As Airbnb hosts, we can get used to our own spaces. We stop noticing the small details like dated cabinet pulls, the old squeaky faucet, or the tattered plastic coffee organizer that’s been there since day one.
But guests see everything with fresh eyes. They notice if a space feels outdated, cluttered, or thrown together.
If your kitchen feels functional but not memorable, a few small DIY upgrades can make a huge difference — without the cost of a full remodel. Here are some ideas to refresh your space:
1. Upgrade Your Hardware
Swapping out cabinet hardware is one of the easiest ways to elevate the look of your kitchen. If your hardware is looking dated or plain, consider something with more texture, contrast, or pattern to add visual interest.
It’s a small detail, but one that guests will absolutely notice.
You can find the exact pulls shown above here.
2. Swap Your Soap Bottles
If you have a brand-name hand and dish soap sitting out on the counter, this can unintentionally make your space feel cluttered.
Swapping them for a matching set can instantly create a cohesion and gives your sink area a more styled, intentional look. This is an upgrade that photographs really well in listing photos.
3. Add Spider Plants
I know – adding plants to your Airbnb sounds like adding another chore. But in my experience, our 2 spider plants have been surprisingly low maintenance and consistently complimented by guests.
Spider plants are known for natural air purification, increasing indoor humidity, and are completely safe/non-toxic to pets. I left out a small sign near our plants saying this:
“Hi! I’m a spider plant. I help purify the air and I’m completely non-toxic to pets. If I look a little dry, feel free to give me some water, but no pressure. Thanks!”
4. Ditch The K-Cup Holder
Traditional K-cup holders are practical, but visually they often create more clutter. Instead, try storing pods inside a large ceramic or wooden utensil holder for a cleaner, more elevated look.
You can find the utensil holder shown above here.
If you’re tight on counter space, you can opt for a k-cup shelf that goes under your coffee maker. This one appears upscale on a budget.
5. Under Cabinet Lighting
Under cabinet lighting is a small project with a huge payoff. It instantly makes the kitchen feel luxurious and allows guests to skip the overhead lighting if they prefer a softer ambiance.
These LED Strip Lights are extremely easy to install (peel and stick), plug into the wall, and include a remote control for easy use by guests.
These Motion Activated Lights are also easy to install. Keep in mind because these do not plug directly into the wall, they will need to be recharged every now and again.
Also keep in mind that warm light tones feel cozier and photograph better than cool white lighting.
6. Upgrade Your Faucet
Nothing dates a kitchen faster than an old, squeaky, or wobbly faucet. Upgrading this can drastically change the overall look of your kitchen, and most modern faucets are surprisingly DIY-friendly.
For a budget-friendly faucet, I would recommend this one from Amazon.
If you’re able to splurge, we consistently receive compliments on our Delta faucet. You can also check Delta’s Outlet Deals page for good deals on quality Delta products.
7. Add Tile Backsplash
I know this one sounds a bit ambitious, but I promise the impact is huge. Take a look at how much a fun tile updated our Airbnb kitchen:
When choosing tile for a rental, don’t be afraid to add personality. What might feel hold for your own home can photograph beautifully and give your listing a “wow” factor that others might be missing.
When we chose the tile above, I worried it might be “too much.” It ended up being exactly the right amount of character.
If you choose to go with a color tile, repeat it subtly throughout the space to create cohesion. For example, I had a blue milk frother on the counter, an orange soap dispenser, and blue bar stools.
Final Thoughts:
An elevated kitchen doesn’t require a full renovation.
A few thoughtful, intentional details (the kind guests may not consciously notice but still absolutely feel) are what turn a nice stay into a 5-star experience.
