when we think about what makes a school great, we often focus on passionate teachers, innovative curriculums, and high-achieving students. But here’s the thing: none of that thrives in a dirty or cluttered environment.
Cleanliness is the unsung hero of a successful educational setting, yet it rarely gets the attention it deserves. To shed light on its importance, here are some surprising facts about school cleanliness—and why it should be a top priority.
Fact #1: Germs Are Everywhere
Did you know that the average school desk harbours 400 times more bacteria than a toilet seat? It’s not just desks, either: computer keyboards, doorknobs, and shared equipment are hotspots for germs.
Without regular cleaning and disinfection, these germs can spread illnesses, leading to absences among both students and staff. In fact, schools are among the top environments for the spread of viruses like the flu.
Fact #2: Clean Schools Improve Attendance
Illness-related absences are a major problem for schools, with the CDC estimating that the flu alone causes 38 million missed school days annually. Professional cleaning services can help by reducing the spread of germs, improving attendance, and keeping students in the classroom where they belong.
Fact #3: Indoor Air Quality Matters
Poor indoor air quality isn’t just a problem for offices and factories—it’s a growing concern in schools too. Dust, mould, and other allergens can accumulate in poorly cleaned environments, triggering asthma and allergy symptoms. Studies show that improved air quality can enhance student performance by as much as 15%.
Regular vacuuming, dusting, and air vent cleaning are essential to maintaining a healthy school environment.
Fact #4: Cleanliness Impacts Learning
Cluttered classrooms and dirty environments can create distractions for students, making it harder for them to focus. According to a study by Princeton University, physical clutter competes for attention, reducing cognitive performance. A clean, organised classroom, on the other hand, promotes focus and productivity.
Fact #5: Parents Notice Cleanliness
Parents often form their first impression of a school based on its cleanliness. In fact, cleanliness ranks as a top factorfor parents deciding where to send their children.
A clean school signals that the administration cares about its students’ health, safety, and well-being, making cleanliness an essential part of a school’s reputation.
Fact #6: Professional Cleaning Can Save Money
Neglecting cleanliness can lead to long-term damage to school facilities. For example, uncleaned carpets wear out faster, dirty windows need more frequent replacement, and unchecked mould growth can lead to costly repairs.
Investing in professional cleaning services is a cost-effective way to maintain the value of school property while reducing overall maintenance expenses.
Fact #7: High-Touch Areas Need Extra Attention
Some of the dirtiest places in a school are the ones we interact with the most:
- Water fountains: Studies have found more bacteria on water fountains than on toilets.
- Door handles: Every student touches them, making them prime spots for germ transmission.
- Shared equipment: Items like sports gear, art supplies, and musical instruments are rarely cleaned but heavily used.
Professional cleaners focus on these high-touch areas to reduce the risk of germ spread.
Fact #8: Green Cleaning Is on the Rise
With sustainability becoming a priority, more schools are adopting eco-friendly cleaning practices. Using non-toxic, biodegradable cleaning products ensures a healthier environment for students and reduces the school’s environmental footprint.
MSS Solutions is proud to offer green cleaning options that align with these values.
Fact #9: Clean Restrooms Mean Better Behaviour
It might sound strange, but dirty restrooms can negatively impact student behaviour. According to research, unclean restrooms are more likely to lead to vandalism and neglect by students. On the other hand, well-maintained facilities encourage respect and proper use.
The Role of MSS Solutions in Education Cleaning
At MSS Solutions, we understand the unique challenges of maintaining cleanliness in educational environments. Our services go beyond basic tidying to ensure schools are safe, healthy, and inspiring places to learn.
We specialise in:
- Classroom cleaning and organisation.
- High-touch area sanitisation.
- Dust and allergen removal for improved air quality.
- Eco-friendly cleaning solutions for a sustainable future.
A Clean School Equals Brighter Futures
The facts don’t lie: cleanliness plays a pivotal role in student health, academic success, and overall school reputation. By investing in professional cleaning services, schools can create environments where both students and teachers can thrive.
Want to learn more about how MSS Solutions can support your school? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover the difference professional cleaning can make.