Episode Details

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 Covered

Harold’s insight on traveling to Cali, Colombia

• Beautiful weather, third largest city in country
• Some COVID restrictions but open to air travel

Harold’s background in the hospitality industry

• 8 years with Marriott Hotels in New York City
• Worked way up to management in short time

The pros and cons of outsourcing linen management

• Saves time
• More costly, less control

How to decide what type of linens to offer guests

• Look at what competitors offer, guest feedback
• Consider type of travelers who stay with you
• Find balance between durability and quality

Harold’s advice on choosing the best linens for a STR

• Thread count from 200 to 300
• Cotton-polyester blend (soft and durable)
• All white associated w/ cleanliness + comfort
• Keep three sets on hand for each unit

The don’ts of washing and drying STR linens

• Don’t ball up sheets or overload machines
• Don’t use harsh chemicals
• Don’t put detergent directly on linens
• Don’t use too much detergent
• Don’t dry on high heat or let sit in heat
• Don’t use fabric softener

The do’s of washing and drying STR linens

• Do spot treat stains
• Do use mild detergent
• Do unfurl linens
• Do use medium heat settings
• Do soak in vinegar + baking soda regularly

How to get rid of stains on linens

• Treat grease and oil w/ dish detergent
• Use denatured alcohol on makeup stains
• Get rid of dirt w/ baking soda + vinegar
• Try baking soda or salt to lift wine
• Only use bleach as last resort

How to extend the life span of your STR linens

• Post house rules, inventory and instructions
• Provide makeup wipes or black towels
• Offer guests disposable towels for accidents

Connect with Harold

EXSTR Apartments

Resources