Every property has at least one appliance that’s not immediately obvious to someone who’s never used it. The coffee machine with three unmarked buttons. The washing machine with a child lock no one can disable without the manual. The TV remote that controls three different devices.
Documenting appliances properly is one of the highest-value things you can add to your guest guide — and it’s one of the most commonly skipped.
The coffee machine
If you have a pod machine, specify the capsule type and where the pods are stored. If it’s a manual espresso machine, include the steps in order — grind, tamp, extract — or honestly consider swapping it for something simpler for guests. If it’s a filter machine, say how much coffee to use. These details feel obvious to you because you use it every day. To a guest on their first morning, they’re essential.
The dishwasher
Two things guests always wonder: where are the tablets, and which cycle to use? Answer both. “Dishwasher tablets are under the sink. Use the Eco cycle (button on the left) for normal loads.” That’s the whole entry.
The washing machine
Include: which drawer takes which product, which cycle to use for a normal load, and — critically — whether there’s a child lock and how to disengage it. The “my washing machine won’t start” message is almost always a child lock. Save yourself the message by documenting it.
The TV and streaming
List what’s available: Netflix, Disney+, Foxtel, free-to-air. Note whether the account is shared or if guests use their own login. If the remote controls multiple devices (TV, soundbar, Apple TV), consider labelling them. A single sentence — “Press the HOME button on the silver remote to get to the streaming menu” — is enough.
The air conditioning
Model and remote interface vary so much that guests often can’t figure out the system. Include: how to turn it on, which mode to use for cooling vs heating, and a recommended temperature range. If you have a split system in multiple rooms, confirm which remote controls which unit.
The BBQ
If you have a gas BBQ, document: where the gas bottle is, how to turn it on (including the ignition button location), and how to light it manually if the ignition fails. Specify where guests can find the BBQ brush and whether there’s a cover to replace after use.
The rule of thumb: if you’ve explained an appliance to a guest over message at least once, it belongs in the guide.