How to Clean Your Classroom During COVID-19

If your school is reconvening in person for the fall 2020 semester, the health of you and your students is the top priority. Wearing masks, washing hands and practicing social distancing to the best of everyone’s ability is going to be the key to a safe school year.

Your school has likely prepped you on custodial protocols, but here are some quick reminders that may help you keep a clean classroom.

Declutter Your Classroom

You’ve curated your classroom to be a great place for learning, but you might need to make some concessions for the fall 2020 semester. A lot of common classroom objects are a hassle to clean and can contribute to the spread of germs.

Here are some items you might want to consider pulling from your classroom before the semester starts:

• Rugs, especially those with high pile
• Any seating that isn’t necessary, like bean bag chairs
• Curtains and drapes
• Trash cans with lids — replace them with no-touch waste baskets instead
• Any hands-on items that aren’t critical for learning

Cleaning and Sanitizing

Making desks and other surfaces clean is a two-step process. First, scrub them with soap and water. This will get rid of any dirt or residue that students might leave behind on their desks. Once the surface is clean you can sanitize.

Here’s a handy list of EPA-approved disinfectants that are proven to kill SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Give each surface a good wipe down between classes. If EPA-approved disinfectants aren’t available, you can use any 70% alcohol solution instead.

Cleaning Checklist

Every passing period is an opportunity to clean and disinfect. Here are some common spots that might need your attention in between classes:

• Doorknobs
• The handles of drawers and cabinets
• Bookshelves
• Shared cubbies
• Light switches
• Art supplies
• Keyboards, tablet screens and other technology
• Faucet handles if your room has a sink
• Water fountains should NOT be used and should be turned off 
• Trash bins, especially those holding tissues and paper towels
• Any other hands-on learning materials
• Consider closing off or removing upholstered seating with cushions, pillows or bean bags

Once you’ve cleaned and sanitized, take a trip to the bathroom. Thoroughly wash your hands with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds before returning to your classroom.

Most importantly, if you or one of your students suspects that they may be sick with COVID-19, follow the protocols outlined by your school. Learning is critical for young people, but nothing is more important than their health and yours. With proper cleaning and sanitizing you can do your part to keep your classroom safe this semester.

For more information on COVID-19, visit our FAQ.