As the school year approaches, principals, facility managers, and custodial teams shift into high gear. Classrooms are being prepped, hallways polished, and supplies restocked. But one area that often gets overlooked—or rushed—is deep cleaning.
A fresh, sanitary learning environment doesn’t just look good. It helps reduce illness, boost attendance, and create a healthier experience for students, teachers, and staff. And with high foot traffic, shared surfaces, and the reality of flu season just around the corner, schools need more than a quick surface wipe.
At Complete Cleaning Company, we’ve supported educational institutions across Chicago for over five decades, from public schools to private academies and libraries. Here are our top back-to-school commercial cleaning tips to help your facility start the year strong.
1. Start with a Deep Clean Before Students Return
Summer break is the best time to tackle large-scale cleaning projects that are hard to do once school is in session.
Focus areas:
• Strip and wax hard floors in hallways and cafeterias
• Deep clean carpets in classrooms and libraries
• Sanitize gymnasiums, locker rooms, and multipurpose rooms
• Clean HVAC vents and ceiling fans to improve air circulation
• Wash windows inside and out for a brighter learning space
These areas accumulate dust, grime, and allergens over time. A deep clean now makes routine maintenance easier throughout the year.
2. Prioritize High-Touch Surface Disinfection
Once school is back in session, germs will spread quickly—especially in classrooms, computer labs, restrooms, and cafeterias.
Make sure to regularly disinfect:
• Desk surfaces
• Door handles and light switches
• Shared electronics (keyboards, tablets, printers)
• Handrails and stairwells
• Sink handles and restroom partitions
Use EPA-approved disinfectants and follow dwell-time recommendations for effective germ elimination.
3. Don’t Forget Restrooms and Locker Rooms
These areas are high-risk for germs, odors, and cross-contamination. Daily cleaning is essential, but deeper weekly sanitation is just as important.
Tips:
• Use separate color-coded cloths and mops for restroom areas
• Refill hand soap and sanitizer stations regularly
• Scrub grout, tile, and floor drains to avoid bacteria buildup
• Pay extra attention to locker room benches and shower areas
Proper ventilation and disinfection in these spaces help prevent mold and musty smells—common issues in older school buildings.
4. Address Indoor Air Quality
Clean air matters—especially with growing concerns about respiratory health. Dust, allergens, and poor ventilation can affect student performance and lead to absenteeism.
How to improve it:
• Replace air filters before the school year
• Clean ceiling vents and HVAC units
• Vacuum with HEPA filters to trap dust and allergens
• Keep windows clean to allow natural light and airflow
At Complete Cleaning Company, we often work with facility teams in Chicago schools to improve air quality through regular vent cleaning and dust control.
5. Clean Cafeterias Like Commercial Kitchens
School cafeterias must meet strict hygiene standards, just like any food-service establishment.
Key protocols:
• Disinfect tables and trays between every lunch period
• Mop floors after each service to prevent slips and spills
• Clean under equipment and behind appliances
• Sanitize food prep surfaces and storage areas
• Ensure proper waste management and pest control
Regular deep cleans in these areas help avoid contamination and maintain safe food handling conditions.
6. Set a Cleaning Schedule for the Semester
Creating a written cleaning schedule ensures consistency and accountability. It helps staff, contractors, or cleaning vendors stay aligned and meet your facility’s standards.
Include:
• Daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning tasks
• Assigned responsibilities (in-house vs. outsourced)
• Checklists for classrooms, common areas, and restrooms
• Periodic deep clean dates (holidays or long weekends)
• Emergency protocols for illness outbreaks or weather-related messes
If you work with a commercial cleaning partner like Complete Cleaning Company, we can help you build a customized plan that fits your school calendar and cleaning goals.
7. Train Staff on Cleaning Best Practices
Whether you manage an internal custodial team or hire an outside company, everyone should be on the same page. Regular training keeps cleaning efficient, safe, and effective.
Focus on:
• Proper use of disinfectants
• Safe chemical storage
• PPE usage and safety practices
• Color-coded tools to prevent cross-contamination
• Emergency cleanup procedures (vomit, blood, biohazards)
Our team regularly trains staff across Chicago educational facilities on proper sanitation techniques, especially during cold and flu season.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should a school schedule a deep clean?
The best time is during summer break, winter break, or long weekends when buildings are empty. This allows full access to classrooms, gymnasiums, and hard-to-reach areas.
How often should school restrooms be cleaned?
Restrooms should be cleaned at least once daily, with high-traffic schools cleaning multiple times per day. Deep cleaning should be done weekly or biweekly.
Is daily disinfection necessary during the school year?
Yes, especially on high-touch surfaces like desks, door handles, and shared equipment. Regular disinfection helps prevent illness and outbreaks.
What should be included in a school cleaning contract?
A detailed scope of work, frequency of services, disinfecting protocols, staff training requirements, and flexibility for emergencies or seasonal adjustments.
Can schools request eco-friendly cleaning products?
Absolutely. Many schools in Chicago are moving toward green cleaning practices. At Complete Cleaning Company, we offer eco-conscious options that are safe for students and the environment.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your educational facility for the back-to-school season means more than just stocking supplies; it also means creating a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for learning.
By focusing on deep cleaning, disinfection, and air quality now, you’ll be setting the tone for a healthier, more productive school year.
If your Chicago-area school needs a reliable cleaning partner, Complete Cleaning Company is here to help. We specialize in commercial and educational cleaning, with tailored plans that keep your facility running smoothly from the first bell to the last day of school.
