Are Airbnb Homes Still Safer Than Hotels for Toddlers?

Are Airbnb Homes Still Safer Than Hotels for Toddlers?

When Airbnb first started becoming popular, one of the best advantages was the “home away from home” feel. You could book an entire house or apartment, equipped with just about everything you had at home, including a well-equipped kitchen, bedrooms, laundry machines, and more. 

For parents with toddlers, this was perfect. It made travelling easier because you could cook your child’s meals, do laundry, and let them nap in a quiet room. Many Airbnbs even had baby cots, high chairs, and safe play areas.

But over time, hotels caught up, now offering more family-friendly rooms and better safety features. At the same time, not every Airbnb is as safe as it looks online. So the big question is, are Airbnbs still safer for toddlers, or are hotels now the better choice?

Image: A photo of a young child wearing blue pyjamas, sitting against a table, attentively looking at a colourful picture book spread open on the table.

Safety Considerations

When travelling with toddlers, safety is always the first thing to consider. Airbnb homes and hotels both have their strong and weak points. In an Airbnb, you get more space and freedom to move things around to accommodate your child safely, but not all homes are built the same. You might find stairs without safety gates, sharp table corners, or cleaning products left in easy reach. You will need to do your own safety checks once you arrive.

Hotels, on the other hand, are generally built with safety rules in place. Windows and furniture are usually secure, and cleaning products are kept out of reach. While not baby-proof, hotel rooms are often safer by design and easier to manage, especially for short stays.

Cleanliness and Hygiene

Cleanliness is another big factor when travelling with toddlers. In Airbnbs, the level of cleanliness can differ a lot from one home to another. Some hosts keep their spaces spotless, while others might miss small details. You mostly have to rely on reviews to know what to expect.

Hotels, however, are cleaned daily by trained staff. Rooms are sanitised before new guests arrive, and bedding and towels are changed often. This makes hotels a more reliable choice for parents who want a clean and germ-free space.

Emergencies and Medical Help

When travelling with a toddler, it is important to know that help is available if something goes wrong. In an Airbnb, you are mostly on your own. Some hosts might share local emergency contacts or be ready to help, but many live far away and can’t respond quickly.

Hotels are much easier when it comes to emergencies. There is always staff on duty who can help you call a doctor, get a taxi to the hospital, or provide first aid if needed. Some large hotels even have medical staff on site. This makes hotels a safer choice in case of sudden illness or accidents.

Food and Feeding Time

Feeding a toddler while travelling can be tricky, so having the right setup matters. Airbnbs are great because most have a kitchen. You can cook your child’s favourite meals, warm milk, and store snacks whenever you need. It gives you full control over what and when your child eats.

Hotels usually don’t have kitchens in the rooms, though some family suites may include a small one. Most hotels do, however, offer kids’ menus, baby food options, and can help warm bottles if you ask. Still, it is not as flexible as having your own kitchen space.

Conclusion

In 2025, the line between Airbnb and hotels has blurred. While Airbnb still offers the comfort and freedom of a home environment, which many people and families love, hotels have stepped up their game too.

There is no one single answer as to whether Airbnbs are safer than hotels or vice versa. It really depends on what you prioritise most. If you want more space, cooking freedom, and that home-away-from-home feel, Airbnb is a good choice. But if you want round-the-clock assistance, help with consistent cleanliness, and quick help in case of emergencies, a hotel might be better.