BBC Radio Sussex & Daily Mail: The Biggest Holiday Rental Décor Turn-Offs (And What to Do Instead)
- amyelizabethinterior
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Earlier this week I was featured in the Daily Mail talking about the biggest interior design turn-offs in holiday rentals — and why certain décor choices can make guests swipe straight past a property.
Shortly afterwards, the topic was picked up by BBC Radio Sussex, where I had the chance to chat further about how quickly people judge holiday homes now, and how small details can have a surprisingly big impact on bookings.
With so much choice available, guests are scrolling fast — often deciding in under 10 seconds whether to click or move on. Calm, inviting spaces help people relax immediately. Awkward or cluttered ones tend to do the opposite. You can read the original Daily Mail article here:
The biggest holiday rental décor turn-offs
Furry toilet seat covers
This one always raises a smile, but there’s a reason it tops the list.
The moment people see a furry toilet seat, their brain often goes straight to “nope”. Even if it is technically clean, it doesn’t feel clean — and when you’re booking somewhere to stay, that feeling matters.
It can also feel gimmicky. Most guests want simple, hotel-style comfort rather than novelty items.
What to do instead: A standard white toilet seat, crisp towels and maybe a small plant will always win. Clean and simple is exactly what guests want in a bathroom.
Dolls and cuddly toys
These surprised a lot of people, but they trigger a strong reaction for a reason.
They’re very personal, and for some guests they can feel unsettling — especially when you’re staying somewhere unfamiliar. Guests don’t want to feel like they’re renting someone else’s personality or wake up at 3am staring at a porcelain doll face - creepy
What to do instead: Artwork, books and cushions add warmth without feeling personal. The goal is to help guests imagine themselves in the space.
Tired kitchens and bathrooms
Bathrooms and kitchens are big trust areas. If something looks worn, dated or shabby, guests start questioning how comfortable the stay will be — and when decisions are made quickly, that’s often enough to lose a booking.
What to do instead: You don’t need a full renovation. Small updates like new handles, taps, lighting or mirrors can completely change how a space feels.
Taxidermy and mirrors over beds
These choices can be quite polarising.
Taxidermy might suit a very specific style of property, but in most family-friendly holiday homes it can feel a bit intense. Mirrors over beds also make a lot of people uncomfortable — particularly families.
What to do instead: Use mirrors where they’re practical, and bring character in through artwork, texture and soft furnishings instead.
Clutter and knick-knacks
Clutter makes spaces feel busy and stressful. Guests immediately start thinking, “Where do I put my things?”
Calm, edited rooms feel easier to stay in and more generous in size.
What to do instead: Fewer, larger pieces styled thoughtfully. Clear surfaces make a space feel more relaxing and more functional.
What guests are actually looking for
Comfort and ease.
Guests want:
Good sleep
Space to unpack
A home that feels clean, calm and looked after
It’s not about following trends — it’s about how a space feels to live in, even for a short stay.
One low-cost change that makes a big difference
Bedding.
Crisp white bedding, good pillows and layered textures instantly elevate a space and photograph beautifully. It’s one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to achieve a hotel-level feel.
The best holiday homes aren’t the quirkiest ones — they’re the ones that feel calm, comfortable and easy to stay in.
And if in doubt… ditch the furry toilet seat. No one’s ever booked a holiday because of one.
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