Support Guide

Cleaning Policy & Fees

Keep it clean, keep it simple. Understand our return standards and avoid unexpected charges.

The Golden Rule

Return the car in the same condition you received it. That's it—no professional detailing required, just basic respect for the vehicle.

Return Checklist

Please Do

  • Remove all personal belongings
  • Throw away any trash
  • Shake out floor mats if sandy/dirty
  • Wipe up any spills or sticky spots
  • Return at agreed fuel level
  • Take photos documenting condition
  • Report any issues to host immediately

Please Don't

  • Smoke or vape in the vehicle
  • Bring pets without permission
  • Leave food or drink containers
  • Return with excessive sand or mud
  • Leave strong odors (perfume, food, etc.)
  • Ignore spills—clean them up!
  • Transport anything that stains

Special Policies

No Smoking

All ItWhip vehicles are smoke-free. This includes cigarettes, cigars, vapes, and cannabis.

Violation fee: $250 minimum + odor removal costs

Pet Policy

Only allowed in vehicles marked "pet-friendly." Always use a carrier or seat cover.

Unauthorized pets: $200+ cleaning fee

Food & Drinks

Eating is allowed but clean up after yourself. Spills should be wiped immediately.

Stains/odors: $50-200 depending on severity

Cleaning Fee Guidelines

LevelFee RangeExamplesDescription
Light Cleaning$50-75Sand, light dirt, food crumbs, minor spillsVehicle needs more than a basic wipe-down
Standard Cleaning$100-150Significant dirt, sticky residue, stains requiring treatmentProfessional interior detailing required
Deep Cleaning$200-350Pet hair, smoke odor, major stains, biohazard cleanupExtensive professional cleaning with odor removal
Restoration$400+Cigarette burns, permanent stains, odor requiring ozone treatmentMay require multiple treatments or part replacement

Fees are deducted from your security deposit. Excessive cleaning may result in deposit forfeiture plus additional charges.

Disputing a Cleaning Fee

If you believe a cleaning fee is unfair, you can dispute it within 48 hours of being charged:

  1. 1Review the photos provided by the host documenting the issue
  2. 2Compare with your own pickup/return photos (this is why we recommend always taking them!)
  3. 3Submit your dispute through the app with your evidence
  4. 4ItWhip support reviews both sides and makes a fair determination
  5. 5Decision is typically made within 3-5 business days

Cleaning FAQ

What condition should I return the car in?
Return the car in the same general condition you received it. Remove all personal belongings, trash, and any sand/dirt you brought in. A basic wipe-down of any spills is appreciated but professional cleaning isn't expected.
Are pets allowed in ItWhip rentals?
It depends on the host. Some hosts welcome pets (look for the "pet-friendly" badge), while others don't allow them. Never bring a pet in a non-pet-friendly vehicle—this results in automatic deep cleaning fees.
What if I smoke in the car?
Smoking (including vaping) is prohibited in all ItWhip vehicles. Violation results in a minimum $250 cleaning fee plus potential odor removal costs. Repeat offenders may be banned from the platform.
How do I avoid cleaning fees?
Simple: return it as you found it. Remove trash, shake out floor mats if sandy, wipe up spills, and don't smoke or bring unauthorized pets. Take photos at return to document condition.
What if the car was already dirty when I got it?
Always document the vehicle condition at pickup with photos/video. If it's significantly dirty, contact the host immediately and report through the app. This protects you from being charged for pre-existing issues.
Who determines cleaning fees?
Hosts document condition at return with photos. If cleaning is needed, they submit a claim with documentation. ItWhip reviews the evidence and determines fair charges based on our fee guidelines.

Pro Tips to Avoid Fees

Keep a small trash bag

A plastic grocery bag in the door pocket makes cleanup easy

Use cup holders

Prevent spills by keeping drinks secured

Bring a blanket for pets

Even in pet-friendly cars, protect the seats

Quick wipe at return

2 minutes with a napkin can save you $50+

Questions About Cleaning?

Contact us before your trip if you have any concerns about cleanliness standards.