Learn how to furnish your Airbnb effectively by defining your property's aesthetic and focusing on functionality and comfort. We recommend where to purchase furniture based on your market and price tier. 

Airbnb Furniture: How to Furnish & Where to Buy

The first step to buying the right Airbnb furniture is defining your property’s aesthetic based on your market and price tier.

Prioritize functionality and comfort when choosing furniture. Balance guest needs, quality, and cost effectiveness.

Protect your investment in Airbnb furniture with security deposits and vacation rental insurance.

Picture “grandma’s house.” An overstuffed floral sofa. Doilies on the coffee table. Maybe an old stuffed animal on the couch. It’s a highly curated experience, whether you like the aesthetic or not. If grandma threw a modern end table into the mix with gleaming chrome legs, it would stick out like a sore thumb and ruin her endearing, albeit musty, feng shui.

Your furniture is a reflection of the experience you’re offering, especially your price tier. Upscale West Elm pieces will be out of place in a budget rental, just like IKEA furnishings would be in a luxury property. It’s important that your Airbnb furniture is cohesive no matter where it comes from, because your furnishings contribute to the kind of curated experience today’s guests are after. 

Nailing your aesthetic and the experience that goes along with it can drive positive reviews and profits—and that all starts with choosing the right Airbnb furniture. Read this guide to learn how to furnish your Airbnb, where to buy Airbnb furniture, and how to protect your furniture.

Plan your STR strategy based on real booking activity and trends—plus, see how things change year over year.

Step one in furnishing an Airbnb is to define the experience that you want to offer (and that guests in your area want to have). 

For example, a luxury short-term rental (STR) in the Hollywood Hills naturally calls for very different furnishings than a cozy cabin in the Rocky Mountains. Getting the details right requires a thorough understanding of your market and price tier.

Airbnb furniture contributes to your listing performance, too. The right furniture can make your property pop or fade into the background of the search results. High-quality furniture will look good in photos, but your furniture needs to photograph well no matter how much it costs. Consider your average daily rate (ADR), too; the higher your nightly rates, the higher guest expectations will be.

How you furnish your vacation rental home is just as important as what you furnish it with. You can go for top-of-the-line items, sure, but you can also furnish your Airbnb without breaking the bank. It’s all about the intention and strategy behind the furnishings.

Follow the steps below to furnish your Airbnb successfully:

Before you furnish your Airbnb, you’ll need to decide on a look. Interior design trends like Scandinavian and modern farmhouse are popular among guests, but that doesn’t mean you need to overhaul your space to follow suit. 

Start by analyzing your market and your competitors. Are you targeting a high-end guest demographic, or is your STR more budget-friendly? Is your Airbnb in the city or in the mountains? Is there a style or furnishing unique to your location (like porch beds in the south)? 

These questions can all lead you to the ideal aesthetic for your Airbnb. Remember, guests ultimately want immersive experiences, so the Airbnb furniture you choose should be a reflection of both your market and how you price your property. If you’re selling an upscale experience, your furniture better reflect that.

You’ve decided on a look. Great. Now you need to consider the typical guest who stays at your STR, and what furniture their lifestyle calls for. 
For example, if your property caters to a lot of business travelers or digital nomads, make sure you furnish a workspace with a desk, chair, and any other office essentials. If your property caters to families, consider adding kid-friendly furniture or stocking a toy chest.

It’s important to ensure the furniture you choose will make your guests’ lives better for the little while they’re staying in your Airbnb. A hip, hanging chair would make for a great TikTok, and it might even inspire a few bookings. However, if your guests arrive and there’s nowhere truly comfortable to sit? That’s a bust. This goes for your more practical furniture pieces, too. Don’t opt for a trendy dining room table that only seats four if your STR sleeps eight. 

Above all else, remember: Don’t fall for style over substance. Although it’s tempting to prioritize the look of your space, you shouldn’t sacrifice functionality and comfort to get there.

Prioritize Airbnb furniture that is easy to clean. Opt for materials that resist stains and are quick to wipe down, such as leather or faux leather upholstery, laminated wood surfaces, and machine-washable fabrics. Consider furniture with removable and washable covers, making it effortless to freshen up between guest stays. Furniture and fabrics that are easy to clean are especially crucial if your vacation rental is pet-friendly.

Easy-to-clean furniture streamlines your turnover process and keeps your Airbnb in top condition for each new arrival.

Whether your furniture comes from Pottery Barn or a garage sale down the block, there’s one thing it must be: safe. While safety may not come to mind when you think of Airbnb furniture, it should. Taking a little time to properly secure furniture can save you big down the road. 

Here are some tips for Airbnb furniture safety:

Anchor beds, dressers, and other large furniture to the wall.

Make sure electrical outlets are grounded and otherwise up to code.

Install cordless blinds to limit choking hazards

Consider providing other child-proofing items like baby gates.

Tie down or otherwise secure outdoor furniture (also a key strategy for natural disaster preparedness) 

Strike a balance between quality and cost. While it's tempting to splurge on high-end furniture, remember that guests may not treat it with the same care as they would their own belongings.

Instead, opt for durable pieces that offer good value for money. Look for furniture made from sturdy materials that can withstand frequent use and are easy to maintain. Consider shopping at budget-friendly stores or exploring second-hand options to find quality pieces at affordable prices. Furnishing an Airbnb with sustainability in mind can also increase the lifespan of your rental and appeal to eco-minded guests. 

You can create a comfortable and inviting space for guests without breaking the bank by prioritizing durability and practicality over luxury. High-quality furniture can cost more, but it won’t need to be replaced as often. Likewise, not all furniture needs to be equally expensive. You might splash out for comfortable beds and couches but save a little more on pieces that get less use, like dining room chairs. 

Some Airbnb furniture essentials are more obvious than others. We probably don’t need to tell you that your STR should have at least one bed, and it should probably have a couch, too. Everything else, though, very much depends on your specific rental property. 

Here’s a solid guide to what furniture your Airbnb needs, organized by room:

Bed with a headboard: Opt for a nice bed with a headboard to make the room feel a bit higher-end. Also, don’t skimp on the mattress—a comfy bed can make or break a guest’s experience! Opt for a mattress that’s at least 8 inches thick.

Bedside tables and lamps: Make it easy for guests to leave their belongings on a nightstand and read in bed.

Accessible outlets:If your outlets are behind the bed or otherwise tough to reach, run an extension cord so guests don’t have to bend over backwards to charge their electronics.

Dresser: Choose a piece that is sturdy and matches your property’s aesthetic. A dresser is important if you cater to longer-term stays, and especially important if the bedroom doesn’t have much closet space.

Mirror: Don’t make your guests venture to the bathroom to check a mirror. If you have the space, opt for a full-length floor mirror—otherwise, a simple wall mirror will do.

Couch or sectional: First and foremost, make sure that there is enough seating for the number of guests your property accommodates. A high-quality couch is a worthwhile investment since your guests will likely use it a lot.

Sofabed with a pull-out mattress: Go the extra mile and choose a couch that has a pull-out sofa bed to accommodate more guests. Offering up additional sleeping spaces can justify higher nightly prices, too. 

Armchairs or recliners: Amp up the seating with comfy armchairs that complement the sofa and match the property’s vibe.

Coffee table or ottoman: Choose a coffee table that makes sense for your unique property. For example, if you cater to families, you might want to avoid a glass coffee table that could break easily.

Side tables. Make sure you have ample table space with small end tables placed strategically around the room, particularly near any armchairs.

TV: Unless your property is a cozy cabin that advertises itself as a screen-free retreat, invest in a TV for your living space. 

Adequate lighting: Guests will appreciate tasteful lighting choices, such as table or floor lamps in addition to any overhead lighting.  

Area rug: Liven up the space and add some color or texture with a nice area rug.

Your vacation rental may be amazing, but is it better than your competition? Connect your Airbnb listing to AirDNA to see its Booking Performance Score

Kitchen island: If your kitchen floor plan allows for an island, it’s a worthwhile investment. Lots of travelers choose Airbnbs over hotels specifically for the kitchen and the ability to cook meals. A kitchen island provides more counter space, a must for larger properties where guests will be cooking for a group.

Barstools for the island or breakfast bar: If your floor plan can accommodate kitchen seating, definitely invest in stools at the island or counter. 

High chair: If your property is family-friendly, provide a high chair for the kiddos.

Outdoor couch or loveseat: Give guests the opportunity to lounge outdoors—it’s a huge selling point and can give your property a competitive edge.

Dining table and chairs: Whether you have space for a small bistro table or a sprawling outdoor dining table, give guests a place to enjoy al fresco dining.

Umbrella/shade covering: Guests won’t want to use your outdoor space if there isn’t anywhere to sit outside of direct sunlight.

Fire pit: Opt for a gas fire pit so guests can easily enjoy a cozy fire outside. Provide clear instructions for safe operation. Make the guest stay more memorable with a smores kit in your welcome basket. 

Desk: Consider investing in an adjustable standing desk for better ergonomics. 

Desk chair: Choose a chair that is durable and won’t start squeaking after a few hours of use. 

Lighting: Opt for a nice desk lamp to add ambiance. 

Accessible outlets: Make sure there’s an outlet near the desk—and even better, add an outlet extender so guests can plug in all their electronics.

Just like there’s no one right way to furnish your Airbnb, there’s no one right place to buy your furniture. If you manage local Airbnbs, you may want to shop in person. But if you manage your STRs remotely, online shopping may be the way to go. 

Here are some of our favorite places to shop for Airbnbs:

No, it’s not all about the Swedish meatballs. IKEA is something of a one-stop shop for your Airbnb furniture. 

Here, you can buy your bed, bed frame, and bedding all in one place. Same goes for your living room furniture and decor, as well as every other room in your unit. 

Though their furniture may be better for more budget-friendly rentals, they actually have some pieces that look high-end but are still easier on the wallet. 

For online shopping, look no further than Wayfair. Wayfair has options for every budget and every room in the house. Their website should be a go-to if you need to furnish multiple units in different price tiers or if you manage your units remotely. 

West Elm is a favorite among more luxury travelers. If your property has a hefty ADR or it’s competing against other upscale STRs, consider shopping at West Elm. Their furniture is not only comfortable; it also pops in photographs. Keep in mind that their furniture is pricey and might eat into your profit margins if you’re targeting a more modest ADR. If you do choose to shop at West Elm, be strategic about the pieces you invest in. A nice couch will probably garner more guest notice than a fancy coat rack.

If you’re hosting Airbnbs locally and have time to dedicate to buying furniture in person, Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace may be a great fit for you. You can find great quality pieces at unbelievably low prices. This kind of shopping requires a little more hands-on time, though, as it may take you longer to find furniture that fits your aesthetic. 

The great thing about American Furniture Warehouse (AFW) is that you know what you’re getting. You can go into an AFW wherever you live, try out some couches, and then order one for wherever your unit may be. This is also a great way to standardize your listings and ensure that all your furniture is comfortable and high quality. Keep in mind, though, that AFW can have long wait times on their orders, so check delivery times before you make your purchase. 

Article.com is a popular online furniture store known for its modern and stylish designs. With a focus on simplicity and quality craftsmanship, Article offers a wide range of furniture pieces suitable for various Airbnb aesthetics. 

One of the standout features of Article is its direct-to-consumer model, which allows them to cut out the middleman and offer competitive prices without compromising on quality. Additionally, Article provides hassle-free delivery and a generous return policy, making it a convenient choice for Airbnb hosts looking to furnish their properties with ease.

Etsy is a treasure trove for unique and handcrafted furniture pieces that can add character and charm to your Airbnb property. From vintage finds to custom-made items, Etsy offers a diverse selection of furniture that caters to various styles and preferences. Whether you're looking for rustic farmhouse tables, bohemian-inspired decor, or one-of-a-kind artisanal pieces, Etsy has something for every taste. 

Shopping on Etsy allows Airbnb hosts to support independent artisans and small businesses while also finding pieces that can help set their rental property apart. With Etsy's user-friendly platform and extensive range of sellers, finding the perfect furniture pieces to complement your Airbnb's aesthetic has never been easier.

Pottery Barn is a well-known destination for high-quality, stylish furniture and home decor, making it an excellent choice for Airbnb furniture. From classic sofas and beds to chic dining sets and accessories, Pottery Barn's curated collections provide options to suit different tastes and preferences. Additionally, Pottery Barn's attention to detail and craftsmanship means that their pieces stand the test of time, making it a worthwhile investment for your rental property. 

Use Smart Rates™ to optimize your pricing strategy.

Renting furniture offers several advantages, especially for hosts who are just starting out or who have limited capital to invest upfront. One of the main benefits of renting is cost-effectiveness. 

Instead of purchasing furniture outright, hosts can pay a monthly fee to rent the items they need, spreading the cost over time and avoiding a large initial investment. Renting also provides flexibility, allowing hosts to easily update or change their furniture as needed without the hassle of selling or disposing of old items.

However, renting furniture comes with its own set of drawbacks. While it may be cheaper in the short term, renting furniture can end up costing more over time compared to buying. Additionally, hosts may be limited in their selection of furniture styles because rental companies typically offer pre-selected packages or sets. 

Another consideration is the commitment terms associated with renting. Hosts may be locked into contracts for a specified period which can limit their flexibility to make changes. 

Ultimately, the decision to rent or buy Airbnb furniture depends on factors such as budget, flexibility, and long-term goals for the rental property.

Airbnb furniture packages offer a convenient solution for hosts looking to furnish their rental properties quickly and efficiently. These packages typically include a curated selection of furniture and decor items specifically designed for short-term rentals. 

The main advantage of opting for a furniture package is the time and effort saved in sourcing and selecting individual pieces, as packages are often tailored to fit different property sizes and styles. Additionally, furniture packages can help create a cohesive and stylish look for the rental space, making it more appealing to potential guests.

However, there are some potential drawbacks to consider when choosing Airbnb furniture packages:

Lack of customization options: packages are pre-designed and may not perfectly align with the host's aesthetic preferences or property layout. 

Markup costs: Hosts may also find that furniture packages can be more expensive compared to sourcing furniture independently, as package prices often include charges for the convenience and coordination provided.

Varying quality: Hosts should carefully review the contents of each package to make sure that all essential items are included and that the quality of the furniture meets their standards. 

Did you know that there are membership programs you can join to get discounts on furniture (and other supplies) for your Airbnb?

Let’s take a look at two of the leading companies dedicated to helping hosts furnish their short-term rentals:

HostGPO is the vacation rental industry’s original group purchasing organization (GPO), which you can think of as a collective that unites to leverage its purchasing power to get discounts for members. GPOs are common in the hospitality and healthcare industries—and now they’ve arrived in the STR market.

HostGPO offers members-only discounts on furniture, linens, mattresses, and more for short-term vacation rentals, partnering with leading brands to help you save big.

With HostGPO, you can get discounts on furniture from popular brands like:

Most discounts through HostGPO are between 30-75%, and members save an average of $12,292 each year.

Minoan is a free-to-join, no-obligations membership program that helps Airbnb hosts and vacation rental owners save money on property essentials—including furniture—from top consumer brands. 

You can save up to 60% by purchasing goods for your Airbnb through the Minoan Shopping Assistant. Minoan’s centralized ordering system also empowers you to check out quickly with just a click and track your deliveries from one dashboard.

How Much Does It Cost to Furnish an Airbnb?

The average cost to furnish an Airbnb rental property in the United States is as little as $3,000 for a small property on a low budget, or as much as $50,000 for a large, higher-end property.

If you have a small property that caters to more budget travelers, you can expect to pay between $3,000 - $5,000 for Airbnb furniture. However, expect to pay at least $10,000—if not as much as $50,000 or more—if your property is quite large or you need to cater to high-end travelers. 

Keep in mind that the cost to furnish a home varies widely based on the quality of the furniture, the size of the home, and the number of rooms. 

Buying Airbnb furniture on a budget doesn't mean sacrificing style or comfort. Here are some tips to help you furnish your property affordably:

Shop Secondhand: Explore thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace for gently used furniture at discounted prices. You can find unique pieces with character that add charm to your space without breaking the bank.

DIY: Get creative and consider refurbishing or upcycling old furniture to give it a new lease on life. Painting, reupholstering, or adding new hardware can transform outdated pieces into stylish additions to your Airbnb.

Rent or Borrow: If you're on a tight budget or only need furniture temporarily, consider renting or borrowing items instead of buying them outright. Look for furniture rental companies in your area that offer flexible rental terms and a variety of styles to choose from.

Choose Multifunctional Furniture: Maximize space and functionality by investing in multifunctional furniture pieces that serve multiple purposes. For example, a sleeper sofa can double as a bed for guests, while a dining table with built-in storage provides extra space for essentials.

Shop at Discount Retailers: Shop at budget-friendly retailers or online stores that offer affordable furniture options without compromising on quality. Look for sales, clearance items, and discount codes to save even more on your purchases.

How to Protect Your Airbnb Furniture from Damage

The short answer: you can’t prevent all damage. Wine glasses tip over, pets track dirt onto couches, and kids’ sticky little hands can leave marks just about everywhere. Wear and tear, and sometimes even damage, is one of the costs of doing business. 

Don’t worry about whether or not guests will damage your furniture, and instead, implement some protections so you can recoup your losses.

Security deposits: On both Airbnb and Vrbo, hosts can implement a security deposit at their own discretion. If your furniture is high value, you might consider a deposit in the event of damages. Read up on the policies for both platforms before you do. 

Vacation rental insurance: Vacation rentals aren’t covered under homeowners’ or landowners’ insurance. Protect your assets by ensuring you have adequate coverage from a vacation rental insurance company.

Vet your guests: Though everyone deserves the benefit of the doubt, not all guests will have respect for your STR. The best way to separate the good from the bad is to screen guests. Read what other hosts have said about them. If they damaged the furniture during their most recent stay, you might reconsider accepting that booking.

Airbnb furniture needs to be cohesive, regardless of where it comes from or how much it costs. Get more revenue and five-star reviews with this guide.

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