Furniture choices in a short-term rental matter more than most hosts expect. The wrong pieces wear out quickly, create maintenance issues, or make spaces feel cramped and uncomfortable. The right furniture supports guest comfort, photographs well, and holds up to repeated use without constant replacement.
This STR furniture essentials checklist focuses on furniture that works in real short-term rentals — pieces that are durable, functional, easy to clean, and flexible for different guest groups. These are not trend-driven décor picks. They’re furniture choices designed to survive turnover, luggage, kids, pets, and everyday use.
Everything below reflects what we’ve found performs best over time in active STRs.
How to Use This STR Furniture Essentials Checklist
This page is designed to be a working setup guide for hosts and owners.
Use this checklist when:
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Furnishing a new short-term rental
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Replacing worn or underperforming furniture
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Upgrading for durability and guest comfort
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Simplifying a space that feels cluttered or fragile
This guide prioritizes:
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Durability over trends
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Comfort without excess
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Furniture that resets easily between stays
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Pieces that serve more than one purpose
Core STR Furniture Essentials (Must-Haves)
If you’re equipping a short-term rental from scratch, start here. These furniture categories deliver the biggest impact with the least risk.
Core essentials include:
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Comfortable seating with solid frames
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A properly sized dining table and chairs
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Storage furniture that hides clutter
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Lighting that supports function, not just style
Seating: Comfortable, Sturdy, and Easy to Maintain
Seating gets the most wear in a short-term rental. Chairs should feel supportive, look good in photos, and stand up to frequent use.
Accent Chairs That Hold Up
Well-chosen accent chairs add seating without overwhelming a space.
Best-performing options include:
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Upholstered accent chairs with solid frames
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Matching chair sets for symmetry
Look for:
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Firm cushions that don’t flatten quickly
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Easy-to-clean upholstery
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Arms and backs that feel supportive
Avoid delicate fabrics or lightweight frames that shift easily.
Oversized Chairs: Use Strategically
Oversized accent chairs can work well in larger living rooms or primary bedrooms, especially when they include hidden storage.
Best uses:
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Reading corners
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Bedroom seating
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Extra lounging space without adding a sofa
Make sure oversized chairs don’t block walkways or doors.
Dining Furniture: Right-Sized and Guest-Friendly
Dining furniture should feel comfortable and proportional — not oversized or cramped.
Dining Tables That Work for STRs
Round tables are excellent for smaller spaces and flexible seating. Rectangular or trestle tables work well in larger dining areas.
Strong STR options include:
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45″ round wood dining tables
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Solid wood trestle dining tables
Look for:
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Stable bases
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Durable finishes
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Enough surface area for meals and games
Dining Chairs: Durable and Replaceable
Dining chairs take a lot of abuse in short-term rentals. Choose styles that are sturdy and easy to replace individually if needed.
Good options include:
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Metal dining chairs
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Mid-century bucket chairs
Avoid chairs with:
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Delicate joints
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Light upholstery that stains easily
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Unstable legs
Storage Furniture: Hide Clutter, Protect Surfaces
Storage furniture is one of the most underrated categories in STRs. The right storage keeps spaces tidy and protects surfaces from guest clutter.
Sideboards & Cabinets
Sideboards and buffet cabinets provide:
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Hidden storage for supplies
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A place for coffee bars or serving items
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Protection against guests stacking items on tables
Strong options include:
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Rattan storage cabinets
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Buffet cabinets with drawers and doors
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Sideboards with glass doors for visibility
Lighting: Functional First, Decorative Second
Lighting should support how guests actually use a space.
Floor Lamps That Work
Tripod-style floor lamps are popular because they:
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Provide good ambient lighting
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Are easy to move
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Add warmth without clutter
Look for lamps with:
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Stable bases
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Neutral shades
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Standard bulb sizes
Avoid fragile shades or lamps that tip easily.
Furniture Layout Tips for STRs
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Leave clear walkways
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Avoid overcrowding rooms
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Choose fewer, better pieces
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Make sure seating faces TVs or conversation areas
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Ensure dining chairs can be pulled out easily
Comfort and flow matter more than filling space.
Common Furniture Mistakes to Avoid
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Choosing furniture based only on looks
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Buying lightweight or flimsy pieces
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Overfurnishing rooms
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Using fabrics that stain or pill easily
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Skipping storage furniture
STR Furniture Essentials Checklist (Complete List)
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Complete Short-Term Rental Essentials (Room by Room)
Use the links below to access the complete checklist for each space.
Short-Term Rental Essentials Hub
STR Kitchen Essentials Checklist
STR Bedroom Essentials Checklist
STR Outdoor Essentials Checklist
STR Game Room Essentials Checklist
STR Coffee Bar Essentials Checklist
STR Security Essentials Checklist
STR Living Room Essentials Checklist
STR Household Essentials Checklist
Final Thoughts
Furniture sets the tone for how guests experience your short-term rental — and how much work it creates for you as a host. When you prioritize durability, comfort, and function, your furniture works with you instead of against you.
Use this checklist as a foundation, adapt it to your property’s size and layout, and replace pieces strategically as your STR evolves.
Last Updated 1/6/2026