10 High-Touch Surfaces in Schools & How to Clean Them
School is a place where many students, teachers, staff and parents come and go every day, all of whom are constantly touching different surfaces. These surfaces, often referred to as high-touch surfaces, are desks, door knobs, handrails, light switches and others.
Germs, bacteria and viruses quickly accumulate on these surfaces and are transmitted from person to person. According to Public Health England, the main reason for the absence of about 40% of students in schools in the UK is diseases transmitted through contact. Therefore, regular cleaning and sanitation of these surfaces is essential.
Using the right disinfecting methods and choosing the right cleaning chemicals both preserve health and prevent damage to the surface.
In this article, we examine the 10 high-touch points in schools and how to clean & sanitise them effectively.
#1 Door Handles & Push Plates
Door handles and push plates are touched almost every day. From classroom doors to restrooms, these surfaces are the first places germs settle. To clean them, use a microfiber cloth and an alcohol-based disinfectant spray. If the surface is metal, it’s best to use a chlorine-free solution to prevent rust.
Daily cleaning, especially in the morning and during recess, is the best time to clean. Professional schools usually have a schedule where janitors check these areas every 3 hours.
#2 Desks & Tabletops
Student desks are also a major source of germs, as they come into direct contact with hands, notebooks, water bottles and food. Antibacterial solutions suitable for laminated wood surfaces should be used for cleaning. It is best to clean these desks daily, after each class and before the next one, especially in cold seasons, when the risk of disease outbreaks is higher.
#3 Computer Keyboards & Mice
In modern schools in the UK, computer rooms are one of the busiest spaces. Students often use a keyboard or mouse, which causes grease and germs to accumulate on the buttons.
Before cleaning, the device should be turned off, then gently wipe the surface of the keys with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or an electronics cleaning spray. Do not spray the solution directly onto the device, as this may damage the circuitry.
#4 Light Switches & Control Panels
Light switches are one of the most inconspicuous but high-touch surfaces. Teachers and students touch them many times a day. It is best to use a 70% isopropyl alcohol solution and a soft cloth to clean these areas.
Never spray directly onto the switch, as this causes electrical shock or damage. Instead, spray onto a cloth and gently wipe the surface. This should be with every cleaning session, often once or twice per day.
#5 Washroom Taps & Flush Handles
In washrooms, the highest concentration of germs is on the faucets and toilet flush handles. These should be cleaned with a strong disinfectant solution or fragrance-free sanitation supplies and should be repeated at least three times a day.
If possible, it is best to replace taps and toilet flush systems with touchless models to reduce physical contact. Also, wearing gloves and proper ventilation of the space when cleaning are essential.
#6 Cafeteria Tables & Chairs
The school cafeteria is a place where students eat and drink at tables multiple times per day. Food crumbs, spilt drinks and grease create a favourable environment for bacteria to grow.
Food-grade sanitation chemicals should be used for these surfaces. These chemicals are both antibacterial and safe for indirect contact with food. After each meal, tables and chairs should be cleaned and dried with antibacterial wipes.
#7 Gym Equipment & Locker Handles
In gyms, excessive contact and sweating promote rapid growth of germs. Gym equipment, mats and locker handles should be cleaned after each workout. The best method is to use an alcohol-based disinfectant spray and a microfibre cloth.
Good ventilation, natural light, and disinfecting the floor after each practice session go a long way toward keeping students healthy. Professional schools usually have separate sports cleaning guidelines.
#8 Shared Equipment
Teaching equipment and shared stationery like scissors, markers and paintbrushes are a major source of germs, especially in elementary schools. It’s best to soak these tools in a mild disinfectant solution after each group activity and dry them afterwards.
Also, provide each student with a personal kit of art supplies to reduce sharing. In art schools or workshops where shared use is unavoidable, daily disinfection is essential.
#9 Stair Railings & Bannisters
Stair railings are the most frequently touched areas during student arrival and departure times. They should be wiped down with a non-corrosive disinfectant several times a day.
In multi-floor school buildings, this is best done at the end of every day. Be sure to wear gloves when cleaning, and the surface should not be slippery after drying. Using eco-friendly materials such as white vinegar for everyday cleaning is safe for sensitive environments like schools and nurseries.
#10 Whiteboards & Markers
Whiteboards and markers are used frequently throughout the day. If they are not cleaned, in addition to contamination, dried ink will shorten the life of the board.
To clean, first clean the board with the eraser, then use a whiteboard cleaning spray. Clean it once a week with a damp cloth to keep the surface shiny and smooth. If possible, provide personal markers for each teacher.
The Importance of School Cleaning Services
Professional school cleaning services play an important role in maintaining the school premises. Expert school cleaners are trained to properly disinfect all sensitive areas using standard materials, professional equipment and tailored cleaning checklists.
In the UK, many schools have annual contracts with cleaning companies to carry out a daily cleaning plus additional deep cleaning and spring cleaning work. Deep cleaning services are commonly used during term breaks, school closures and holidays, which include deep cleaning of floors, walls, ceilings and ventilation systems.
The aim of these services is not just to make things look better, but to prevent the spread of disease and increase the productivity of the learning environment.
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Conclusion
School cleaning is one of the most important factors in maintaining the health of students and staff. Every surface, from doorknobs to dining tables, plays a role in the transmission of germs. Adhering to the principles of daily disinfection, using standard sanitation chemicals and working with trusted school cleaning services is the foundation of a safe environment.
Periodic deep cleaning services during the holidays also help to remove hidden contaminants and keep the learning environment fresh and healthy. Schools in the UK that meet these standards not only have cleaner environments but are also more successful in reducing absences due to illness. Ultimately, a clean school means paying attention to physical and mental health, an environment where learning is easier, energy is higher, and smiles are more genuine.
