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Educational Facility Cleaning: Why Cleanliness in Schools is Critical

Aug 15, 2023 | Commercial Cleaning

It’s back to school season, which means schools, universities, and other educational facilities are getting ready to welcome their students. From cafeterias to classrooms, a big part of this process is ensuring that the learning environment is clean and healthy. 

An inviting educational space fosters positivity, creativity, and productivity. Students spend such a large amount of their time learning in school, and this time should be spent in places that make cleanliness, sanitation, and disinfection a priority. 

Yes, teaching methods, curriculum, class size, are factors that impact students, however a clean learning environment is non-negotiable and something that cannot be overlooked.

The complexities of keeping a school clean

Before addressing why schools need to be meticulously clean, it’s important to remember the wide range of spaces that require specific cleaning methods. 

These spaces include, but are not limited to:

  • Classrooms
  • Bathrooms
  • Gymnasiums
  • Cafeterias
  • Technological equipment
  • Break rooms/lounges
  • Offices 
  • Hallways
  • Floors
  • Windows
  • Outside areas

Each of these spaces require specialized techniques, and thus it’s advantageous to partner with a versatile commercial cleaning company.

The benefits of a clean learning environment  

Reduce health risks for students, faculty, and guests.

Particularly with COVID-19 still a recent memory, it continues to be important for schools to mitigate health risks by keeping robust cleaning and hygiene standards high. 

Schools can be a breeding ground for germs that lead to the flu, common cold, and other illnesses. These risks can be reduced with proper commercial cleaning and disinfection methods. 

A clean school is a better-attended school.

A hygienic environment means fewer sick days taken by students, which will ultimately lead to better classroom participation and growth. Frequent illness and absences can negatively impact students’ opportunities to thrive. How can they be expected to learn properly if unable to attend?

According to The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), there are 14 million missed school days annually nationwide due to asthma symptoms. A school must be proactive and diligent about eliminating allergens and other irritants that may lead to such absences. 

Additionally, mold can be prevalent in a school environment that is not well-kept. Mold can lead to increased health issues such as cough, wheezing, sore throat, sneezing and sinus problems, fatigue, headache, runny nose, and other health problems for both students and teachers. 

Clean spaces are better for learning.

Research shows that clean, uncluttered spaces make it easier for the brain to focus and process information. Well-maintained classrooms and other learning spaces in schools will result in less distractions and better student engagement.

A better learning atmosphere will boost morale, productivity, and lead to better academic performance.

Support the mental health of both students & teachers. 

School may be a place of stress and pressure for students and faculty alike, and clutter, dirt, and disarray can lead to distraction and other challenges.  

Conversely, a clean,  bright, and well-maintained space will help create a more safe and secure mindset that can lead to improved academic performance and more positive well-being for all. 

Teachers & staff can focus on what they do best. 

A clean and healthy learning environment will support a more productive staff, free from the distractions of a messy classroom or school. Rather than spending time in between classes to tidy up their space, teachers can instead lesson plan, grade assignments, take breaks, etc.

Like students, teachers will thrive and be at their best when they are in an environment that supports their well-being.

Maintain the life of educational and other equipment.

Student learning facilities typically require lots of equipment and supplies. Whether it’s an elementary school playground or whiteboards in a university classroom, regularly-cleaned and cared for equipment will last longer. 

This means less long term expenses for the school district and better resources for the students!

Understanding the Unique Needs of Educational Settings

The benefits of a clean and safe learning environment are clear, however it can be a challenge to meet the vast needs for schools.

Whether or not your educational institution has a dedicated in-house custodial team, partnering with a professional cleaning company will ensure that your school meets and exceeds the cleanliness needs of your students.

Here at ABS, we offer customized solutions for every learning space. From meeting the demands of large campus facilities to smaller daycare centers, we have decades of experience working with the education industry. We understand the importance of germ control, disinfection, and sanitation, and can adapt our versatile services to every specific learning environment.  

We offer: 

  • Professional expertise and knowledge in educational facility cleaning
  • Flexibility in cleaning schedules to accommodate academic calendars and schedules
  • Specialized cleaning techniques for various surfaces and environments (i.e. laboratories, computer clusters, bathrooms, etc.)
  • Incorporating eco-friendly practices
  • 24/7 emergency services 

You’re invited to experience the ABS difference. Connect with us today and let’s discuss how we can make this the cleanest (and happiest!) school year yet for students and staff.

Source:

EPA