Running an Airbnb or vacation rental is no small feat—you’re part host, part housekeeper, part security guard, and part interior designer. Between juggling bookings and flipping bedsheets, the last thing you want to worry about is whether your door hardware is up to the task. The right hardware can make your life easier, your guests’ stay smoother, and your property more secure. Whether you’re just getting started or leveling up your setup, here’s a rundown of the best hardware for rental properties.
Start with Smart: Keyless Entry for the Win
One of the best upgrades you can make to your Airbnb or rental property is installing keyless levers. It’s a game-changer for both hosts and guests. No more lost keys, no awkward meet-ups, and no worrying about strangers getting their hands on a spare. Instead, you can send your guest a temporary code, change it between stays, and sleep easier knowing you’re in control of who’s coming and going.
What to look for in a smart lock:
- Code management: Look for models that allow you to create and delete codes remotely.
- Wi-Fi or Bluetooth access: Handy if you want to control things from your phone.
- Auto-locking: Guests always forget. Let the hardware handle it.
- Backup key access: Just in case the battery dies.
A few of our go-to brands for this kind of hardware? Schlage, Kwikset, and Emtek—they’ve all got reliable keyless deadbolts that are built to last and look good, too.
Deadbolts That Don’t Mess Around
Even if you’re going keyless, a solid deadbolt is still a must. It’s your first line of defense against break-ins and wear-and-tear. Let’s face it—guests aren’t always gentle. You need deadbolt locks that can take a beating and keep working.
Go with Grade 1 or Grade 2 deadbolts—these are commercial-grade or high-quality residential options that hold up well under constant use. Bonus points if you can match the finish to your other hardware (we’re big fans of oil-rubbed bronze and matte black for that modern, clean look).
Passage Sets for Interior Doors
Now let’s talk inside the house. Bedroom doors in a rental usually don’t need locks (unless you’re renting by the room), so passage function door knobs or lever style door handles are perfect. They don’t lock, they’re easy to use, and they come in just about every style and finish you can think of.
If you’re furnishing a full rental from scratch, it’s worth buying matching sets for all your interior doors. It pulls the look together and makes everything feel cohesive—plus, it’s way easier than trying to hunt down individual pieces later.
Privacy Locks for Bathrooms
For any bathroom or private area, you’ll want privacy locksets. These let guests lock the door from the inside, but can still be unlocked from the outside with a small tool in case of emergencies (like when a curious toddler locks themselves in… hey, it happens).
Just like passage sets, privacy knobs and levers come in a ton of styles, so it’s easy to coordinate with the rest of your home’s look. And trust us—guests definitely notice when things match (and when they don’t).
Door Stops: The Unsung Heroes
You know what guests love to do? Slam doors into walls. Whether it’s a suitcase that gets shoved a little too far or someone flinging the bathroom door open at full speed, it’s only a matter of time before something gets dented.
Doorstops are cheap insurance. Pop one on the wall, baseboard, or floor and save yourself the drywall repairs. For rentals, we recommend spring-style stops or hinge pin models—they’re durable and easy to install, even after the rest of the house is set up.
Kickplates for High-Traffic Entryways
Another hardware upgrade that’s great for vacation rentals? Door kickplates. These go on the bottom of your exterior doors and protect the finish from scuffs, dings, and weather damage. Guests aren’t always going to be gentle with their luggage, and a kickplate keeps your door looking fresh, even after dozens of stays.
Plus, they look sharp. A brushed nickel or satin brass kickplate adds a little flair to your curb appeal and shows guests you’ve thought of the details.
Closet Knobs and Dummy Sets
Not every door in your rental needs to function like a normal door. Closet doors, for example, usually just need a dummy knob or lever—something fixed that looks nice and lets you pull the door open. These are easy to install and come in matching finishes to your passage or privacy sets.
If you’re locking off a closet for cleaning supplies or personal storage, consider using a keyed knob or a closet bolt so guests can’t get into your stuff. Out of sight, out of mind!
Don’t Forget the Details
It’s the little things that make a big difference. Matching door hinges, strike plates, and even door pulls on sliding or pocket doors can elevate the look of your space and make it feel more intentional. Guests might not call it out, but they do notice when everything feels polished and put together.
If you’re going for a certain vibe—modern farmhouse, industrial loft, beachy bohemian—we can help you find hardware that fits your aesthetic and keeps your space functional.
The Right Hardware Makes All the Difference
At the end of the day, hardware may not be the most glamorous part of setting up a rental, but it’s one of the most important. The right locks, knobs, and accessories make your life easier and your guests' experience smoother. From keyless entry systems to little details like closet knobs and kickplates, we’ve got everything you need to outfit your Airbnb like a pro.
Need help figuring out what works best for your property? Give us a call at 307-886-9449, or shoot us a text at 307-275-9700—we’re always happy to talk shop!
