Safe Cleaning Products in Schools: What to Avoid and Why

Cleaning a school isn’t just about sparkling floors and tidy classrooms. The products you use can affect children, staff, and visitors. Choosing the wrong chemical can trigger allergic reactions, respiratory problems, or even long-term health risks.

Even everyday products can be harmful in a school environment. Facilities managers need to know what to avoid and how to ensure cleaning is both effective and safe.

Step-by-Step Approach to Safer School Cleaning

1. Audit your current products
Check every cleaner, disinfectant, and spray in storage. Note the ingredients and safety labels. Anything with strong acids, ammonia, or bleach should be flagged for review.

2. Switch to low-toxicity alternatives
Look for products marked “low VOC,” “non-toxic,” or “fragrance-free.” These reduce irritation for children and staff while still killing germs effectively.

3. Read the labels carefully
Even “green” products can have irritants. Ensure instructions are followed exactly, including dilution rates. Overuse can be as dangerous as using harsh chemicals.

4. Train your cleaning staff
Staff should know which products are safe, how to handle them, and what to do in case of spills or exposure. Proper PPE—gloves, aprons, and sometimes masks—is essential.

5. Keep storage secure and organised
All chemicals should be locked away and out of reach of children. Group products by type, and store incompatible items separately.

6. Implement a cleaning schedule
High-touch areas need frequent attention, but don’t overuse chemicals. Rotating safe products and cleaning methods can prevent overexposure.

7. Monitor and review regularly
Check for complaints of irritation, unusual smells, or cleaning inefficiencies. Replace or adjust products as needed.

Safe Cleaning Checklist for Schools

  • Identify and label all cleaning products.

  • Remove or replace high-toxicity chemicals (ammonia, bleach, phenols).

  • Ensure all products have clear instructions and SDS sheets.

  • Train staff on safe handling and PPE use.

  • Store chemicals in a locked, ventilated area.

  • Schedule cleaning to minimise exposure during school hours.

  • Keep a log of product use and staff feedback.

Common Mistakes

  • Using bleach or ammonia near children or food areas.

  • Mixing chemicals, which can create dangerous fumes.

  • Ignoring dilution instructions, making products unnecessarily strong.

  • Assuming “natural” equals safe; some essential oils can irritate.

  • Failing to train staff on correct handling and PPE.

Questions to Ask Your Cleaning Provider

  1. Which products do you use in classrooms, play areas, and staff rooms?

  2. Are any of your products harmful to children or staff with allergies?

  3. How do you handle chemical spills or accidental exposure?

  4. Do your staff receive training on safe product use?

  5. Can you provide SDS sheets for every product used?

  6. How do you adjust your cleaning routine to reduce exposure risks?

Cleaning doesn’t have to mean compromise. Choosing safe products protects students and staff while maintaining hygiene standards. If you want a quote or a cleaner-ready scope, contact LZH Cleaning Group.

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