How to Furnish an Airbnb in Nairobi: Checklist and Furniture Tips (2026)

Short-let and Airbnb apartments are a big business in Nairobi — in Kilimani, Westlands, Kileleshwa, along Thika Road near the universities and the new estates, and near the airport. Guests choose, review and return based on photos and comfort, so furniture is your most important investment. This checklist helps you furnish a unit that photographs well, survives heavy use and earns good reviews.

Written by Bobby Furniture Kenya, which furnishes apartments and rental units across Nairobi.

Room-by-room furniture checklist

Living room

• Sofa or L-seat that seats the maximum number of guests (an L-seat often works best in small sitting rooms)
• Coffee table with rounded or solid edges
• TV stand with storage for remotes, router and spare items
• Accent chair if space allows — it adds a lot in photos

Bedroom(s)

• 5×6 or 6×6 bed in the main bedroom (guests expect at least a queen-size feel)
• Good mattress — guests remember the bed more than anything else
• Two nightstands with space for phones and lamps
• Wardrobe or open hanging space if there’s no built-in closet
• Double decker or two 3×6 beds in a second room for families or groups

Dining

• Dining set that seats as many guests as you list (a 4-seater for a 1-bedroom, 6-seater for 2–3 bedrooms)

Entrance and extras

• Shoe rack — Nairobi guests appreciate it
• Full-length mirror, luggage space

Choose fabrics that survive guests

• Corduroy and textured fabrics hide marks and wear better than light velvet. See corduroy vs velvet.
• Mid and dark colours (grey, charcoal, navy, olive, rust) stay looking fresh between cleans.
• Removable cushion covers make deep cleaning easier.
• Keep sofas out of strong direct sun — read our sofa care guide.

Budgeting a short-let unit

• Put the most money into the bed, mattress and sofa. These drive reviews.
• Keep décor modest; a few strong pieces photograph better than a crowded room.
• Furnishing several units at once with matching designs saves time and makes listings look professional.

See current prices: sofa sets, 5 by 6 beds, 6 by 6 beds, double decker beds, dining tables, TV stands and shoe racks. For a ready-made total, see our 1- and 2-bedroom apartment packages.

Furnishing more than one unit

If you’re furnishing several apartments, send us the number of units, rooms and your budget on WhatsApp. We quote the full set, can make sofas and beds in matching colours and sizes across all your units, and plan one delivery schedule.

FAQ

What furniture do I need for an Airbnb in Nairobi?

At minimum: a sofa or L-seat, coffee table, TV stand, a bed and mattress per bedroom, nightstands, a dining set and a shoe rack. Add an accent chair and good lighting for better photos.

What is the best sofa fabric for an Airbnb?

Durable, textured fabrics such as corduroy in mid or dark colours. They hide marks and wear well with frequent guests.

Can one shop furnish my whole apartment?

Yes. Bobby Furniture Kenya supplies living room, bedroom, dining and storage furniture, delivered and set up across Nairobi. WhatsApp 0708 156 310 for a quote.