37. Trash Talk for Your Airbnb: Waste Management Tips

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Hey, it’s Brittany! Today we’re tackling one of the least glamorous—but most critical—parts of running a short-term rental: trash management. I know, it’s not the hot tub or the Instagram-worthy décor, but it’s a behind-the-scenes system that can make or break your guest experience and your reviews. From knowing how local trash service works before you even buy a property, to setting up systems so guests never wonder where to toss a banana peel, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned (the hard way) about handling garbage like a pro. You’ll hear real-world stories from my own properties and my clients’—including raccoon break-ins, maggot disasters, and the guest who tried to charge me $5 for taking out the trash. This episode will help you prevent avoidable complaints, keep your neighbors happy, and maintain a 5-star cleanliness rating. 🔑 Key Takeaways for STR Quality Control Do your homework before buying Is trash collection included in taxes or do you need a private vendor? How often is trash picked up? Weekly or biweekly recycling? Does the trash truck even service the property location? Match capacity to your guest load Large homes = more trash. Add extra bins for properties with 8+ guests to avoid overflow and review dings. Label your bins clearly Not all towns use color-coded lids. Guests appreciate clear recycling instructions. Assign bin duty Decide who will roll bins out and back—guests, cleaners, neighbors, or a trash service. Budget for extra pay if cleaners handle it. Set rules for what goes in the trash Ban items like fish carcasses or large objects that attract pests or cause smells. Consider signage on bins for clear guest guidelines. 🎧 Why Listen to This Episode? Because trash isn’t glamorous—but it’s essential. Getting it wrong costs you time, money, and 5-star reviews. Getting it right keeps guests happy, neighbors quiet, and your property running smoothly without last-minute scrambles. 📌 Mentioned in the Episode Maximize your profits and get that money! Get your first month FREE and receive $10 off your first paid month when you click on the link below! Link: PriceLabs Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates. 🤝 Let’s Connect Thinking about improving your Airbnb’s trash system? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your setup! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out. 🛠 Work With Me Want to start or scale your own short-term rental business? Check out the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator to learn how to find, launch, and manage your STRs with confidence. ⏱ Chapters 00:00 – Why Trash Management Matters 01:36 – The Three Pre-Purchase Trash Questions 06:50 – City vs. Rural Trash Realities 11:12 – When Trash Service Isn’t an Option 13:50 – Matching Bin Capacity to Guest Count 15:50 – Labeling & Recycling Rules 17:20 – Who Rolls the Bins Out? 21:25 – Rural Property Trash Solutions 26:20 – What Can & Can’t Go in the Bins 29:20 – Trash Done Right vs. Trash Done Wrong 30:18 – Building Trash Costs Into Your STR Budget 🔁 Subscribe and Share If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap on your favorite podcast platform and share it with a fellow host who needs a trash system upgrade!