Creating Cozy Stays: Tips for Airbnb Hosts

Creating Cozy Stays: Simple, High-Impact Tips for Airbnb Hosts

There’s something special about a space that feels instantly warm and welcoming. As an Airbnb host, creating that “ahh, this is perfect” moment is one of the most valuable things you can do—not just for your guests, but for your listing’s performance. Cozy spaces photograph better, review better, and book better.

And the best part? Cozy doesn’t have to mean expensive. It’s all about thoughtful, intentional touches that make your guests feel cared for.

Below are my go-to cozy-stay strategies that consistently lead to 5-star reviews, repeat guests, and a space guests can’t stop talking about.

1. Warm Lighting Changes Everything

Lighting is the quickest way to transform a space from cold and sterile to soft and inviting.

Tips:

• Use warm light bulbs (2700K–3000K)

• Add lamps instead of relying on overheads

• Include dimmers whenever possible

• Add soft, ambient lights in bedrooms and living spaces

Guests want to relax, not feel like they’re under fluorescent lights at a dentist’s office.

2. Layer Your Textures

Cozy is all about layers.

Think in terms of:

• A soft throw blanket over the sofa

• Plush pillows in varying sizes

• A textured rug

• Linen curtains

• A quilt AND a duvet on the bed

These layers create visual warmth and physical comfort—guests instantly feel the difference.

3. Keep Décor Intentional, Not Cluttered

Clutter stresses guests out.
Thoughtful décor comforts them.

Choose a few cozy, curated pieces:

• Candles (unscented or very lightly scented)

• Books

• A simple plant or two

• A beautiful textured vase

Your goal is a space that feels styled, not stuffed.

4. Create a Sense of Place

Cozy isn’t just physical—it’s emotional.
Tie your décor to your home’s location and story.

Examples:

• A lake house with soft blues and natural fibers

• A ski condo with wood textures and warm blankets

• A city apartment with cozy, modern minimalism

Guests love when a space reflects where they are.

5. Thoughtful Essentials Make Guests Feel Safe

A cozy stay is also a prepared stay.

Provide essentials like:

• Extra blankets

• Slippers in winter

• A white noise machine

• A fan

• Shampoo, conditioner & body wash

• Coffee, tea, hot chocolate

These aren’t “extras”—they’re the details guests remember.

6. Cozy Bedrooms = Better Reviews

A cozy bedroom should feel like a retreat.

Make sure it has:

• High-quality bedding

• Two types of pillows (soft + firm)

• Blackout curtains

• A bedside lamp

• A place to plug in phones

Guests always comment on a comfortable bed.

7. Add Kid-Friendly Comfort

Especially important now that you’re a mom of 3 and know the struggle.

A cozy stay for parents is one where their kids are happy and safe.

Consider offering:

• A pack ’n play

• A sound machine

• Plastic dishes/cups

• A soft throw rug for kids to play on

• A basket of simple toys

Families notice when a home feels welcoming for little ones.

8. Seasonal Cozy Touches

Tiny seasonal updates go a long way.

Fall/Winter:

• Chunky knit throws

• Warm-toned pillows

• A few evergreen touches

Spring/Summer:

• Light linens

• Fresh flowers

• Soft pastel accents

This makes your space feel cared for year-round.

9. Scent Sets the Mood

A cozy scent can become a signature part of your stay.

Stick to:

• Soft vanillas

• Linen

• Warm amber

• Cedar

Nothing overpowering—just a light, welcoming fragrance when the door opens.

Final Takeaway

Creating a cozy Airbnb isn’t about spending money—it’s about making intentional, thoughtful choices that help guests feel at ease the moment they walk in. Cozy stays photograph better, rent faster, and earn more 5-star reviews.

When your guests feel warm, safe, and cared for… they’ll return again and again.