How to Safely Use Alexa in Your Airbnb
Smart speakers like Amazon Alexa can make your rental stand out, offering guests a modern, convenient experience. But as a host, it's important to set up your Alexa device in a way that protects your guests, your property, and your own peace of mind. Here's a practical guide to getting it right�no tech jargon, just clear steps and advice.
1. Preventing Unauthorised Purchases
Alexa can be used to order products from Amazon with just a voice command. In a rental property, you don't want guests (or their children) accidentally or intentionally making purchases on your account.
How to prevent this:
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Turn off voice purchasing:
- � Open the Alexa app on your phone
- � Go to Settings > Account Settings > Voice Purchasing
- � Switch it off, or set a purchase code (PIN) that only you know
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Don't link any payment methods:
Avoid connecting your main credit card to the Alexa account used in your rental
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Regularly check your Amazon order history for any unexpected purchases
2. Guest Privacy and Data Protection
Your guests' privacy is essential. Alexa devices are always listening for their wake word, and some guests may be concerned about being recorded.
Best practices:
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Let guests know Alexa is present:
Mention it in your listing and in your welcome materials
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Explain what Alexa does and doesn't do:
Reassure guests that Alexa only listens after hearing its wake word (like "Alexa"), and make it clear that you do not record or monitor their conversations
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Delete voice recordings regularly:
- � In the Alexa app, go to Settings > Alexa Privacy > Review Voice History
- � Delete all recordings, or set Alexa to automatically delete them every 3 months
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Place Alexa in common areas only:
Avoid putting Alexa devices in bedrooms or bathrooms
3. Recommended Alexa Settings for Short-Lets
A few simple settings can make Alexa safer and more guest-friendly in your property.
Create a dedicated Amazon account for your rental
Don't use your personal Amazon account. Set up a new one just for your property.
Pro tip: Use "plus addressing"
If you have Gmail or another provider that supports it, use plus addressing for convenience.
For example, if your email is [email protected],
you can create an account with [email protected]�emails
will still go to your main inbox, but you'll know which account is for Alexa.
Disable Drop-In and calling features
Prevent guests from making calls or dropping in on other Alexa devices.
Limit smart home controls
Only connect devices (like lights or thermostats) that you want guests to control.
Enable the "My Host" Alexa Skill
Install our Alexa skill to deliver personalized greetings, share WiFi passwords, house rules, and checkout instructions�all through voice commands. Guests simply say "Alexa, tell My Host we're here" and Alexa welcomes them by name.
Enable skill in Alexa app4. Balancing Convenience with Security
Alexa can make your property more welcoming, but it's important to balance guest convenience with safety and privacy.
Tips for a smooth experience:
Smart, Safe, and Guest-Friendly
With a few thoughtful steps, you can offer the benefits of Alexa in your rental without risking your guests' privacy or your own security. Most guests will appreciate the convenience, and you'll have peace of mind knowing you've set things up the right way.
Summary checklist:
- Use a separate Amazon account for your rental (consider plus addressing for easy management)
- Turn off voice purchasing and calling features
- Delete voice recordings regularly
- Place Alexa only in shared spaces
- Provide clear, friendly instructions for guests
By following these tips, you'll create a modern, secure, and welcoming environment that guests will remember for all the right reasons.
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