The foundation of short-term rentals is a good night’s sleep. That’s the whole point, right? Everything else about the short-term rental experience is fluff if a guest doesn’t sleep well. This blog post will help you find the best bed for Airbnbs in your portfolio. Let’s dive in.
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Why choosing the right bed matters
Your guests likely booked your home because it has awesome amenities or is close to where they’re trying to go. Yet, a good night’s sleep is the foundation of their stay. If they have a bad night’s sleep, you’re going to hear about it. Additionally, a good night’s sleep leads to better reviews. Better reviews lead to that coveted Superhost status and ultimately more bookings and money in your pocket.
Furthermore, a better bed is an investment. Buy once, cry once, as they say. Meaning, investing in a nicer bed from the get-go will save you the headache (and financial pain) of continually updating and replacing lower-quality beds.
What to look for
Not all beds are created equal. Remember the following when shopping for the perfect bed for your short-term rental.
1. How comfortable is the mattress?
Obviously, the mattress is the most important part of the bed. Typically, a medium-firm mattress is a nice neutral choice. You’ll then need to choose between memory foam, a hybrid, or latex. Memory foam is a good option for reducing motion transfer, so folks don’t feel their partner squirming around the bed. Hybrids are also good because they combine memory foam and inner springs that offer both comfort and durability. Lastly, latex is an eco-friendly option, but it can be pretty expensive, and some guests may have latex allergies.
2. Is the bed frame sturdy?
Next, the bed frame. Nobody likes a rickety or squeaky bed frame when they move on and off of the bed. Plus, it just screams low-quality. Look for frames that are made from solid wood or metal.
Further, platform beds are an option that often come with built-in slats so you don’t need a box spring. Alternatively, adjustable beds are a luxurious feature that allows guests to elevate their head and feet. Fancy!
3. Fit the vibe
Of course, you want the bed to match the overall vibe of your rental. For example, a heavy wooden bed frame would make more sense in a cabin than a cozy New York City apartment.
4. What size bed do you need?
Ultimately, what bed size you get will have to depend on the space. That said, a Queen is typically a safe bet. A few thoughts:
- Primary Airbnb Bedroom ⇒ King or Queen bed
- Guest Room ⇒ Queen
- Kids Room ⇒ Twin or Bunk Beds
5. Keep it clean
Don’t forget hygiene! Choose a mattress with waterproof, washable mattress protectors to defend against spills and stains. It also doesn’t hurt to purchase hypoallergenic options.
Some of our favorite brands
Below are a few tried-and-true brands that have found success in the short-term rental industry with guests and hosts alike.
Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress (Budget-Friendly)
- Comfortable, durable, and affordable.
- CertiPUR-US certified, so it’s safe and eco-friendly.
- Perfect for smaller budgets while still keeping guests happy.
Tuft & Needle Adaptive Foam Mattress (Mid-Range)
- Offers amazing comfort with cooling gels to prevent overheating.
- Medium-firm, great for a variety of sleepers.
Saatva Classic Mattress (Luxury)
- A hybrid mattress blending innerspring durability with plush pillow-top comfort.
- Comes with a 12-month trial and premium build quality.
IKEA Malm Bed Frame (Versatile Style)
- Affordable yet stylish platform bed with a sleek modern design.
- Pair it with storage drawers to maximize utility for your guests.
Zinus Suzanne Metal and Wood Platform Bed Frame (Industrial Charm)
- A sturdy platform bed combining metal framework with natural wood accents for a chic industrial look.
- Easy to assemble and no box spring needed, offering both convenience and durability.
Allewie Upholstered Platform Bed Frame (Cozy Elegance)
- A modern upholstered bed frame featuring a padded headboard for maximum comfort and style.
- Designed with sturdy wooden slats for reliable support, eliminating the need for a box spring.
- Perfect for adding a touch of elegance and warmth to any bedroom.
Bonus tips
Keep a few extra things in mind to really elevate the “wow” factor when hosting:
- Invest in sheets with a high-thread-count.
- Have extra blankets on hand – some guests get chilly!
- Have a bedside table on both sides of the bed.
- Offer a variety of pillows with different firmness. Some guests prefer soft, while others prefer a bit firmer.
Final thoughts
Sleep is the foundation of an overnight stay. Putting thought into your mattress, bed frame, and bedding can and will set you apart from your competition. It can be easy to focus on the exciting amenities like pools and saunas, but at its core, hosting is about providing a great night’s sleep to travelers. Your guests will remember if they had a good night’s sleep, and their reviews will reflect that.
Host Tools provides an automated, unified calendar for short-term rental hosts, allowing you to seamlessly list on all major channels. Start your free trial today!
