Back-to-School Cleaning Checklist for Schools & Daycares: How to Keep Students and Staff Healthy All Year

The back-to-school season is filled with excitement—new teachers, new friends, and fresh opportunities to learn and grow. But for schools and daycares, it also marks the beginning of cold and flu season, where germs can spread quickly through classrooms, hallways, and play areas. A thorough cleaning plan isn’t just about appearances; it’s about protecting the health and well-being of students, teachers, and staff all year long.

At Kennedy Commercial Cleaners, we understand the unique cleaning needs of educational facilities. To help schools and daycares stay ahead, we’ve put together a back-to-school cleaning checklist designed to keep every space safe, healthy, and ready for learning.

Classroom Deep Cleaning

Classrooms are the heart of any school or daycare, but they’re also hotspots for germs. Before the school year begins, desks, chairs, whiteboards, and shelves should all be disinfected. High-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and shared supplies require daily attention. Carpets and rugs should also be professionally cleaned to remove allergens and dirt that build up over the summer.

Restroom Sanitation

Restrooms are one of the most important areas to maintain, both for health and for creating a positive impression. Regular disinfecting of toilets, sinks, faucets, and partitions prevents the spread of harmful bacteria. Stocking hand soap, paper towels, and sanitizers consistently ensures students and staff can maintain proper hygiene throughout the day.

Hallways and Common Areas

These high-traffic zones can easily become overlooked. Floors should be swept and mopped daily, with periodic deep cleaning to remove scuffs and stains. Locker handles, drinking fountains, and railings should be disinfected frequently. For daycares, play areas and shared toys need special attention, as young children are especially vulnerable to germs.

Cafeteria and Food Prep Spaces

Cleanliness in cafeterias and food service areas is non-negotiable. Counters, tables, and food prep surfaces should be sanitized multiple times a day, while floors require daily cleaning. Equipment like refrigerators and microwaves should also be checked regularly to maintain safe food handling standards.

Regular Disinfecting Protocols

With illnesses circulating during the school year, daily disinfecting routines are critical. Professional cleaning services can provide electrostatic spraying or hospital-grade disinfectants to cover large areas efficiently. This ensures a deeper, longer-lasting clean than standard wipe-downs.

Ongoing Maintenance All Year Long

Back-to-school cleaning shouldn’t stop after the first week of classes. A consistent schedule of cleaning and disinfecting is the best defense against illness outbreaks. Partnering with a commercial cleaning company ensures that your facility maintains the highest standards of cleanliness all year long, without adding extra pressure to your staff.

Protect Your Students and Staff with Kennedy Commercial Cleaners

At Kennedy Commercial Cleaners, we specialize in cleaning services for schools and daycares across New Jersey. Our team uses safe, effective methods to eliminate germs, improve air quality, and create a healthy learning environment. From back-to-school deep cleaning to ongoing maintenance, we’re here to help keep your classrooms, hallways, and common areas spotless and safe.

Contact us today to schedule your back-to-school cleaning service and give your students and staff the clean, healthy environment they deserve all year long.