"Costly and lengthy trips to the laundrette because the apartment doesn’t have a washing machine."

This illustrates one of the first understandings about renting Airbnbs: open the list of amenities to see if the place has what you need and want.

A washing machine is always on my list. If the place has none, I look for another place. In hot months, I look for an air conditioner.

You've got to be your own best advocate.

Of course, with regard to beds, you never know if they are going to measure up. We all take our chances with those. But read through reviews to see if there are complaints or compliments about the beds, so that you can have an understanding before you arrive.