Airbnb Supplies List: The Complete Host Checklist for 2025

Setting up an Airbnb isn’t just about listing your property and waiting for bookings. The difference between a three-star “it was fine” review and a five-star “exceeded expectations” rave comes down to what you stock in your rental.

Every year, hosts spend thousands stocking their properties with supplies they think guests need, only to get complaints about missing essentials. Or worse – they over-invest in amenities nobody uses while skipping the basics that actually matter.

This guide breaks down exactly what Airbnb supplies you need, where to buy them without overpaying, and which “essentials” you can actually skip. We’ll cover everything from the must-haves Airbnb officially requires to the strategic additions that drive five-star reviews and repeat bookings.

What Airbnb Considers “Essentials”

Before you start shopping, understand what Airbnb defines as baseline essentials – the bare minimum every listing must provide:

• Toilet paper (at minimum, one roll per bathroom)
• Hand and body soap
• One towel per guest
• One pillow per guest
• Bed linens for each bed

That’s it. That’s the official list.

Meeting these requirements lets you check the “Essentials” box in your listing amenities. But if you think these five items will earn you five-star reviews, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment. Today’s travelers expect comfort, convenience, and thoughtful details that go well beyond the minimums.

The real question isn’t “what does Airbnb require?” It’s “what do guests actually need to leave a glowing review and book again?”

The Complete Airbnb Supplies Checklist

Let’s break down the actual supplies you need, organized by room and priority level.

Bedroom Essentials

Your bedroom is where guests spend a third of their stay. Get this wrong and nothing else matters.

Must-Have Bedroom Supplies:

• Quality mattress – Don’t cheap out here. A queen or king mattress from a reputable brand is non-negotiable. Guests will roast you in reviews for uncomfortable beds faster than anything else
• Mattress protector – Waterproof, washable, and essential for protecting your investment
• Two pillows per sleeping space – Minimum. Many guests prefer having 3-4 pillows for options
• Complete bedding sets – For each bed: fitted sheet, flat sheet, duvet or comforter with cover
• Extra blanket or throw – Temperature preferences vary wildly among guests
• Blackout curtains or blinds – Sleep quality matters, and street lights ruin it
• Bedside table with lamp – Each side of the bed should have a surface and light source
• Alarm clock – Not everyone wants to drain their phone battery
• Luggage rack or bench – Guests shouldn’t have to live out of suitcases on the floor
• Adequate hangers – 10-15 per closet, mix of standard and clips for pants
• Full-length mirror – Can be mounted on closet door to save space
• Wastebasket – Every room needs one

Nice-to-Have Bedroom Additions:

• TV with streaming capability (this increasingly shifts from “nice” to “expected”)
• USB charging ports or outlets near bed
• Extra phone charger cables
• Reading light for each side of bed
• Iron and ironing board (or steamer)
• Safe for valuables
• Room-darkening shades plus sheer curtains for flexibility

The bedroom checklist seems obvious until you’re the one getting a three-star review because guests had nowhere to set their water glass at night or couldn’t see to get dressed in the morning.

Bathroom Supplies

Bathrooms are where most negative reviews start. Guests will forgive a slightly dated kitchen before they’ll overlook a poorly-stocked bathroom.

Must-Have Bathroom Supplies:

• Toilet paper – Three rolls per bathroom minimum, with extras visible or communicated
• Hand soap – Pump dispenser, not bar soap for sinks
• Body wash or bar soap – Bar soap must be replaced after each guest
• Shampoo and conditioner – Travel-size minimum, refillable dispensers for longer stays
• Bath towels – Two per guest, plus one extra set
• Hand towels – Two per bathroom
• Washcloths – Two per guest
• Bath mat – Non-slip, washable
• Shower curtain and liner – Replace liner regularly, clean frequently
• Hairdryer – Wall-mounted or stored accessibly
• Toilet brush and plunger – Hidden but accessible
• Tissues – Box on counter or shelf
• Trash can with liner – Small with lid preferred
• Cleaning supplies – Stored away but available if guests need them

Nice-to-Have Bathroom Additions:

• Makeup remover wipes
• Cotton swabs and cotton balls
• Disposable razors
• Shaving cream
• Lotion
• First aid kit (band-aids, pain relievers, basic supplies)
• Feminine hygiene products
• Extra toiletry basket for overflow items
• Bathrobe (luxury properties)
• Scale
• Night light

Bulk Buying Strategy for Bathrooms:

Buying toiletries in bulk cuts costs dramatically. A 200-pack of travel-size shampoo bottles runs about $60, or $0.30 per guest. Compare that to $2-3 per guest buying retail.

Where to source bulk bathroom supplies:

• Vacation Home Amenities – 120-piece kits with free shipping
• Wholesale Rental Supplies – Cheaper than Costco without wholesaler minimums
• WebstaurantStore – Hospitality-grade supplies at wholesale prices
• Amazon Subscribe & Save – Convenient for regular restocking
• Costco or Sam’s Club – Good for towels and paper products

Go for unscented, hypoallergenic options. Guests with fragrance sensitivities will appreciate it, and you avoid complaints about headaches from heavily-scented products.

Kitchen Supplies

One major reason guests choose Airbnb over hotels is kitchen access. Even if your guests don’t cook elaborate meals, they’ll heat leftovers, make coffee, and prepare simple breakfasts.

Must-Have Kitchen Supplies:

Cookware:

• 2-3 pots (small, medium, large)
• 2-3 pans (small skillet, large skillet, sheet pan)
• Baking dish (9×13 minimum)
• Colander or strainer
• Mixing bowls (set of 3)

Cooking Tools:

• Chef’s knife, paring knife, bread knife
• Cutting board (2-3 in different sizes)
• Spatula, wooden spoon, ladle, tongs
• Can opener, bottle opener, corkscrew
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven mitts or pot holders
• Peeler, grater

Dishes & Glassware:

• Dinner plates (service for 6-8)
• Bowls (service for 6-8)
• Salad/appetizer plates
• Mugs and cups (8-10)
• Drinking glasses (8-10)
• Wine glasses (6)
• Silverware (service for 8)
• Flatware organizer

Small Appliances:

• Coffee maker – This is critical. 90% of guests expect coffee or tea
• Electric kettle
• Microwave
• Toaster or toaster oven
• Blender (if targeting health-conscious guests)

Storage & Cleaning:

• Food storage containers (various sizes)
• Aluminum foil, plastic wrap, zip-top bags
• Dish soap and sponges
• Dish towels (6-8)
• Drying mat or rack
• Trash can with liner (13+ gallon)
• Paper towels
• Napkins

Pantry Staples (Optional but Appreciated):

• Coffee and filters
• Tea bags
• Sugar, salt, pepper
• Olive oil
• Basic spices
• Trash bags
• Dish soap pods

That $10 investment in coffee, sugar, and creamer can literally be the difference between a four-star and five-star review. Guests mention this stuff in reviews constantly.

Living Room Supplies

The living room is where guests actually relax and decide whether they feel comfortable in your space.

Must-Have Living Room Supplies:

• Comfortable seating – Sofa plus chairs for max occupancy
• Coffee table – Functional, not just decorative
• Side tables – For drinks, phones, remotes
• TV with streaming – Smart TV or streaming device. Cable is less important than Wi-Fi streaming access
• Adequate lighting – Overhead plus lamps for ambiance
• Window treatments – Curtains or blinds for privacy and light control
• Throw blankets – 2-3 for comfort and visual warmth
• Decorative pillows – Don’t overdo it, but some add comfort and style

Nice-to-Have Living Room Additions:

• Board games or playing cards
• Books or magazines
• Local guidebooks or area information
• Extension cords and power strips with USB ports
• Coasters
• Artwork or decor (but keep it neutral)
• Sound system or Bluetooth speaker

One underrated investment: power strips with USB ports near seating areas. Guests travel with multiple devices that need charging, and they’ll absolutely mention inadequate outlets in reviews.

Laundry Supplies

If your property has washer/dryer access, stock these:

• Laundry detergent – Pods are easiest and reduce waste
• Dryer sheets or wool dryer balls
• Stain remover stick
• Laundry basket or hamper
• Iron and ironing board (or steamer)
• Drying rack (optional but helpful)

Properties without in-unit laundry should at minimum provide information about nearby laundromats and their hours.

Safety & Emergency Supplies

Legally Required/Strongly Recommended:

• Smoke detectors – Test monthly, replace batteries regularly
• Carbon monoxide detector – Required in most jurisdictions with fuel-burning appliances
• Fire extinguisher – At least one, accessible location (usually kitchen)
• First aid kit – Basic supplies including bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers
• Emergency contact information – Posted clearly
• Flashlights – With working batteries
• Emergency exit plan – Posted if applicable

Some jurisdictions require specific safety equipment. Check your local STR regulations – our Birmingham STR regulations guide breaks down what’s required in one major market.

Outdoor Supplies (If Applicable)

If your property has outdoor space, these items dramatically improve guest experience:

• Patio furniture – Table and chairs for max occupancy
• Grill (gas or charcoal with supplies)
• Outdoor lighting
• Citronella candles or mosquito repellent
• Cooler (especially for beach/lake properties)
• Beach towels (separate from bath towels)
• Picnic blanket
• Outdoor games (cornhole, frisbee, etc.)
• Hose and basic gardening tools
• Trash and recycling bins

Smart Shopping: Where to Buy Airbnb Supplies

The difference between profitable and barely-breaking-even Airbnb hosting often comes down to smart purchasing.

Best Overall: Amazon

Fast shipping, huge selection, competitive prices. Subscribe & Save cuts costs by 5-15% and ensures you never run out of recurring items like toilet paper and coffee. Returns are easy when something doesn’t work.

Best for Bulk Basics: Costco or Sam’s Club

Can’t beat the per-unit cost on towels, sheets, trash bags, and paper products. The membership pays for itself if you’re stocking multiple properties.

Best for Furniture: IKEA, Wayfair, Target

IKEA wins on price and functionality. Wayfair offers business-to-business discounts if you have an LLC. Target hits the sweet spot of affordable and stylish.

Best for Toiletries: Specialized Wholesalers

Vacation Home Amenities, Wholesale Rental Supplies, and WebstaurantStore offer hotel-grade supplies at bulk pricing. The quality exceeds drugstore alternatives, and costs run 40-60% less than retail.

Best for Last-Minute Needs: Walmart, Target

When you need something immediately between guests, these stores deliver. Not the cheapest option, but the convenience factor matters when you’re restocking on short notice.

Don’t Overlook: TJ Maxx, HomeGoods, Marshalls

These discount retailers offer incredible deals on towels, bedding, decor, and small appliances. The catch? Inventory varies, so you can’t rely on finding specific items. Great for initial stocking or upgrades, less ideal for consistent restocking.

Tailoring Supplies to Your Guest Type

Not every Airbnb needs the same supplies. Tailor your checklist to your actual guests.

Business Travelers Need:

• Dedicated workspace with desk and comfortable chair
• Good lighting for video calls
• Printer and office supplies (or access to one nearby)
• Multiple USB charging ports
• Strong, reliable Wi-Fi
• Coffee maker plus coffee (non-negotiable)
• Iron and steamer
• Extra hangers for suits

Families Need:

• Pack-and-play crib or request option
• High chair or booster seat
• Baby bath tub
• Outlet covers and baby gates
• Kids’ dishes and cups
• Board games and age-appropriate books
• Step stool for bathrooms
• Extra blankets and pillows

Couples/Romantic Getaways Want:

• Wine glasses and wine opener
• Candles (real or LED)
• Premium linens
• Blackout curtains
• Bluetooth speaker for music
• Bathtub (if available)
• Local restaurant recommendations
• Privacy and minimal contact

Remote Workers/Extended Stays Prefer:

• Ergonomic workspace
• Multiple desk lamps
• Reliable high-speed Wi-Fi (minimum 50+ Mbps)
• Full kitchen supplies
• Washing machine and dryer
• Work-friendly seating beyond just bed/couch
• Printer access
• Kitchen table that doubles as workspace

What You Can Actually Skip

You don’t need everything every blog tells you to buy. Here’s what you can skip without hurting your reviews:

Skip the fancy coffee maker. A basic drip coffee maker works fine. That $300 espresso machine will break and guests won’t know how to use it anyway.

Skip excessive decorative pillows. Three on a sofa is plenty. Guests remove them immediately anyway.

Skip the welcome basket. Nice gesture, costs add up fast, and most guests don’t care. The $20 you’d spend on wine and snacks goes further invested in quality basics.

Skip expensive art. Guests barely notice wall decor. Affordable prints from Target or HomeGoods achieve the same visual warmth.

Skip specialty kitchen gadgets. Your stand mixer, food processor, and waffle maker will sit unused. Focus on functional basics.

Skip excessive consumables. Don’t leave full bottles of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion. Provide starter amounts – travel sizes or clearly partial bottles. Guests who need more can buy it.

Inventory Management That Actually Works

Buying in bulk makes sense, but don’t overstock. Here’s the system that works:

Calculate Usage Rates: Track how much toilet paper, paper towels, soap, and other consumables you go through per guest night. After 10-15 bookings, patterns emerge.

Stock 2-3 Months of Consumables: Enough to avoid frequent shopping trips, not so much you’re storing unnecessary inventory. Storage costs money (space) and ties up capital.

Create Restocking Triggers: When supplies hit 30% remaining, reorder. Use Amazon Subscribe & Save for predictable items – it auto-delivers before you run out.

Designate Storage Space: Organize supplies by category. Label shelves. Make it easy for cleaners to restock between guests without texting you questions.

Track Expenses: Know what you’re actually spending per guest on supplies. This matters when you’re calculating your cash-on-cash returns and setting nightly rates.

Quality Over Quantity: One set of great towels beats three sets of scratchy, thin ones. Guests notice quality. So do review scores.

The Real Cost of Stocking an Airbnb

Initial investment to fully stock a one-bedroom Airbnb ranges from $2,000-$4,000 depending on what’s already in the unit and quality level you target.

Rough Budget Breakdown:

• Bedroom: $400-$800 (mattress, bedding, furniture)
• Bathroom: $200-$400 (towels, toiletries, accessories)
• Kitchen: $300-$600 (cookware, dishes, small appliances)
• Living Room: $500-$1,200 (furniture, TV, decor)
• Safety/Emergency: $100-$200 (detectors, extinguisher, first aid)
• Cleaning Supplies: $100-$150 (initial stock)
• Miscellaneous: $200-$400 (miscellaneous items, welcome materials)

Ongoing monthly supply costs per property average $50-$150 depending on booking frequency, guest types, and occupancy rates.

These numbers matter when you’re calculating your actual Airbnb ROI. Supply costs are real operating expenses that eat into profit margins.

Common Supply Mistakes Hosts Make

Mistake 1: Buying Everything at Once

Spread initial purchases over 2-3 shopping trips. You’ll realize what you actually need vs. what bloggers said you needed.

Mistake 2: Cheaping Out on Bedding

Guests forgive a lot, but not uncomfortable beds or scratchy sheets. This is where you invest, not economize.

Mistake 3: Overstocking Toiletries

Providing full-size bottles encourages waste and theft. Travel sizes or refillable dispensers control costs better.

Mistake 4: Ignoring Guest Feedback

If three guests mention missing wine glasses, buy wine glasses. Your reviews are telling you what matters.

Mistake 5: Buying Without Testing

That towel feels great in the store. After five washes, it’s a scratchy mess. Buy one, test it, then commit to the bulk order.

Mistake 6: Forgetting Hidden Essentials

Trash bags, light bulbs, batteries, extension cords – the stuff you don’t think about until you need it and don’t have it. Stock these before your first guest arrives.

Mistake 7: Not Budgeting for Replacement

Everything wears out. Towels fade, sheets pill, cookware warps. Budget 10-15% of your annual supply costs for replacements.

The 80/20 of Airbnb Supplies

If you only have limited budget or time, focus here first. These items create 80% of guest satisfaction:

1. Comfortable, clean mattress with quality sheets
2. Plenty of soft, absorbent towels
3. Working coffee maker with coffee
4. Well-stocked kitchen basics
5. Good Wi-Fi (test it yourself from the couch)
6. Adequate toilet paper and soap
7. Comfortable seating
8. Proper lighting in every room
9. Climate control that works
10. Clean, functioning bathroom

Nail these ten things before worrying about decorative pillows or board games.

The Bottom Line on Airbnb Supplies

Stocking an Airbnb is part science (following Airbnb’s essentials checklist), part art (understanding your specific guests), and part economics (balancing quality with cost control).

The hosts who win this game don’t have the fanciest supplies or most extensive lists. They have the right supplies for their specific property and guests. They buy smart, maintain quality, and continuously adapt based on feedback.

Start with essentials. Add strategically based on guest types. Buy quality where it matters and economize where it doesn’t. Track what works. Adjust accordingly.

The supplies you stock directly impact your reviews, your occupancy rates, and your profitability. Get this right and you’re setting yourself up for five-star reviews and repeat bookings. Get it wrong and you’re competing on price alone.

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