The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Linens and Towels for Your Vacation Rental

By Teresa Purchase, Co-founder & Head of Operations

Welcome to the cozy corner of the internet where we dive into the not-so-glamorous, but absolutely essential world of vacation rental linens and towels. I’m Teresa Purchase, the Co-founder & Head of Operations at Grey Bruce Cottages Inc., and today, I’m here to spill the tea (not literally, we want to keep those linens spotless) on making your rental stand out with the perfect bedding and towel choices.

The Bedding Dilemma: To Provide or Not to Provide?

Picture this: your first guests arrive, excited for their stay, only to find they have to make their bed. And not in a fun, “let’s build a fort” kind of way. This is a major turn-off for guests who have paid a substantial cleaning fee and want to relax. Besides, who knows what they may leave behind? I learned this the hard way when guests left my mattress cover with a vibrant shade of cheesie dust. Lesson learned: always provide bedding. And make that bed before guests arrive!

Protecting Your Mattress (and Sanity)

Start with a waterproof mattress cover (trust me, you’ll want spares). These are lifesavers for quick changes between guests. Adding another protector on top adds an extra layer of defense against the unexpected.

Pillows Need Love Too

Pillow protectors are a must. They keep things hygienic and extend the life of your pillows. Trust me; it’s a small investment that goes a long way.

Sheets: The Basics

Go for a fitted and flat sheet combo that’s easy to wash and doesn’t wrinkle like it’s been through a saga. Opt for durability over luxury—you’ll need multiple sets. While white is common, I prefer color-coding by size; it’s a real time-saver.

Duvets vs. Comforters: The Great Debate

Cleaners might not be fans of changing duvet covers, but the variety and ease of washing a cover vs. a whole comforter can’t be beaten. Choose all-season duvets with corner loops for easy cover attachment. And remember, patterns hide a multitude of sins better than whites ever could.

Quilts and Throws: Styling Your Sleep Space

Quilts are lovely but might need an extra throw for colder months. Throws not only add warmth but also a touch of style. Pillows? The more, the merrier. A mix of functional and decorative pillows makes a bed inviting and comfortable.

Towels: The White Debate

White towels offer that pristine look, but they’re not always practical, especially with a septic system. My tip? Opt for colors that hide stains and can be brightened up with a bit of oxiclean. Provide plenty of bath towels, hand towels, and face cloths—consider a darker color for makeup removal.

Special Considerations: Hot Tub and Beach Towels

If your rental boasts a hot tub, decide if you’ll provide separate towels. This choice can add to your laundry loads, so plan accordingly. And remember, differentiating these towels by color from your bath towels is a smart move.

Final Touches: Label Trimming and Folding

Scratchy labels on towels are a no-go. Trim those tags to enhance your guest’s comfort. And never underestimate the power of a neatly folded towel to make a bathroom feel like a spa.

There you have it, the insider’s guide to selecting linens and towels that will make your vacation rental shine. Remember, it’s the little touches that turn a good stay into a great one.

Happy hosting, all!

Teresa

About Teresa

Teresa Purchase, affectionately known as ‘Mama Bear,’ is the dynamic Co-Founder and Head of Operations at Grey Bruce Cottages Inc., where her leadership and vision have propelled the company to the forefront of vacation property management in Grey and Bruce Counties. With a rich background in hospitality, Teresa honed her skills managing one of the top Bed and Breakfasts on the Bruce Peninsula, mastering the art of creating welcoming and memorable guest experiences.

Her journey into the property management industry was a natural progression, driven by her passion for impeccable service and a keen eye for detail. Teresa’s expertise extends beyond operations; she is a certified home decor stylist, a talent that significantly influences the aesthetic and functional choices in linens and decor across the properties managed by Grey Bruce Cottages Inc. This unique blend of skills ensures that every property under her care is not only operationally efficient but also beautifully presented, reflecting a commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of the nuances of guest comfort and satisfaction.