and a mild degreasing cleaner for glass and rails.
  • A vacuum with a clean filter and a crevice tool.
  • Sealable bags for odorous laundry.
  • A written house rule on smoking and vaping, shown clearly in the listing and the welcome message, if your terms allow it.

Common questions

Should I ask guests not to smoke?
Clear house rules are common practice, but check your license, lease and platform requirements for wording and enforcement.
How do I know the smell is really gone?
Close the unit for several hours, step outside for five minutes, then re-enter. Repeat after the heat or air conditioner runs.

General information for the Denver area, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.