Support Guide

Cleaning Policy & Fees

Understand our cleaning standards and what to expect when returning your rental vehicle.

The Golden Rule

Return the vehicle in the same condition you received it. A quick clean-up before return goes a long way and helps you avoid any cleaning fees.

Return Condition Checklist

Please Do

  • Remove all personal belongings and trash
  • Wipe down the dashboard and surfaces
  • Vacuum or shake out floor mats
  • Return the fuel level as agreed
  • Report any spills or stains immediately
  • Take photos of the interior before return
  • Dispose of any food wrappers or bottles

Please Don't

  • Smoke or vape in the vehicle (strict policy)
  • Leave pet hair or pet waste in the car
  • Spill food or drinks and leave them unaddressed
  • Leave strong odors (perfume, air fresheners, etc.)
  • Stain or damage upholstery or carpets
  • Leave mud, sand, or excessive dirt
  • Return with overflowing trash or debris

Special Policies

No Smoking Policy

All ItWhip vehicles are strictly non-smoking. This includes cigarettes, cigars, vapes, and e-cigarettes. Any evidence of smoking will result in a cleaning fee.

Smoking fee: $150 - $250 (includes deep interior cleaning and odor removal)

Pet Policy

Pets are allowed in some vehicles with host approval. Always use a pet carrier or seat cover. Excessive pet hair or damage will incur a cleaning fee.

Pet cleaning fee: $50 - $150 (depends on severity)

Food & Drinks

Be careful with food and drinks in the vehicle. Clean up any spills immediately. Stains from food or beverages may incur cleaning charges.

Spill cleaning fee: $25 - $100 (depends on stain type and severity)

Cleaning Fee Guidelines

LevelFee RangeExamplesDescription
Light$25 - $50Minor trash, crumbs, light dirtQuick interior tidying needed beyond normal wear
Moderate$50 - $100Food spills, pet hair, sand/mudInterior detailing required to restore condition
Heavy$100 - $200Stains, strong odors, excessive messProfessional deep cleaning needed
Severe$200 - $350+Smoking, biohazard, permanent damageSpecialized cleaning or upholstery replacement

Fees are assessed based on photo evidence taken at return. All fees are subject to review and you may dispute any charges within 48 hours.

Dispute a Cleaning Fee

If you believe a cleaning fee was charged unfairly, you can dispute it through the following process:

  1. 1Review the charge details and photos in your dashboard
  2. 2Submit a dispute with your own photos taken at drop-off
  3. 3Our team will review both sets of evidence within 48 hours
  4. 4You'll be notified of the outcome via email
  5. 5If the dispute is upheld, the fee will be refunded to your payment method

Cleaning FAQs

Will I be charged if the car was already dirty when I picked it up?
No. Document the condition with photos at pickup using the trip start checklist. Any pre-existing conditions noted at pickup will not be charged to you at return.
How long do I have to dispute a cleaning fee?
You have 48 hours from when the fee is posted to submit a dispute through your dashboard. Make sure to include any photos you took at drop-off.
Can I clean the car myself to avoid fees?
Absolutely! We recommend doing a quick clean-up before returning. Remove trash, wipe surfaces, and shake out floor mats. This simple effort usually prevents any cleaning charges.
What if the host agreed to allow pets?
Even with host approval for pets, you are still responsible for cleaning up pet hair and any mess. Use a seat cover or blanket to protect the upholstery.
Are air fresheners allowed?
Please avoid using strong air fresheners, as they can leave lingering odors that require professional cleaning to remove. A neutral-smelling interior is preferred.
What counts as 'normal wear and tear'?
Normal wear includes light dust, minor footprints on floor mats, and typical usage marks. It does not include stains, spills, trash, odors, or any condition that requires extra cleaning.

Pro Tips to Avoid Fees

Bag Your Trash

Keep a small bag in the car for any wrappers, receipts, or trash during your trip.

Use Cup Holders

Always secure drinks in cup holders and use lids to prevent spills.

Bring a Blanket for Pets

Cover seats with a blanket or towel if traveling with pets.

Quick Wipe-Down

Keep a pack of wipes in the glove box for quick clean-ups before return.

Questions About Cleaning Fees?

Our support team can help review any charges or answer questions about our cleaning policy.

Cleaning Policy & Fees | ItWhip Support