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Designing a Durable & Stylish Airbnb: Materials That Withstand Wear and Tear
Written by : Ati rezaei
Running an Airbnb or rental means your space faces more wear and tear than a typical home. Guests come and go, luggage drags across floors, and furniture gets heavy use. The key is choosing finishes that are durable, easy to clean, and still stylish so your property looks fresh in photos and earns better reviews. In Toronto and North York, where weather shifts from humid summers to wet autumns and snowy winters, material selection is even more important. Durable choices not only prevent stains and scratches but also protect against moisture, mold, and seasonal damage. Here are Renomod’s top recommendations for creating a rental that works hard and still looks beautiful year after year.
Flooring That Lasts
Floors take the heaviest impact in any rental. Suitcases, shoes, spills, and daily cleaning can quickly ruin delicate surfaces. Best picks: Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) or porcelain tile. Both resist water, scratches, and stains, making them ideal for high-traffic spaces. In rainy fall and snowy winter months, waterproof flooring is essential to prevent swelling or mold growth. Choose matte finishes that hide scuffs and look great in photos.
Countertops & Kitchens
The kitchen is the heart of any Airbnb and one of the most-used areas. Quartz countertops are the go-to choice: stain-resistant, easy to maintain, and modern in style. They won’t absorb moisture or odors, which is important when guests may cook a variety of foods. Pair them with simple ceramic or porcelain backsplash tiles for a clean, timeless look that’s easy to wipe down. Avoid porous stone like marble, which stains easily and requires regular sealing.
Walls & Paint
Washable paints are essential in short-term rentals. Guests may scuff walls with luggage or furniture, and frequent cleaning is necessary. Use matte or eggshell finishes in living areas, satin in kitchens and bathrooms, and semi-gloss for trims and doors. These choices make touch-ups simple and keep walls looking new. In damp seasons like autumn and spring, moisture-resistant paints can also help reduce the risk of mildew or peeling.
Bathrooms That Withstand Moisture
Bathrooms are high-moisture zones and need special attention. Large-format porcelain tiles with epoxy grout resist mold and staining. Single-handle faucets are simple for guests to use, while quartz or solid-surface vanity tops prevent water damage. In colder months, proper ventilation and waterproof materials are key to keeping bathrooms fresh and free from dampness.
Fabrics & Furniture
🛋 Furniture fabrics need to handle spills, constant use, and frequent cleaning. Select performance fabrics or washable covers for sofas and chairs. Low-pile rugs that can be cleaned easily are ideal, especially during wet seasons when mud and water are tracked indoors. For bedding, choose hypoallergenic materials and keep a spare set of linens onsite for quick changeovers.
Outdoor & Seasonal Considerations
If your Airbnb has a balcony or patio, think about durability outdoors as well. Composite decking, powder-coated railings, and outdoor fabrics withstand rain ☔️and snow ❄️ fading or rotting. During fall 🍁 and winter 🥶 , make sure entryways have durable mats and easy-to-clean flooring to prevent moisture from spreading inside. This protects against mold, slippery surfaces, and long-term damage.
Quick Design Wins 👍🏻
👉🏻 Upgrade lighting to warm LED bulbs for cozy photos.
👉🏻 Add durable entry mats to catch dirt and moisture.
👉🏻 Use modular, easy-to-replace furniture pieces.
👉🏻 Keep décor minimal but include one standout accessory or light fixture.
👉🏻 Always document paint colors, tile choices, and suppliers for easy repairs.
Ready to design a rental that withstands daily use and still shines in photos? 📱 Renomod specializes in smart, stylish renovations for Airbnbs and rentals across GTA From waterproof flooring to mold-resistant paints, we know what lasts in every season.
