School hygiene plays an important role in creating a safe and healthy environment for students, staff, and teachers. Close contact among learners with shared objects and often-overlooked cleaning routines make schools a breeding ground for germs and infections.
Prioritising cleanliness and implementing effective school hygiene practices is essential to protecting everyone’s health.

Why School Hygiene Matters
In schools, infections spread rapidly because of shared surfaces, frequent close interactions, and inadequate cleaning and disinfection. Without a proper school hygiene program that focuses on both cleaning and disinfecting, students and staff are at risk of exposure to harmful germs each time they touch contaminated surfaces.
Ensuring that every surface is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected can significantly reduce the spread of illnesses in learning environments.
An Essential Step for School Hygiene
Research has shown that school desks can harbour 400 times more bacteria than toilet seats. Desks, keyboards, and door handles are some of the most contaminated surfaces in educational environments.
Schools should establish strict procedures for routine cleaning and disinfecting. High-touch surfaces like desks, doorknobs, keyboards, and toys should be cleaned and sanitized daily. Areas like bathrooms and food service areas, where germs can quickly spread, need special attention. Using appropriate cleaning products and following recommended guidelines will help maintain a hygienic environment.

Promoting Hand Hygiene in Schools
Hygiene and handwashing go hand in hand and are fundamental aspects of school hygiene. Teaching students the importance of regular hand washing can significantly reduce the spread of respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases. Schools should establish routines for handwashing throughout the day, particularly before meals, after using the restroom, and after playing outside. Easy access to soap, water, and paper towels encourages students to maintain good hand hygiene.
During periods when absenteeism due to illness increases, schools should reinforce handwashing practices and consider increasing the frequency of hand hygiene breaks. When soap and water are not available, hand sanitisers with at least 60% alcohol can be used as an alternative, with appropriate supervision for younger children.
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The Role of Professional Cleaners
Professional cleaners play a vital role in maintaining school hygiene. Their expertise ensures that even the most challenging areas are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, reducing the risk of infection. Regular deep cleaning by professionals helps maintain a high hygiene standard, which is essential in a school environment.
In addition to cleaning surfaces, schools should also regularly check and maintain HVAC or air conditioning systems to ensure proper filtration and air quality. Clean air reduces airborne particles, creating a healthier environment for students and staff.
Invest in a Healthy Learning Environment
School hygiene is the cornerstone of a healthy learning environment. By implementing and maintaining rigorous cleaning, sanitising, and disinfecting protocols, schools can significantly reduce the spread of germs and create a safer space for everyone. Prioritising hygiene protects the health of students and staff and fosters a more productive and positive educational experience.