What you need to know about hosting families with children

Little details can make a big difference for anyone travelling with small children. Offering special amenities or equipment for families can make your home appealing to more guests.

Consider updating your home to make it family-friendly. Be sure to take basic safety precautions to help protect your guests and your home.

• Opt for sturdy and safe furniture, and avoid glass, if possible.
• Move breakables and sharp objects out of children’s reach.
• Prevent broken crockery by stocking your kitchen with reusable plastic cups and plates.
• Add latches to cabinets and protective covers to plugs.
• Choose durable, easy-to-clean materials, such as high-performance fabrics.
• Provide commonly requested items, such as extra towels and sheets.
• Cover hardwood floors with washable rugs.
• Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and regularly replace batteries.
• Provide a fire extinguisher near the kitchen oven.
• Include local emergency numbers in your house manual and on a quick reference card for guests.

Once you’ve prepared your home, refresh your listing details and update amenities to help attract bookings and set expectations. Guests can use search filters to narrow their options.

• Add every amenity you offer, including popular items like a cot and high chair.
• If you have a washing machine or dryer, mention whether you provide laundry detergent and if there are any additional charges.
• If you have a bath, add a note in your listing details and include a photo in your image gallery.
• Double-check that your photos convey everything you’ve described.
• Add family-friendly recommendations to your guidebook, such as nearby playgrounds and where to pick up or replenish supplies.

Information contained in this article may have changed since publication.