Airbnb Hosts Are Using This Scent Hack to Get Rave Reviews—Here’s Why

In the competitive world of Airbnb, standing out is everything. Hosts are always on the hunt for that one clever trick to elevate their listings and earn those coveted five-star reviews. While cozy decor and thoughtful amenities play a big role, there’s a secret weapon more and more hosts are turning to: scent. It turns out that a well-chosen fragrance can transform Airbnb experiences from ordinary to unforgettable. Here’s why this scent hack—featuring a candle with notes of teakwood, tobacco, and amber—is making waves among savvy hosts.

The Science Behind Scent and Guest Impressions

Scent isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a game-changer. Our sense of smell is tied directly to memory and emotion, which means the right aroma can leave a lasting impression on guests. Airbnb hosts have caught on to this, using fragrance to create welcoming, memorable Airbnb experiences that linger in guests’ minds long after checkout. A space that smells luxurious can make travelers feel pampered, relaxed, and eager to leave glowing feedback.

The trick lies in subtlety. Hosts aren’t dousing their rentals in overpowering air fresheners. Instead, they’re opting for sophisticated, layered scents that feel intentional, like a candle that blends smoky teakwood, earthy tobacco, and a warm amber finish. It’s a fragrance that evokes both rugged charm and refined comfort, setting the stage for a standout stay.

Why This Candle Is a Host’s Secret Weapon

Scented Candles are a natural fit for Airbnb hosts. They’re affordable, easy to use, and double as decor. But not just any candle will do. The one that hosts are raving about has a unique scent profile that’s versatile enough for any space, whether it’s a rustic cabin or a sleek city loft. Picture a fragrance that weaves together the deep, woody notes of teakwood, the rich, slightly sweet hint of tobacco, and a smooth amber base. It’s bold yet balanced, making guests feel like they’ve stepped into a curated retreat.

Lighting this candle before a guest arrives is a simple move that pays off big. It fills the air with a welcoming warmth that says, “This isn’t just a rental—it’s an experience.” Hosts report that guests often mention the “amazing smell” in reviews, proving that scent can be a defining factor in Airbnb experiences.

Strategic Placement for Maximum Impact

Where you place the candle matters just as much as the scent itself. Hosts don’t just set it out and forget it—they think about how the fragrance will flow. In a small studio, placing it near the entryway ensures guests are greeted with that teakwood-tobacco-amber aroma the moment they walk in. For larger homes, setting it in a central spot like the living room lets the scent drift through the space naturally.

Timing is key, too. Many hosts light the candle about an hour before check-in, giving the fragrance time to settle without overwhelming the room. It’s a small effort that elevates Airbnb experiences and leaves guests feeling like they’ve stumbled into something special.

How Scent Sets the Mood

A great Airbnb stay isn’t just about a comfy bed or a stocked kitchen—it’s about the vibe. That’s where this scent hack shines. The teakwood note brings a grounded, outdoorsy feel, perfect for properties near nature. Tobacco adds a touch of nostalgia and depth, while amber rounds it out with a cozy, upscale edge. Together, they create an atmosphere that’s both inviting and intriguing.

Guests might not pinpoint the exact notes, but they’ll feel the difference. A space that smells this good suggests attention to detail, which can translate to higher ratings. Hosts using this trick often see their Airbnb experiences praised for being “thoughtful” or “luxurious”—all thanks to a single, well-chosen candle.

Pairing Scent with Other Touches

Smart hosts don’t stop at the candle—they amplify it with complementary touches. A quick wipe-down with a citrus-scented cleaner in the kitchen can brighten the space without clashing with the candle’s warmer tones. Some even leave out a bowl of fresh herbs like rosemary or mint, adding a natural layer to the fragrance mix. It’s about creating a cohesive sensory experience that feels effortless.

This layering approach keeps things subtle yet impactful. Guests won’t feel bombarded by competing smells—they’ll just notice that everything smells good. It’s a hack that takes minimal effort but delivers maximum payoff.

The Reviews Speak for Themselves

Hosts who’ve adopted this scent strategy swear by the results. One host in Colorado shared that after adding the teakwood-tobacco-amber candle to their mountain rental, guests started calling out the “cozy, cabin-like smell” in their feedback. Another in a bustling urban area noted that the scent made their small apartment feel “high-end,” earning them consistent five-star reviews. It’s proof that scent isn’t just a detail—it’s a differentiator in the crowded world of Airbnb experiences.

Even better, this hack is budget-friendly. A single candle can last through multiple bookings if used strategically, making it a cost-effective way to impress guests. Hosts love that it’s a low-lift solution with a high return, especially in a market where every review counts.

Adapting to Different Spaces

The versatility of this scent is another reason it’s a hit. In a beachside bungalow, the amber note can feel like a warm sunset, while the teakwood grounds it in nature. In a city condo, the tobacco adds a sophisticated edge that suits the urban vibe. Hosts can tweak the placement or timing to suit their property, but the core fragrance works anywhere.

For smaller spaces, one candle is often enough. In bigger homes, some hosts light two—one in the main living area and another in the bedroom—to keep the scent consistent. It’s a flexible trick that adapts to any listing.

Turning First Impressions into Lasting Memories

First impressions matter, and scent is the ultimate welcome mat. Walking into an Airbnb that smells like teakwood, tobacco, and amber instantly signals that this isn’t a generic stay—it’s something curated. Guests might not realize why they feel so at home, but they’ll remember it when they’re typing up that review. For hosts, it’s a small investment that turns check-ins into rave-worthy moments.

This scent hack is spreading fast among Airbnb hosts, and it’s easy to see why. It’s simple, effective, and taps into what makes Airbnb experiences truly special: the feeling of discovery. Whether you’re hosting in a tiny studio or a sprawling retreat, this candle could be the key to unlocking those glowing reviews.