How to Manage Your Linen Efficiently

What kind of linens should you buy for your short-term rentals? Should you focus on quality or durability? And how do you take care of the bedsheets and towels so that they last longer?Harold Gonzalez is the Cofounder of EXSTR Apartments, a STR property management company based in Cali, Colombia, where ‘the weather is hot, the drinks are cold and you’re always welcome.’ Harold got his start in hospitality working for Marriott International in New York City, and after eight years in the hotel industry, he transitioned to vacation rentals. Today, Harold and his business partner, Patrick, manage a portfolio of 21 units—including my penthouse in Cali! Harold has special expertise in maintaining linens, and he recently led a training on the subject in our STR Profit Academy.On this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, Harold joins me to explain how to manage your linen efficiently, offering insight on how to decide what type of bedsheets and towels to offer your guests and find the right balance between durability and quality. He shares the do’s and don’ts of washing and drying linens for a short-term rental, describing how to get rid of difficult stains without using harsh chemicals. Listen in for Harold’s advice on deciding whether to outsource linen management or take care of it in-house and learn how to extend the life span of the bedding and towels in your Airbnb units.Topics CoveredHarold’s insight on traveling to Cali, ColombiaBeautiful weather, third largest city in countrySome COVID restrictions but open to air travelHarold’s background in the hospitality industry8 years with Marriott Hotels in New York CityWorked way up to management in short timeThe pros and cons of outsourcing linen managementSaves timeMore costly, less controlHow to decide what type of linens to offer guestsLook at what competitors offer, guest feedbackConsider type of travelers who stay with youFind balance between durability and qualityHarold’s advice on choosing the best linens for a STRThread count from 200 to 300Cotton-polyester blend (soft and durable)All white associated w/ cleanliness + comfortKeep three sets on hand for each unitThe don’ts of washing and drying STR linensDon’t ball up sheets or overload machinesDon’t use harsh chemicalsDon’t put detergent directly on linensDon’t use too much detergentDon’t dry on high heat or let sit in heatDon’t use fabric softenerThe do’s of washing and drying STR linensDo spot treat stainsDo use mild detergentDo unfurl linensDo use medium heat settingsDo soak in vinegar + baking soda regularlyHow to get rid of stains on linensTreat grease and oil w/ dish detergentUse denatured alcohol on makeup stainsGet rid of dirt w/ baking soda + vinegarTry baking soda or salt to lift wineOnly use bleach as last resortHow to extend the life span of your STR linensPost house rules, inventory and instructionsProvide makeup wipes or black towelsOffer guests disposable towels for accidentsConnect with HaroldEXSTR ApartmentsResourcesSTR Profit AcademyYour Porter [Discount Code PAD]Email [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.