Airbnb Essentials: The Ultimate Guide to Creating a Stylish, Comfortable, and Five-Star-Worthy Stay

Whether you’re furnishing your very first Airbnb or giving an existing space a much-needed refresh, your goal is simple: create a beautiful, comfortable environment guests won’t want to leave—and can’t help raving about.

From furniture to linens to kitchen must-haves, this guide covers everything you need to turn your short-term rental into a professionally curated, high-performing space.

1. Stylish, Comfortable, & Affordable Furniture

Great furniture doesn’t have to break the bank. A clean, modern aesthetic with durable pieces instantly elevates your listing photos and guest experience.

Must-Have Furniture Pieces

• Sofa: Choose a mid-century or modern sectional with washable cushion covers.
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• Accent Chairs: A pair of neutral accent chairs adds both style and seating flexibility.
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• Coffee Table: Opt for something sturdy with either a lift-top or hidden storage.
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• Bedroom Sets: Affordable platform beds with no-squeak frames and matching nightstands are essential.
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• Dining Table & Chairs: Look for easy-clean surfaces and space-saving designs.
  ➤ Outdoor set https://amzn.to/43zUivn ➤ Indoor set https://amzn.to/3M1mcKG

Design Tip

Stick to neutrals for big furniture pieces, then use pops of color through pillows, art, and throws—easy to swap based on seasons or guest wear.

2. Cozy, Photo-Ready Decor

Decor sets the tone for the entire space. Aim for warm, welcoming, and uncluttered.

Decor Essentials

• Throw Pillows & Blankets: Mix textures for a luxe feel without overspending.
  ➤ Blankets https://amzn.to/4oGYwtA https://amzn.to/48e6STI
  ➤ Large Pillow Covers https://amzn.to/4o3LHZj Large Pillow Inserts https://amzn.to/3LLblEE

• Wall Art: Choose calming coastal, abstract, or nature-inspired art.
  ➤ 3 piece set for a focal point in the room https://amzn.to/4phlLdU

• Area Rugs: Soft, washable rugs anchor each room and photograph beautifully.
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• Lighting: Table and floor lamps with warm bulbs create instant ambiance. Modern features such as USB/AC outlets are also convenient.
  ➤ Floor lamps https://amzn.to/47H3alo Table Lamps https://amzn.to/4i3mk8G

• Plants: Go faux unless you have local management who can maintain real plants.
  ➤ 6 ft tall https://amzn.to/4qXebGV Smaller option https://amzn.to/43y2wnN

Design Tip

Avoid clutter—choose a few strong pieces rather than small tchotchkes. Clean design = better photos = more bookings.

3. Luxury Spa-Quality Towels & Linens

Guests notice bedding more than almost any other feature. High-quality linens will boost your reviews (and help you avoid “rough towel” complaints).

Bedroom Linens

• Hotel-Grade Sheets (Cotton or Microfiber):
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• Duvet Insert & Duvet Cover: Go with white—it’s timeless and easy to bleach.
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• Pillows: Provide soft and firm options to accommodate all sleep styles.
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Bathroom Essentials

• Luxury Spa Towels: Think plush, oversized, and crisp white.
  ➤ 18 piece set for $66 https://amzn.to/3K0nQvD

• Makeup Towels: Prevent makeup stains on your white linens.
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• Bath Mat & Shower Curtain: Choose simple and clean—avoid patterned fabric curtains that mold.
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  ➤ easy to clean bath mat https://amzn.to/3X1AXzA

4. Fully Stocked Kitchen Essentials

A well-equipped kitchen is one of the biggest reasons guests choose Airbnb over hotels.

Must-Have Kitchenware

• Versatile Cookware Set (Nonstick or Ceramic):
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• Knife Set & Cutting Boards:
  ➤ knife set https://amzn.to/3LETAHb cutting board https://amzn.to/4nVQ3S0

• Dish Set (Service for 8–12):
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• Glassware & Mugs:
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• Baking Sheets, Utensils & Mixing Bowls:
  ➤ baking sheets https://amzn.to/4r3pWLN utensils https://amzn.to/3JPDpGu mixing bowls that double as storage containers https://amzn.to/3JEuDLr

• Coffee Station:
  ➤ offer both drip and k-cup https://amzn.to/4ilzE8F
  ➤ storage https://amzn.to/3WYVSTR

Hospitality Bonus Items

• Wine opener

• Salt/pepper set https://amzn.to/3XimrDT oil bottle https://amzn.to/4i2DbII

• Foil, plastic wrap & zip bags

• Countertop ice maker ➤ https://amzn.to/4o1AXe7

5. Signature Scent: Hotel-Quality Aromas

A fresh, clean scent is one of the first impressions guests experience—and one of the most memorable.

Hotel Scent Machine

• Choose a cold-air diffuser with safe, long-lasting fragrance oils.
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• Suggested scents: White Tea, Himalayan Bamboo, Clean Cotton.
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Tip

Place the diffuser in your entryway or living room on a 1–2 hour timer before check-ins.

6. Hosting Extras That Boost Reviews

Small touches make a big impact.

• Welcome basket with snacks/drinks
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• Refillable bottles for shampoo/conditioner/body wash or mini toiletries
  ➤ Refillable bottles https://amzn.to/4p4P17e Bulk supplies https://amzn.to/48h6Dao Mini toiletries https://amzn.to/4oJTgWh

• Board games or puzzles
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• Guest book for check-in comments
  ➤ Mountain theme https://amzn.to/4rgUyK6 Coastal theme https://amzn.to/4oBxbcg

Final Thoughts

Creating a five-star Airbnb doesn’t require a huge budget—it just requires smart choices, attention to comfort, and a few luxury touches that guests remember long after they check out.