With hundreds of pupils passing through the school gates each day, clean classrooms and hygienic hallways are essential. However, in busy environments like schools, it’s all too easy to let standards slip. Whilst the main purpose of cleanliness is to minimise the risk of infection, there are other unexpected benefits as well.
In this article, we will discuss ways to keep a school clean and provide some useful information on how to implement a hygiene policy that gives staff and pupils collective responsibility. If you are feeling unsure how to keep a school clean, whilst ensuring school schedules run smoothly, read on to find out more.
Why is Keeping a School Clean So Important?
Schools, like any other place with high volumes of people, are a breeding ground for germs to spread. If not kept under control, viruses will quickly take hold, causing illness in both staff and students alike. The consequences of this mean many hours of attendance will be lost to absence, which has a detrimental effect on everyone over time.
Another reason cleanliness is so important is general morale. Studies show that clean and hygienic environments have a positive effect on well-being and motivation. So, keeping your school clean will improve the happiness of staff, students and visitors and enhance performance and learning.
6 Ways to Keep a School Clean
So how do schools implement a cleaning policy that is sustainable and effective?
1. Establish a Daily Cleaning Routine
By tackling cleaning daily, you can keep on top of dust and make sure surfaces are wiped. Focus on classrooms and other communal areas like hallways, paying attention to touch points like railings and desks. Make sure floors are regularly mopped and that cleaning products are readily available to use.
2. Promote Student and Staff Responsibility
Everyone has a part to play in keeping your school clean. Everything from throwing away rubbish to wiping feet on mats all contributes to good hygiene standards. Use posters to keep staff and students mindful of their shared environment.
3. Use Proper Cleaning Equipment and Eco-Friendly Products
Cleaning is only effective when you have the right tools and products. Make sure you have industry-approved, eco-friendly cleaning chemicals and that volumes are monitored so that you don’t run out of supplies.
4. Implement Regular Deep-Cleaning Schedules
Deep cleaning can be performed outside of normal school hours, so it does not disrupt staff and students. This can include carpeted floors, chairs, gym equipment and the canteen.
5. Prevent Littering and Germ Spread
Make sure everyone has access to waste bins and provide anti-bacterial sanitiser throughout the premises. Promote regular hand washing and use plenty of signage throughout toilets and communal areas.
6. Regular Inspections and Feedback
When it comes to cleaning, it’s easy to become complacent, especially during busy times of year. That’s why regular inspections and feedback are vital to stay motivated.
How to Clean a School: Final Thoughts
We hope this article has given you some insight into ways to keep a school clean. Remember, the team at Scott and Sons are experts in school cleaning and offer scheduled cleaning services that work around the needs of students and staff. Why not give us a call to find out more?Â
