The Ultimate Airbnb & Short-Term Rental Styling Checklist

A well-furnished Airbnb living room featuring a comfy sofa, a stylish accent chair, and chic decor touches. Thoughtful furniture choices create a welcoming space that guests love.

Are you an overwhelmed host struggling to make your Airbnb or short-term rental stand out? You’re not alone. Designing a five-star worthy space can feel daunting when you’re busy managing bookings, cleaning, and everything in between. The good news is that a few key styling upgrades can elevate your rental from simple to stunning – delighting your guests and boosting your reviews. This ultimate checklist guide will walk you through exactly how to do it, step by step.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• 7 essential furniture pieces every rental needs to earn 5-star reviews

• How to create Instagram-worthy “wow moments” guests will photograph and share

• The best fabrics and finishes for rental durability – stay stylish and guest-proof

• Quick decor swaps that make a huge difference in photos and guest experience

• Bonus: A packing list to prep for your first staging photo shoot

By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap to style your space with confidence. Let’s jump in!

1. The 7 Essential Furniture Pieces Every Rental Needs for 5-Star Reviews

When it comes to furnishing your Airbnb, cover the basics brilliantly. Guests notice if something important is missing or if a piece isn’t comfortable. Make sure you have these seven furniture essentials checked off your list:

1. A Comfortable Bed & Quality Mattress: The bed is the most critical item. A queen or king-size bed (if space allows) with a high-quality mattress is non-negotiable for great sleep. Dress it in fresh, white linens and plenty of pillows so guests sink into comfort. A sturdy bed frame with an eye-catching headboard can double as a style statement in the room.

2. Bedside Nightstands with Lamps: Place a nightstand on each side of the bed (or one side in a small room) so guests have a spot for phones, glasses, and a glass of water at night. Add soft bedside lamps for warm lighting – this boosts comfort and hotel-like convenience. (Guests love not fumbling for a switch in the dark!)

3. A Cozy Sofa or Sectional: In the living area, invest in a comfy sofa where guests can unwind. Whether it’s a plush loveseat in a studio or a spacious sectional in a large home, the sofa should invite people to relax. Opt for a durable fabric (more on that later) and add a couple of accent pillows. Bonus points if it doubles as a sleeper sofa for extra sleeping capacity, but only if it’s truly comfortable to sit on.

4. Coffee Table or Accent Tables: Give your guests a place to set down drinks, snacks, and devices. A coffee table in front of the sofa is perfect for this. Choose one with rounded corners if you host families (for safety) and a finish that’s easy to wipe clean. If space is tight or the layout is unique, side tables or nesting tables can do the job. These little surfaces make a big difference in functionality (no one wants to hold their coffee the whole time).

5. Dining Table or Breakfast Bar Seating: Even a short-term rental benefits from an eating area. If there’s room, include a dining table with enough chairs for your unit’s max guest count. In smaller spaces, a kitchen island or breakfast bar with barstools works too. This isn’t just for meals – it often doubles as a workspace for guests. Ensure chairs or stools are comfy and easy to clean (think solid wood or metal with cushions that can handle spills).

6. Storage Dressers or Shelves: Travelers like to unpack and feel at home. Provide a dresser, chest of drawers, or shelving unit so guests can store their clothes and personal items neatly. In bedrooms, a simple dresser or even open shelving with baskets works wonders. Also consider a luggage rack or bench at the foot of the bed – a place to put suitcases makes living out of a bag much easier and keeps the room looking tidy.

7. Entryway Bench or Console (Plus Coat Hooks): First impressions count. If your space has an entryway or foyer, add a small bench or console table. This gives guests a spot to take off shoes, drop keys, or set bags down right as they enter. Mount a few wall hooks or have a coat rack for jackets and umbrellas. This simple addition makes guests feel instantly accommodated and sets an organized tone for their stay.

Together, these seven pieces cover the core needs of any rental, ensuring your guests have all the comforts of home. Revel Sofa tip: All of these essentials can be both stylish and durable. For example, at RevelSofa we curate modern, rental-ready furniture that balances form and function – think hardwood bed frames with timeless designs, sofas that look designer but hold up to real-life guest use, and coffee tables that are chic and scuff-resistant. By choosing the right pieces from the start, you’ll save yourself headaches (and replacement costs) down the line and pave the way for glowing 5-star guest reviews.

2. How to Create Instagram-Worthy “Wow Moments” Guests Will Share

An inviting living room with personality: note the statement chandelier, bold artwork, and cozy layers of texture. These kinds of design “wow moments” catch guests’ eyes and practically beg to be shared on Instagram.

In the age of social media, style sells! Creating a few intentional “Instagrammable” moments in your rental can lead to free marketing as guests snap and share your space online. But you don’t need a designer budget to do this. Focus on small areas or details that pack a punch and reflect your property’s unique personality. Here’s how to wow your guests (and their followers):

• Pick a Focal Point: Design at least one standout feature in each major room. This could be a bold accent wall with peel-and-stick wallpaper or a fresh coat of dramatic paint (imagine a deep teal or sunny yellow behind the bed). It might be a statement piece of furniture like a velvet sofa in a jewel tone or an artisanal live-edge wood coffee table. Even a large piece of local artwork or a trendy neon sign with a fun message can anchor the space. The goal is a focal point that makes guests say “Wow!” the moment they enter – and reach for their cameras.

• Create Cozy-Stylish Nooks: Think about those little corners that make people want to curl up and snap a photo. A well-styled reading nook is a great example: place a stylish accent chair or papasan in a corner, add a soft throw blanket, a small side table with a plant and a cute lamp – voilà, it’s a picture-perfect spot. Window seats with plush cushions, a hanging rattan chair, or even a hammock (indoors or on a patio) also give off relaxing vacation vibes that guests adore. Make sure there’s good lighting (natural light or a floor lamp) to keep it photo-friendly.

• Incorporate Local Flair: To stand out from the generic hotel look, add decor that celebrates your location or the home’s history. In a beach cottage, maybe it’s a gallery wall of framed vintage surf photos. In a mountain cabin, a pair of antique skis or a faux antler decor above the fireplace (like in the photo above) can be conversation pieces. Handmade crafts or local art instantly give your rental a sense of place. These touches not only intrigue guests but also make them more likely to share the story (“Look at this cool handcrafted lamp I found in our Airbnb!”).

• Layer Textures & Details: An Instagram photo is all about details. Style your space with texture and props that invite close-ups. Think fluffy pillows on the sofa, a chunky knit throw blanket, or a plush rug under the coffee table. Add a pop of greenery with potted plants or fresh flowers in a vase. You might drape a soft throw over an armchair, set an open coffee table book about your city’s attractions, or place a tray on the bed with a couple of tea cups as if preparing for breakfast in bed. These small staged details not only look amazing in photos but also make the space feel thoughtfully prepared for guests.

• Mind the Lighting & Angles: Even the coolest decor falls flat without good lighting. Ensure your “wow” areas are well-lit with warm, inviting light. Use floor lamps, string lights, or even candles (LED candles for safety) to create ambiance. Guests will be more inclined to snap photos of a space that glows. Also, consider the backdrop and angles: for instance, position a mirror to reflect something beautiful (like that accent wall or a stylish light fixture) to make photos even more interesting.

Remember, you don’t need to transform your whole house into a showroom – just a few photogenic moments can make your listing memorable. Encourage guests to tag your rental or share their photos, and you’ll build social proof organically. And of course, RevelSofa’s design consulting can help here too: our team loves brainstorming unique styling ideas. From selecting that perfect statement armchair to sourcing local artisan decor, we’re here to help you create magazine-worthy moments that still feel welcoming and real for your guests.

3. Best Fabrics and Finishes for Rental Durability (Stay Stylish and Guest-Proof)

Designing a beautiful rental is pointless if everything wears out after a few guests. The secret to long-term success (and savings) is choosing materials that can take a beating and still look fabulous. Here are the top fabric and finish tips to keep your space stylish and virtually “guest-proof”:

• Performance Fabrics for Upholstery: When selecting sofas, chairs, or upholstered headboards, look for keywords like “performance fabric” or “stain-resistant”. Materials such as Crypton, polyester blends, microfiber, and olefin are excellent at repelling stains and are easy to clean. Even high-quality velvet or chenille can be surprisingly durable if it’s a performance-grade textile (they add a plush look but are made to resist crushing and staining). Try to avoid pure linen or silk upholstery – they soil easily and don’t hold up to heavy use. If you love the linen look, opt for a linen-look synthetic that’s much tougher. The idea is to pick fabrics that clean up with a simple wipe or wash, so that red wine spill from a guest doesn’t become a permanent souvenir on your couch.

• Leather & Faux Leather: Leather sofas or accent chairs can be a smart investment for rentals. Genuine leather is durable, easy to wipe clean, and develops a lived-in patina that still looks good over time. It’s pet-friendly and generally stain-resistant (as long as you attend to spills). If real leather is out of budget, today’s faux leathers (vinyl or vegan leather) have improved a lot – many look and feel close to the real thing and are very durable. Plus, a mid-century modern style leather sofa can instantly elevate your rental’s style quotient. One tip: choose leathers (real or faux) in medium to darker tones or those with a distressed look, which can better hide scratches or marks.

• Removable & Washable Covers: For items like dining chair cushions, sofa slipcovers, or pillow covers, removability is king. Being able to unzip covers and toss them in the washing machine is a lifesaver after a particularly messy guest stay. Consider sofas with fully removable slipcovers or invest in an extra set of cushion covers you can rotate. This way, you can maintain a fresh, unstained look at all times with minimal effort. Even for decorative throw pillows, use inserts with zippered covers so you can wash or replace them as needed.

• Durable Wood Finishes & Surfaces: When it comes to tables, dressers, and wood furniture, construction matters. Solid hardwood or high-quality engineered wood will generally endure better than cheap particleboard. Look for furniture with protective finishes: a sealed or lacquered surface on a coffee table will resist water rings and spills better. Consider laminate or veneer tops for nightstands and dining tables – they often resist scratches and are easy to wipe down (modern laminates can mimic wood or marble beautifully without the upkeep). Glass tables can be cleaned easily too, but remember they show fingerprints and can shatter, so weigh the pros/cons for your audience (maybe avoid glass if hosting kids).

• Rugs and Flooring: Rugs make a room cozy, but in a rental they must hide dirt and handle lots of foot traffic. Choose medium to dark-colored rugs with patterns – they camouflage stains and wear far better than solid light colors. Materials like indoor-outdoor rugs, wool blends, or polypropylene are great because they’re stain-resistant and you can even take some outside to hose off if needed. Steer clear of pure white or high-pile shag rugs in main areas; they’re hard to keep clean. For flooring, if you ever replace it, consider LVP (luxury vinyl plank) or porcelain tile that mimics wood – these are nearly indestructible and waterproof, perfect for rentals.

• Finishing Touch: Protect & Maintain: No material is 100% bulletproof, so add a layer of protection. Use mattress protectors on every bed (guests won’t see it, but it will save your mattress from spills or bedwetting incidents). Put felt pads under chair and table legs to prevent floor scratches. Keep a bottle of fabric protector spray and treat upholstered items periodically to renew their stain resistance. And always have touch-up paint in the unit’s wall colors for quick fixes to scuffs.

Choosing the right fabrics and finishes from the start means you won’t be swapping out furniture every few months. It’s all about smart, future-proof design. At RevelSofa, this philosophy guides our furniture selection – we emphasize commercial-grade durability in our sofas and chairs, using kiln-dried hardwood frames and tough fabrics that stand up to high traffic. We believe you shouldn’t have to sacrifice style for strength, especially in a rental. With the tips above, your space can stay gorgeous and guest-ready for the long haul.

4. Quick Decor Swaps That Make a Huge Difference in Photos and Guest Experience

You might not have the time or budget for a full redesign between bookings – but the good news is, you don’t have to. Small decor changes can refresh your space instantly, keeping your listing photos sharp and your guests delighted. Here are some easy, high-impact swaps to consider:

• Throw Pillow & Blanket Refresh: Swap out your throw pillow covers seasonally or whenever you need a new pop of color. This is one of the fastest ways to update the look of a living room or bedroom. For example, use bright, fun patterns in summer, and cozy knits or rich jewel tones in winter. The same goes for throw blankets – drape a different textured throw on the sofa or bed to change the vibe. These items are relatively inexpensive and easy to store, so you can rotate looks without clutter.

• Artwork & Wall Decor: Tired of the same artwork? Rotate your wall decor for an instant facelift. You could maintain a set of 2-3 art prints per frame and just swap which ones are displayed (store the extras behind the one on display, or keep a portfolio book). Another idea: change up the gallery wall layout or add a statement piece like a woven wall hanging or a decorative mirror. Guests will notice the fresh visuals, especially in photos. Pro tip: Use removable wall hooks to make swaps easy without damaging walls.

• Bedding and Linens: Keep an alternate duvet cover or bedspread on hand to change the look of bedrooms quickly. Maybe have a lighter, airy coverlet for warm months and a thicker, styled duvet for cooler months. Even just folding a different runner or foot blanket across the bed can introduce a new accent color. Make sure any patterns you choose still complement your room’s overall theme. Crisp white sheets are always a smart base; then layer on a colorful or textured quilt when you want a new look.

• Lighting & Lampshades: You’d be amazed how different a room can feel with a change of lighting. Something as simple as replacing a lampshade can alter the style (swap a plain white shade for a rattan or patterned one, for instance). You could also change the color temperature of your light bulbs for different moods – soft warm light for a cozy feel, or bright white for an energizing vibe. String lights or LED candles can be brought in for a touch of magic during photo shoots or around holidays. These little tweaks create ambiance that both photographs well and makes guests feel at home.

• Greenery & Floral Touches: Adding or changing out plants and flowers is a quick win. If you use faux plants, consider rotating them or moving them to different spots for a fresh scene. If you use real ones, swapping in seasonal flowers or a new potted plant can brighten the space (just ensure they’re low-maintenance or that you replace them often). A vase of sunflowers on the dining table one month, and a stylish monstera plant in the living room the next – it keeps things feeling lively and curated. Greenery, whether real or faux, also adds life to listing photos, making the space feel vibrant instead of stagnant.

• Small Decor & Accents: Think about the coffee table decor, shelf items, and kitchen counter accents. These can be easily switched to keep your space interesting. For example, on a coffee table you might alternate between a stack of design books with a candle, and a decorative tray with some faux succulents and magazines. In the bathroom, maybe change out the soap dispenser set and add a new piece of wall art or a fresh plant. These are minor moves, but they stop your space from feeling “stuck” in time. Plus, if something gets worn or broken, you already have other accent pieces in rotation to step in.

The key with quick swaps is to plan a bit of variety into your decor inventory. Have a bin in the closet with those extra pillow covers, art, or decor items that you can pull out as needed. This way, when you sense it’s time for a refresh (or you have a special photoshoot or holiday coming up), you can revive the space without re-buying everything. Your listing will always look up-to-date and thoughtfully styled, which impresses returning guests and new visitors alike.

Lastly, remember that RevelSofa offers free design consultations – we can advise on color schemes and decor pieces that give you maximum versatility. We love helping hosts create that “new look” excitement with just a few swaps and changes. Little efforts like these keep your rental feeling like a boutique experience, and that translates into happy guests and stellar reviews.

Bonus: Packing List for Your First Staging Photo Shoot

So you’ve styled your rental and you’re ready to take stunning photos for your listing – fantastic! A bit of prep on photoshoot day can make a huge difference in the quality of your pictures. Whether you’ve hired a professional photographer or you’re DIY-ing with a smartphone, use this staging photo shoot packing list to ensure you have all the essentials on hand:

• High-Quality Camera (or Smartphone) & Accessories: If using a camera, make sure batteries are charged and you have backup memory cards. For smartphones, ensure it’s fully charged and clean the lens for crystal-clear shots. Wide-angle lens attachment (for phone or camera) is a big plus to capture small spaces. And don’t forget a tripod – keeping the camera steady (and using a timer or remote shutter) will result in sharper images, especially in lower light.

• Lighting Gear: Great lighting = great photos. Pack some extra light bulbs (soft white LED bulbs work well) to swap into lamps or overheads for a consistent warm glow in every room. If you have access to photography lighting, bring a softbox or ring light to brighten dark corners. Even a couple of inexpensive clamp lights with daylight bulbs can help fill a room with light. Aim for balanced lighting to minimize harsh shadows – open all the curtains to let natural light in and turn on all the lamps. You might shoot at mid-morning or early afternoon for the best natural light.

• Cleaning & Tidying Supplies: Right before shooting, you’ll want everything pristine. Have a microfiber cloth to wipe smudges off windows, mirrors, and shiny surfaces. Bring glass cleaner for any glass tables or windows that need a last-minute polish. A lint roller or small vacuum is great for picking up dust or crumbs on sofas, bedding, or rugs. Keep a pack of wipes or multipurpose cleaner and paper towels handy for any surprise spills or spots. It’s amazing what the camera can catch that the eye might miss, so do one last scan of each room for fingerprints, stray hairs, or wrinkles.

• Staging Props & Textiles: Pack a few extra styling props to enhance scenes. Examples: a bowl of fresh fruit or a loaf of crusty bread for the kitchen, a couple of coffee mugs and a magazine for a coffee table, or a cute tray for the bed with fake breakfast setup (orange juice, croissants, etc.). Have some plush towels (new and neatly rolled or hung) ready for the bathroom shot. You might even bring spare throw pillows or blankets in case the ones on site don’t look perfect on camera – sometimes a different color or texture photographs better. A vase of fresh flowers or a live plant can also add a vibrant touch in any room.

• Steamer or Iron: Wrinkled bedding or curtains can detract from an otherwise beautiful photo. Bring a clothing steamer (or iron + ironing board if a steamer isn’t available) to quickly smooth out duvet covers, pillow shams, curtain hems, or even that accent tablecloth you laid out. In minutes you can eliminate creases, making everything look crisp and hotel-like. Pro tip: also steam the shower curtain if you have one – it instantly elevates the bathroom’s look.

• Toolkit for Small Fixes: It’s smart to have a basic toolkit for any unexpected snafus. Include things like a few command strips or push pins (if a piece of art falls or you decide to quickly re-hang something for the shot), a screwdriver and hammer (in case you need to tighten a table leg or adjust a door that won’t stay open), and some extension cords to hide in case you need to plug in a lamp off-camera for extra light. Clear tape or fishing line can MacGyver a lot of staging issues (like holding curtains in just the right position!).

• Extra Set of Eyes (or Hands): If possible, have a friend, co-host, or helper with you. They can move items around while you snap photos, point out things you might not see, or even model as a “guest” in a lifestyle shot if you plan to include people in a few photos. Plus, shooting goes faster with someone to help reposition furniture or re-fold towels on the fly.

Once you have all these items gathered, you’ll be ready to shoot like a pro. Take lots of shots from multiple angles for each room – you can always edit down to the best ones later. And remember to stage each scene with your target guest in mind: set the dining table as if for a romantic dinner if you cater to couples, or arrange a game night setup in the living room if you host families. These thoughtful staging cues can resonate with viewers and help them imagine their stay.

Finally, after the shoot, reward yourself! You’ve tackled one of the most important tasks – creating beautiful visuals that will market your rental 24/7 online. With your styled space and gorgeous photos, you’re well on your way to impressing guests before they even arrive.

Ready to Elevate Your Rental? (Conclusion & Next Steps)

You’ve got the knowledge – now it’s time to put it into action and transform your Airbnb or short-term rental into the showpiece it deserves to be. Remember, you don’t have to do it all alone! RevelSofa.com is here to support you at every step of your styling journey:

• Shop Modern Rental-Ready Furniture: Browse our curated selection of furniture that’s perfect for short-term rentals – from durable sofas and stylish beds to multipurpose pieces and decor accents. Each item is chosen with an eye for design and durability, so you can invest with confidence. Elevate your space with furniture that wows guests and stands up to turnover after turnover.

• Book a Free Design Consultation: Not sure where to start or how to tie it all together? Our friendly RevelSofa design experts are just a click away. Schedule a free consultation and we’ll help you brainstorm layout ideas, choose color palettes, or select the right pieces to match your vibe. We love helping hosts create unforgettable spaces that keep guests coming back.

Your journey to a five-star space is just beginning. With this ultimate styling checklist in hand, you can tackle one section at a time and watch your rental’s transformation unfold. Here’s to creating an Airbnb that not only looks amazing in photos but feels like a dream home for every guest. Happy hosting, and welcome to the world of stylish success with a little help from RevelSofa!