Keeping a school clean isn’t just a box-ticking exercise; it’s a crucial part of protecting student health, supporting attendance and maintaining a positive learning environment. From classrooms and canteens to corridors and toilets, every space plays a role in student wellbeing. But when it comes to school cleaning, how often is enough?
Why School Cleaning Matters
In 2023-24, the pupil absence rate in England was 7.1%, with illness accounting for half of all absences. That averages to one in fourteen school days missed due to sickness.
Research of 400 primary school teachers and 500 parents and children showed that improving school cleanliness can significantly reduce absences. In UK primary schools:
- 59% of teachers believe that better toilet hygiene would reduce illness among students and staff
- 42% link poor toilet hygiene to concentration issues
- 44% of primary pupils avoid using school toilets due to cleanliness concerns
- 52% avoid drinking or eating to avoid them
That’s learning and health going down the drain.
Daily, Weekly and Termly Cleaning
Using guidelines from the Department of Education and UK Health authorities, here’s how to structure your cleaning routine.
Daily Cleaning
- Classrooms: Disinfect desks, door handles and shared equipment
- Toilets: Clean and sanitise all touchpoints, flushes, taps, soap dispensers
- Corridors and Entrances: Sweep, mop and disinfect handrails and door plates
- Canteens: Fully clean surfaces after use
- High-Touch Surfaces: Light switches, bannisters, shared IT devices
Weekly Cleaning
- Deep-Clean Surfaces: Shelves, windowsills, noticeboards
- Dust High Areas: Vents, light fixtures, cupboard tops
- Move Furniture: Mop underneath desks and chairs thoroughly (where possible)
Termly Cleaning
- Deep clean of windows and floors
- Sanitise walls, lockers and storage areas
- Refill with school cleaning supplies, such as disinfectant wipes, sanitiser, blue roll and gloves
How to Clean a School
Set up a shared cleaning schedule so staff know what, where and when to clean. Use effective, quality school cleaning products that are approved for school settings; ineffective products waste time and money.
Here’s what every school stockroom should include:
At Galleon Supplies, we offer everything from everyday disinfectants to bulk buy products, with expert advice to help you choose the best items.
Clean Classrooms Lead to Success
A cleaner school isn’t just healthier, it’s a better place to learn. Improved hygiene leads to better behaviour, reduced stress and stronger academic results.
Let’s not forget toilets.
Over half of primary teachers believe better hygiene here would reduce illness and concentration issues. So skipping bathroom breaks isn’t just uncomfortable, it’s detrimental.
For a breakdown of all the must-have items, from classrooms to communal areas, check out our full guide: Essential Cleaning Supplies Every School Needs.
Create a Cleaner and Healthier School
So, how often should schools be cleaned? Every day and even more in high-traffic and hygiene-critical areas. A structured cleaning schedule, quality products and engaged staff can help lower illness and keep learning high.
Let Galleon Supplies help you create a cleaner and safer school environment. Browse our range of school cleaning products.
