What Should Be in a School Cleaning Plan?

Ever walk into a school and instantly notice how clean—or not clean—it is? Whether it’s a hallway with sticky floors or a classroom that still smells like yesterday’s lunch, the state of a school can say a lot. That’s why having a solid cleaning plan isn’t just nice—it’s kind of essential.

So what exactly should be in a school cleaning plan? Let’s break it down.

Start With the Basics (Because They Matter)

A good plan covers all the everyday stuff: sweeping, mopping, taking out trash, and wiping down surfaces. But it’s not just about checking boxes. These basic tasks help keep things safe, healthy, and even boost focus for students and teachers alike.

It’s also where commercial cleaning services really come in handy—they know how to create routines that actually get followed (and don’t just exist on paper).

Don’t Forget High-Touch Surfaces

Kids touch everything. And I mean everything—door handles, desks, railings, light switches, bathroom sinks. Any school cleaning plan worth its salt needs a checklist for disinfecting these high-touch spots daily. Not just when flu season rolls around.

Think Beyond the Classroom

It’s easy to focus on classrooms, but schools are full of other spaces that need attention:

• Cafeterias (hello, food spills)
• Gyms (sweat, germs, more sweat)
• Locker rooms
• Libraries
• Front offices
• Buses

A real plan accounts for all of them, not just the places where lessons happen.

Schedule the Deep Cleans

Some cleaning jobs don’t need to happen every day—but they shouldn’t be forgotten either. This includes things like:

• Carpet shampooing
• Floor waxing
• Vent cleaning
• Window washing
• Pressure washing exterior areas

Most schools schedule these during breaks or weekends. That’s when you usually see a commercial cleaning service rolling in with the big gear.

Customize for Your School

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. A small elementary school in the suburbs won’t have the same needs as a big high school downtown. If you’re looking for school cleaning in Baltimore, make sure whoever’s helping you is tailoring the plan to your building’s size, layout, and schedule.

Bonus: Communication & Accountability

Even the best cleaning plan falls apart if no one’s checking the work. It helps to have:

• Daily checklists
• Weekly inspections
• A clear point of contact for feedback

Some schools work directly with in-house janitors, others bring in professionals. Either way, it’s all about consistency and follow-through.

Bottom line

a good school cleaning plan isn’t just about keeping things tidy. It’s about protecting students, supporting staff, and creating a space that feels welcoming and safe.

And let’s be real—if we’re asking kids to wash their hands and cover their sneezes, the least we can do is keep the place clean too.