Airbnb Host Refused Refund After Dirty Linens and Early Checkout

We rented a house in Miami through Airbnb from July 17 to September 15, 2024. Initially, everything seemed great—the location and view were fantastic. However, when we unpacked the bedding, the comforter and pillowcases were dirty and stained. We didn’t make a big deal of it at first and just washed them ourselves. Things took a turn when our baby was born on August 24, 2024. When we returned home and tried to use the spare sheets and blankets, we found them filthy and stained as well. Our baby became unwell, and we had to return to our home country earlier than planned.

I left a negative review and then received a message from a foreign number—apparently the host’s assistant—offering a refund if I removed the review. I had paid $6,000 for a two-month stay and requested a partial refund for the 15 days we didn’t stay. Despite ongoing WhatsApp conversations where they claimed to be investigating, after 20 days, they informed me that they wouldn’t issue a refund.

I reported the situation to Airbnb, but I’ve only been able to speak with automated representatives. I’ve informed them that I plan to pursue legal action for the distress this situation caused my baby. Airbnb’s lack of real support is unacceptable, and I will hold them accountable for what my family experienced.