We don't need to explain the fact that furniture is essential to a short-term rental. However, furniture can also do so much more than that. The right furniture can elevate the experience you offer and create a fantastic vacation environment for your guests.
Setting aside personal style—because although it's important, style is very subjective—we'll detail the furniture that you absolutely need to have in each room of your rental, so that you can create an inviting atmosphere that makes every guest feel right at home.
Here are the rooms we'll take a look at for furnishing your Airbnb:
- Bedrooms
- Bathrooms
- Living Room
- Dining Room
- Kitchen
- Patio/Outdoor Spaces
Trouble finding the perfect furniture or amenity for your Airbnb? The professional design team at Summer is here to help you find, purchase, and install the right amenities for your Airbnb property.
How We Selected the Best Furniture for Airbnbs
Choosing the right furniture for your short-term rental is not just about filling the space; it’s about crafting a whole experience for your guests. In deciding what to fill each room with, we considered various factors, including durability and your guests' comfort.
Again, aesthetic appeal is entirely subjective, so we can't make any concrete suggestions. However, we will say that it's important to create a cohesive effect in your property to transform a plain rental into a warm, inviting haven for your guests.
Don't just purchase the cheapest furniture that will "do the job"—spend time and invest in furniture that will enhance your property's value and appeal.
Another thing to take note of is who exactly your guests are. Airbnbs that cater to business people require furniture that family-friendly properties won't necessarily need, and vice versa.
To help you on this exciting journey of furnishing your rental, we’ve compiled a list of must-haves. Of course, feel free to add some extras if your space, and budget, allows it. Now, let's get into the essentials to ensure your property is not just well-equipped, but inviting.
1. Best Bedroom Airbnb Furniture
The bedroom should be a safe haven for your guests. When it comes to outfitting the bedrooms in your Airbnb, creating a cozy and welcoming environment is key.
Here are the items your bedrooms need to ensure your guests have a fantastic stay:
- Comfortable Bed: Invest in a quality mattress and a stylish but supportive bed frame that complements your decor.
- Bedding: High-quality sheets, soft blankets (or a duvet for colder nights), a mattress protector, and comfortable pillows are paramount.
- Nightstands: One on either side of the bed—equipped with lamps for a warm glow.
- Dressers or Wardrobes: You need ample storage for guests to unpack and settle in during their stay.
- Mirrors: A full-length mirror and a smaller one to give guests the space to get ready comfortably.
- Curtains or Blinds: Ensures privacy and allows guests to control the light as they wish.
- Chargers and Outlets: Don't forget easily accessible power outlets! Guests often bring tons of devices, so charging stations—with USB ports—can be a very nice touch.
- Cozy Rug: A warm touch that can enhance the comfort of the room.
- Seating: If your bedroom has the space, add an armchair or two in the corner: guests will always appreciate having an extra seating option aside from the bed.
- Decorative Touches: Wall art or photos that reflect your tastes or even the local area, adding personality to your space.
- Good Lighting: A mix of ambient and task lighting to create a soothing atmosphere.
Depending on how you market your Airbnb (e.g., family-friendly, etc.), you may want to add some extras like a foldable crib that you can store in a closet, or even pet beds and bowls.
2. Best Bathroom Airbnb Furniture
Bathrooms shouldn't just be functional—they should be comfortable as well. And the right furniture can make all the difference!
Here are the pieces you’ll need for your Airbnb bathroom:
- Vanity : A stylish vanity not only provides storage but also adds elegance. Look for one with ample counter space.
- Storage Cabinets: Provides easy access to towels, toiletries, and other essentials. Open shelves can also be a chic way to display decorative items or plants.
- Mirror: A large mirror helps guests prepare for their day and can make the space feel bigger and brighter.
- Shower Curtain or Screen: Choose one that aligns with your bathroom theme while offering privacy and helping to keep water contained.
- Towel Racks or Hooks: Ensures guests can easily hang towels or clothes.
- Bathroom Bench or Stool: A spot for guests to place their items or to sit while getting ready will always be appreciated.
- Wastebasket: A stylish bin is essential for keeping the bathroom clean and tidy.
- Bath Mat: A soft, plush mat adds comfort and warmth after a shower or bath.
- Laundry Basket: Having a dedicated space for dirty towels and clothes keeps things organized, especially for longer stays (i.e., weeklong vacations).
Remember, a bathroom can be so much more than just practical, but never trade practicality for aesthetics. Instead, invest in furniture that's not only stylish, but also extremely useful.
3. Best Living Room Airbnb Furniture
The living room is more than just the main space of your rental. It's where the moments that matter take place and where guests can kick back and unwind together. The right furniture can enhance these experiences.
Here are some key living room pieces to consider for your Airbnb property:
- Sofa or Couch: A comfortable and stylish sofa is the centerpiece of your living room. Opt for one that encourages lounging yet reflects Airbnb's style.
- Coffee Table: This is not just a place for drinks and snacks! A well-chosen coffee table can be a conversation starter. Consider materials that complement your sofa while providing enough space for books, games, or other decorative pieces.
- Accent Chairs: These add both comfort and character.
- Media Center: A stylish unit for the TV and media devices can help keep things organized. Look for one that combines storage with aesthetics.
- Bookshelves or Display Units: Add some character to your rental by displaying your favorite books, local travel guides, and decor items.
- Throw Pillows and Blankets: Don’t underestimate the power of these "fluff" pieces! Bright, cozy throw pillows and soft, inviting blankets can add warmth and personality.
- Area Rug: A beautiful area rug can tie the entire room together, as well as make everything warmer, quieter, and overall more comfortable.
- Side Tables: These are perfect for holding drinks or books while being stylish and functional. Look for designs that can double as statement pieces.
The living room should tie the look of your rental together and create a comfortable space for your guests to enjoy.
4. Best Dining Room Airbnb Furniture
Aside from the living room, the dining room is another space where guests can spend time together.
Here are some essential dining room pieces for your Airbnb:
- Dining Table: A beautiful table serves as the heart of the dining room, so make sure that it has enough seating space for every one of your guests (i.e., if your property advertises room for 4 people, choose a dining table that can comfortably accommodate that number).
- Chairs: Opt for comfortable and stylish dining chairs that complement your table.
- Tableware: Invest in quality tableware, including plates, cutlery, and glassware.
- Centerpiece: Consider adding a pretty centerpiece—like a unique decorative piece—to create a focal point for your table.
- Lighting: Good lighting can transform the dining experience. Choose a warm chandelier or pendant lights that create a cozy ambiance.
- Buffet or Sideboard: This piece not only provides valuable storage for your dining essentials but also serves as a convenient surface for serving meals or displaying decor.
Through careful selection of your dining room essentials, you can provide your guests with the perfect space for enjoyable meals!
5. Best Kitchen Airbnb Furniture
The kitchen is more than just a place to cook; you know what they say, it's the "heart" of the home. To create an inviting kitchen that inspires your guests to make use of the space, consider these elements:
- Appliances: Invest in reliable, modern appliances. Look for efficient versions that save time and energy. You'll need at least a coffee machine, a microwave, an oven or airfryer (depending on the size of the space), a stovetop, a fridge and freezer, and a dishwasher.
- Cookware & Utensils: Stock your kitchen with a great set of pots, pans, and utensils. High-quality cookware can make all the difference in meal preparation!
- Extra Counter Space: Clear, uncluttered surfaces are essential. Consider incorporating an island or a breakfast bar that not only provides additional workspace but also makes meal prep a breeze.
- Bar Stools: Perfect for a more casual dining atmosphere, bar stools offer a more flexible seating arrangement when guests don't want to head over to the dining area.
- Storage Solutions: Clever organization can maximize kitchen efficiency. Use stylish containers or open shelving to keep frequently used items within reach.
- Decor & Personal Touches: Add character to your kitchen with fun wall art, decorative jars, or even fresh herbs in pots. These touches make the space feel homey and welcoming.
A well-appointed kitchen should be designed to enhance a guest's cooking and dining experience, so make sure they have everything they need for a seamless stay.
6. Best Patio/Outdoor Spaces Airbnb Furniture
Developing a welcoming outdoor area can elevate vacations to a whole new level!
Consider these major pieces when designing your Airbnb patio space:
- Seating Arrangements: Comfortable, stylish seating is crucial for encouraging relaxation and conversation. Opt for a mix of lounge chairs, benches, and dining sets to accommodate a wide range of gatherings.
- Shade: To keep your guests cool and comfortable, incorporate shade options like umbrellas, pergolas, or awnings.
- Outdoor Lighting: As we mentioned, lighting can set the mood—and you have so many options for the outdoors! String lights, lanterns, or solar-powered garden lights are perfect for creating that magical ambiance.
- Potted Plants: Bring life to your patio with potted plants, flowers, or even a small herb garden.
- Decor Pieces: Is your outdoor space lacking personality? That's easily remedied by adding outdoor rugs, cushions, and decorative pillows. These elements will always be cozy and welcoming.
- Fire Pit or Grill: For chilly evenings, an outdoor fire pit or grill can be the perfect piece of furniture that will set your Airbnb apart.
A thoughtfully-curated outdoor space isn't always a necessity, but it does add that "wow" factor to your rental. If you want to make your guests truly feel at home, then don't hesitate to invest in this corner of your property.
Bottom Line
Every host wants to create an unforgettable experience for their guests, and we're here to tell you that it's all in the details. So, spruce up your indoor and outdoor spaces! Make them cozy, stylish, and full of personal touches.
However, keep in mind that furniture should be about function, too. Consider what your guests need and want, and start from there! And, choosing the right products for your Airbnb is just the first step in maximizing your rental’s potential.
With SummerOS, you can streamline daily operations by centralizing tasks like guest communication, property management, and owner relationships into one platform, making it easier to manage your business efficiently. With Summer Forecast, you’ll gain advanced data insights, including revenue projections, occupancy trends, and market comps, to help you optimize pricing, evaluate new investments, and improve overall property performance.
Whether you're an individual host or managing a full vacation rental portfolio, Summer helps you make smarter decisions and boost your revenue. Explore SummerOS and Forecast today!
