The importance of cleanliness in schools: How it impacts student health and performance | Shen Cleaning " "

 

 

Kids can be like petri dishes, especially young ones. So it’s no surprise that a school can get quite dirty. But a clean school is more than just a nice-looking space — it’s the basis of a safe, healthy, and productive learning environment. From classrooms to common areas, maintaining a high standard of cleanliness directly impacts student health, academic performance, and even their emotional well-being.

By the end of this article, you’ll understand the real-world benefits of maintaining clean educational facilities, why cleanliness matters, and the role professional cleaning services play in achieving happy, healthy, and clean spaces!

Why school cleanliness is important

Cleanliness in schools isn’t just about appearances. The condition of a school’s premises, both in common areas and classrooms, significantly impacts how students feel, behave, and learn. Research consistently shows that the cleanliness of a space affects our mood and cognition. And a tidy and organized environment supports better focus, reduced stress, and fewer sick days for students and staff. When schools prioritize hygiene, they reduce the spread of germs and create an environment where both the minds and bodies of young learners can thrive.

The importance of cleanliness becomes even more apparent during flu season or when illness rates increase. A proactive cleaning strategy protects student health while minimizing disruptions to the learning process. So while dust-free desks are great, a truly clean school that limits sick days and keeps everyone happy and healthy is even better.

The role of cleanliness in student health

Let’s face it: students touch everything. Desks, doorknobs, and shared learning tools like computers are all hotspots for germs. While older students may be a little more hygienic, simply the amount they touch their cell phone and then other objects can easily lead to the transmission of germs. Without a regular cleaning schedule, classrooms can quickly become breeding grounds for bacteria and viruses. Clean schools help maintain proper hygiene and reduce the spread of colds, flu, and other contagious conditions.

According to health studies, indoor air quality and surface cleanliness have been linked to better respiratory health and fewer allergy symptoms among children. When facilities are properly maintained with effective yet sustainable green cleaning products and techniques, the result is healthier surroundings and fewer absences.

Janitor cleaning school floors with mop and bucket to reduce germs and ensure a clean learning space

How cleanliness affects performance

A clean classroom supports good health and academic success. When students walk into a tidy, organized space, it can be a sign that their education matters, and it’s time to get down to work. This type of structured environment enhances focus and minimizes distractions. Clean classrooms allow students to feel at ease, improving motivation and engagement in school activities.

More and more research is pointing to the benefits of clean learning environments, particularly for younger children. For example, a paper published in the Journal of School Health found a correlation between well-maintained facilities and higher test scores. The connection between health and performance can’t be overlooked, and cleanliness is the foundation of health!

What makes a good school cleaning strategy?

Having clear objectives for a school cleaning program is key to its success. This typically involves targeting high-traffic areas, focusing on sanitation in restrooms, and regularly disinfecting shared learning tools. Professional cleaning services ensure that facilities meet health standards while supporting the overall educational mission.

Some of the main reasons to invest in regular school cleaning include:

  • Reducing illness-related absences
  • Improving classroom air quality
  • Creating a visually appealing environment
  • Supporting a respectful and structured school culture

Is green cleaning effective in schools?

Sustainability is also part of the equation. Green cleaning practices use environmentally friendly products that can reduce exposure to harsh chemicals. This is especially important for children with allergies or asthma as potent chemicals can negatively affect air quality. Using safe, non-toxic products protects students’ respiratory (and overall) health without compromising cleanliness.

At Shen Cleaning, we believe the importance of a safe school extends to the planet, too. That’s why we incorporate green practices that protect both people and the environment.

How to get an A+ in Cleanliness

Whether you’re looking at test results, attendance numbers, or student morale, the role of cleanliness in student health and happiness, as well as school success, is undeniable. A well-maintained school premises supports better performance, fewer illnesses, and a greater sense of pride from both students and staff.

Cleaning at school isn’t just about wiping surfaces. It’s about  more than that, such as creating a culture that values well-being and portrays excellence. When students feel safe and supported in their surroundings, they show up ready to learn, and ultimately, ready to succeed.

If you’re ready to give your school a cleaner and healthier future, let Shen Cleaning design a custom cleaning plan that fits your school’s needs and goals. Contact us today for a consultation.

We are a cleaning company that has been operating in the european market for 19 years. We provide a wide range of cleaning services for commercial real estate and guarantee exceptional results