When staying in an Airbnb or short-term rental, kosher travelers should assume that the kitchen and its equipment were previously used without kosher standards. The Chicago Rabbinical Council (cRc), provides practical guidance to help travelers make informed decisions about what can and cannot be used safely in a rental setting through a recently released guideline.
General Assumptions
All utensils, appliances, countertops, sinks, and kitchen equipment in an Airbnb or hotel should be assumed to be non-kosher, even if the owner states that the property is only rented to guests who keep kosher. This assumption applies across the board and should guide all food preparation decisions.
Stovetop Use
Kosher pots and pans brought from home may be used on the stovetop. If the stovetop has a glass surface, it is recommended to turn on each burner, one or two at a time, for approximately 15 minutes before placing a kosher pot on that area of the surface for the first time. This applies only to the stovetop surface and not to cookware provided by the rental.
Oven Use
An oven may be used only after proper kashering. Two acceptable methods are outlined. The first option is running a full self-clean cycle. The second option is to thoroughly clean the oven and then heat it to 550 degrees Fahrenheit for one hour. Without completing one of these processes, the oven should not be used for kosher food preparation.
Microwave Use
A microwave may be used in one of two ways. One option is to clean any visible residue and then double-wrap the food completely on all sides before heating. The second option is to kasher the microwave by cleaning it thoroughly, removing the glass turntable, which cannot be kashered, and boiling a cup of water inside the microwave for ten to fifteen minutes until the interior fills with steam.
Coffee Maker Use
A coffee maker may be used only if it can be confirmed that all coffee pods or pouches provided are kosher. This generally applies to pure, unflavored coffee or products with reliable kosher certification. Even when the coffee itself is acceptable, the carafe and cups provided by the Airbnb or hotel should not be used. Disposable cups or cups brought from home should be used instead.
Dishwasher and Toaster
Dishwashers and toasters may not be kashered and may not be used under any circumstances. This restriction applies regardless of cleanliness or prior use claims.
Utensils, Surfaces, and Sinks
Items such as can openers, corkscrews, countertops, cups, dishes, silverware, sinks, tables, and water pitchers may not be used for hot food or hot liquids. If these items are clean, they may be used for cold or room-temperature purposes only, such as opening a can or drinking tap water. When inspecting items for cleanliness, particular attention should be paid to cracks, seams, and crevices where food residue may be trapped.
Condiments & Spices
Opened bottles and containers of kosher-certified items, such as salt, pepper, ketchup, and mustard, which are commonly found in Airbnb cabinets and kitchens, are not recommended for use.
Items to Avoid Completely
Oven mitts, placemats, and colanders provided by the rental should not be used. These items are difficult to assess for cleanliness and are assumed to have absorbed non-kosher residue.
Practical Takeaway
Travelers staying in an Airbnb should plan ahead by bringing essential kosher cookware, disposable items, and basic supplies. Understanding what can be kashered, what can be used only under limited conditions, and what must be avoided entirely can help ensure a smoother and more comfortable stay.
For situation-specific questions, travelers should consult their own halachic authority.
