The first day of school is fast approaching, and you want to ensure your classroom is a place where young minds are molded — and not where mold is harbored. If you’re wondering where to start, our checklist helps you hone in on the areas that need it the most, so you can get your classroom in tiptop shape in no time.

Why Is Back-to-School Cleaning Important?

Our classrooms are the epicenter of learning, and back-to-school cleaning is an important step that will help set your students up for success. If you’re not sure where to begin your cleanup project, it may be tempting to start with the easy tasks. However, we recommend tackling the more challenging projects first. Welcome your students to a new year and new opportunities with a deep cleaning. You can begin several weeks before the students return to school from summer break. Take a look at this checklist for some ideas to get you started.

Step 1: Disinfect Surfaces

Disinfecting your classroom surfaces is a terrific first step. Children can spread germs and viruses to other students as they touch and share various items. You’ll need several materials to start this process, including three or four soft and absorbent microfiber cloths, a glass cleaner, and an all-purpose cleaner (bonus points if you can find one that’s eco-friendly!). Next, clean visibly dirty areas with soap and water before disinfecting. For ideas of shared surfaces that may require disinfecting, see the checklist below:

Desks, including yours
Tables and chairs
Lockers and cubbies
Walls and windows
Cabinets and handles
Bookshelves
Door knobs
Light switches

Step 2: Sanitize Electronic Devices

You may wonder how to safely sanitize your classroom’s computer systems, and we’re here to help! Of course, you already know that spraying your student’s technology with a liquid cleanser isn’t the best option. However, using 70% alcohol wipes will safely disinfect your school’s tablets, keyboards, and display screens. It’s one of the best ways to sanitize your school’s devices while protecting your delicate digital devices.

First, shut down the devices and unplug their power adapters. Next, gently swab hard, nonporous exterior surfaces. Then use a soft, lint-free cloth to remove smudges. Always avoid using products containing bleach or hydrogen peroxide, as these products can cause damage.

Step 3: Vacuum and Mop Floors

Deep cleaning carpeted and laminate floors are your next steps. By the end of the school year, your classroom’s floor probably looks filthy. With our suggestions, you’ll make quick work of this chore.

Start by removing any tape or debris stuck on the floor, then use a broom or vacuum cleaner to pick up loose dirt and dust. Now it’s time to damp mop. You can choose from standard string and sponge varieties or try a steam mop to lift off the grime. Start at the back of the room farthest from the door and work your way out to the hallway.

If looking at your classroom rugs makes you nervous, consider sanitizing them as well. Over time, dirt, spills, and stains can make them look and smell musty. A deep cleaning will extend your rug’s life, and it’s as easy as sprinkling a powdered dry cleaning product on the fibers and then thoroughly vacuuming it up.

Step 4: Clean Sinks and Bathrooms

Not every classroom has the luxury of its own sink and bathroom. However, if yours does, you know these locations are hot spots for germs and mess. Don’t hesitate to get the kids involved as the year progresses to keep this area clean and tidy daily. Make sure to turn on fans for proper ventilation while disinfecting the restroom, then follow this checklist for a safe and sanitary washroom the kids will appreciate on the first day of school and beyond:

Disinfecting sinks, countertops, and fixtures
Clean and disinfect toilets and urinals
Wipe the mirror
Empty and sanitize trash cans
Mop the floor
Stock the bathroom with essentials like toilet paper, paper towels, and hand soap

Step 5: Wipe Down Whiteboards

Chances are you used your whiteboard daily last year. There may even be remnants of that math problem you erased ages ago, making it impossible to add any new notes. The marker ink builds up and smudges your display’s surface, creating a layer of grime that makes the board challenging to read and write on.

Erasers can only handle so much, so thoroughly clean your whiteboard using a cloth moistened with whiteboard cleaner before you launch into your first lesson. To revitalize the surface and keep it bright white and ready for a year of new ideas, follow these maintenance tips:

Clean the board weekly with a solution, such as warm soapy water or classic window cleaner.
Remove ghosting as needed by wiping the board with an isopropyl alcohol wipe.
Avoid wax-based solutions, like furniture polish, as they can leave behind a pesky film.

If you’re short on time or need an extra hand, leave it to the professionals. We can help you get your classroom sparkling clean and ready for the new year so you can focus on planning fun and educational activities. Schedule with us today, and your students can settle into a freshly-cleaned and sanitized area, ready to learn.