Cleaning and disinfecting the classroom has always been a critical part of keeping kids healthy and safe in school and it’s more important than ever as we enter into the second school year with the pandemic. When it comes to sanitizing a classroom, the chemicals that you use to clean are very important. You want to be sure that whatever brand of cleaning and sanitizing chemicals you have chosen to use are effective and that they don’t leave any residue that may cause harm to students after cleaning. A favorite here at Cook’s is Nyco Chemical which is located in the Chicago area relatively close to us. Along with having an effective sanitizer, you must also be sure that you are thoroughly cleaning all the various surfaces that students come into contact with daily. Here is a checklist that can help you implement proper cleaning and disinfecting procedures daily and not miss any critical areas.
1. Remove any objects or clutter from all surfaces within the class rooms
2. Dust all desks, shelves and whiteboards being careful to dust from top to bottom so you aren’t just moving the dust from one shelf to the next. Also be sure to dust all air vents.
3. Deep clean all surfaces from top to bottom. Start by removing any dirt and stains from walls, shelves, counters, desks and chairs. Also check any classroom sinks, clean and unclog the drain if needed.
4. Look for shared objects in the classroom, like a computer keyboard, and clean and disinfect all of these.
5. Spray/apply disinfectant solution to high-touch surfaces. We recommend Sani-Spritz Spray. You should allow any disinfectant to remain on desks & chairs, door or cabinet handles, play areas, light switches, counters and shared supplies and sinks and faucets.
6. Use disinfectant cleaning wipes that are safe for electronics on all computers and other electronic objects like phones, smartboards, tablets. Etc.
7. Clean all glass surfaces with glass cleaner including windows and doors.
8. Replace and replenish soap, paper, tissues and hand sanitation supplies and cleaning supplies in the classroom.
9. Check and empty the pencil sharpeners.
10. Clean and wipe down all sinks and fixtures.
11. Go back and wipe clean any of the disinfectant solution that is left on the high touch areas in #5.
12. Empty out the trash receptacles and replace the liners. Be sure that you immediately wash and sanitize your hands after disposing of the waste.
13. Vacuum carpeted high traffic areas. Use a spot cleaning chemical or cleaner to remove stains if needed.
14. Dust mop and then wet mop all hard floors with a disinfectant solution or disinfecting floor cleaner.
15. Dispose of cleaning cloths and mop towels used for cleaning in an expedient manner.
16. You’re done with the room, so be sure to wash hands thoroughly and immediately once you’ve finished a room.
