People are sharing their worst Airbnb experiences on Twitter

Excuse me while I grab some popcorn.
 By 
Rizwana Zafer
 on 
Airbnb logo with overlayed tweets.
Credit: Carl CourtStaff.

Earlier this week, a Twitter user shared pictures of what she thought looked like cameras disguised as fire sprinklers scattered throughout her Airbnb in Philadelphia. This prompted other users to begin sharing their Airbnb horror stories on Twitter. While an investigation conducted by the Philadelphia police concluded that there were no hidden cameras in the Airbnb, the social media damage had already been done.

Airbnb has strict guidelines on cameras and recording devices, requiring hosts to disclose which devices are on the premises. These devices are also only allowed in common spaces, such as front doors or driveways. 

“Our policies strictly prohibit hidden cameras and we take forceful action in the exceptionally rare circumstances where this has been reported, including assisting law enforcement to help them hold criminals accountable,” an Airbnb spokesperson tells Mashable. “Our Safety Team is available 24/7 to support guests with safety concerns.”

From the stream of tweets and posts this week, it seems like most of the negative experiences at Airbnbs seem to be attributed to the hosts, rather than the accommodations. Many cite high cleaning fees, in addition to rules that  require paying guests to clean the units anyway, some even enforcing chore lists before checkout and strict accommodation rules. 

The Airbnb versus hotels debate has been ongoing, and with the increasing demands of hosts and ever-rising prices of rentals, people are contemplating ditching Airbnb altogether. This goes for both guests and former Airbnb hosts.

Topics X/Twitter Airbnb

Mashable Image
Rizwana Zafer

Rizwana Zafer is the culture intern at Mashable.

Mashable Potato

Recommended For You
Airbnb is testing AI-powered search to help users with bookings
Airbnb logo

Airbnb now lets you book a ride to your accommodation
Airbnb's travel option mocked up on a smartphone.


Razzies 2026: Here are the worst of the worst
Rebel Wilson does a karate pose on the red carpet for Bride Hard.

FTC doesn't fine OkCupid for sharing millions of users' personal data
okcupid logo on phone

Trending on Mashable
NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 3, 2026
Connections game on a smartphone

Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 3, 2026
Wordle game on a smartphone

Google launches Gemma 4, a new open-source model: How to try it
Google Gemma

What's new to streaming this week? (April 3, 2026)
A composite of images from film and TV streaming this week.

The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
These newsletters may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. By clicking Subscribe, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!