Kid-Friendly Vacation Home Management: Rethinking the "No Kids" Policy

Kid-Friendly Vacation Home Management: Rethinking the "No Kids" Policy

Originally, we at Stay Classy Management didn't consider our short-term rentals to be kid-friendly. Our personal properties lacked baby-proofing, and we were worried about delicate items being damaged. But as we expanded into managing properties like Lodi Landing in California, which can sleep up to 10 guests, we realized that excluding kids wasn't practical. Most of our bookings included children, and adapting to accommodate them was essential.

Learning from Personal Travel Experiences

Our own travels, especially a family trip to Hawaii, were eye-opening. We stayed in two different Airbnbs: one lacking basic amenities for babies, forcing us to buy necessities like a Pack 'n Play, and another in Kona, well-equipped with baby gear. This experience highlighted the importance of providing family-friendly amenities in vacation home management.

Making Your Rental Kid-Friendly: A Must

Allowing kids in your rental? We say yes! It's a strategic move in vacation home management, unless there are specific risks involved. Start by equipping your rental with essential baby and kid-friendly items. Scour Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Amazon, or yard sales for gently used items. It's cost-effective and eco-friendly. Remember to check for safety recalls on used items.

Essential Kid-Friendly Amenities


Begin with basics like a Pack 'n Play, highchair, outlet covers, and cabinet locks. Maintain cleanliness by instructing guests to use disinfectant wipes on items before and after use. Label these instructions clearly on each item. For fabric covers, ask guests to remove and place them in the laundry room upon checkout.

Comprehensive List of Recommended Amenities


For a truly welcoming environment, consider adding:


  1. Children's Entertainment: Books and toys are great. You can source these affordably through friends or online marketplaces.

  2. Children's Dinnerware: Include items like spill-proof cups and plastic utensils.

  3. Amenities: Mark any baby baths or cribs as special amenities in your listing.

  4. Safety & Monitoring: Invest in corner guards, cabinet locks, baby monitors, and other safety features.

  5. Extra Services: Offering a list of vetted babysitters can be a great touch, but ensure they're reliable and professionally credible.

Final Thoughts


Embracing a family-friendly approach in your vacation home management is not just beneficial for your business, but also assembles a welcoming and safe environment for all guests.
Stay Classy Management understands the importance of this and recommends property owners consider these adjustments for a successful and inclusive rental experience. 

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