Childcare Cleaning Essentials: Protecting Young Learners from Germs

Every parent wants their child to thrive in a safe and healthy environment, especially in childcare centers where young learners explore, play, and interact daily. However, with so many little hands touching shared surfaces, toys, and equipment, keeping germs at bay can feel like an uphill battle. A simple cough or sneeze can quickly lead to illnesses spreading among children and staff.

For childcare providers, maintaining a clean and hygienic space is about protecting young learners from germs that could impact their health and well-being. But where should you start? How do you ensure your cleaning practices are thorough enough to make a real difference? This guide focuses on essential strategies to safeguard children in your care, making hygiene manageable and effective for your facility.

Why Childcare Cleaning Essentials Matter

Children learn about the world around them by touching, playing, and interacting with their environment. These behaviours are crucial for their cognitive and social development, but they also expose them to germs. In childcare settings, where children share toys, books, and surfaces, the chances of spreading bacteria and viruses increase significantly.

Young children, particularly those under five, are more vulnerable to illnesses because their immune systems are still developing. This makes them more susceptible to common infections like colds, flu, and stomach bugs, which can spread quickly in group settings. Without proper cleaning practices, these illnesses can impact not only the children but also the staff and families connected to the facility.

Implementing effective cleaning strategies is essential to reduce the risk of infections. Regular cleaning and disinfecting of shared spaces, toys, and high-touch surfaces create an environment where children can learn, play, and grow safely. It also provides peace of mind to parents and ensures childcare facilities meet health and safety standards.

Key Areas to Focus on for Childcare Cleaning

In childcare settings, specific areas require extra attention to maintain hygiene and protect young learners from germs. High-touch surfaces, toys, and restrooms are particularly prone to contamination and need regular, thorough cleaning. Below are hyperspecific steps and schedules to ensure these areas remain clean and safe.

1. High-Touch Surfaces

High-touch surfaces in childcare facilities are constantly used by children and staff, making them a primary source of germ transmission. These include tables, chairs, door handles, light switches, and play equipment.

Steps for Cleaning High-Touch Surfaces

Wipe with a Damp Cloth

Use a microfiber cloth to remove visible dirt, crumbs, and dust from the surface.
Example: Wipe tables after snack time or group activities to remove sticky residue.

Disinfect Thoroughly

Apply a childcare-safe disinfectant spray or solution.
Let the disinfectant sit for the recommended dwell time (usually 3–5 minutes) to effectively kill bacteria and viruses.

Repeat Regularly

Clean these surfaces multiple times throughout the day.
Example: After meals, craft sessions, and other group activities, prioritise cleaning tables and chairs.

Why It’s Important

High-touch areas are shared frequently, and germs can easily spread from one child to another through these surfaces. Regular cleaning minimises this risk, reducing illnesses among children and staff.

2. Toys and Play Equipment

Toys and play equipment are used by multiple children, often touched, dropped, and even mouthed, making them significant carriers of germs.

Steps for Cleaning Toys

Hard Toys

Wash with warm soapy water to remove visible dirt and grime.
Disinfect using a childcare-safe solution. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue.
Example: Blocks, plastic figurines, and puzzle pieces are hard toys that should be cleaned daily.

Soft Toys

Launder washable toys in hot water. Use a gentle, fragrance-free detergent to prevent skin irritation.
For non-washable toys, spot clean with a damp cloth and use a fabric-safe disinfectant spray. Allow them to air dry completely before returning them to play areas.

Electronic Toys

Wipe down surfaces with alcohol-based disinfectant wipes. Avoid excess moisture to protect internal components.
Example: Clean remote-controlled cars or talking toys by wiping buttons and outer casings.

Cleaning Schedule

Daily: Clean toys that are frequently used or shared during the day, such as blocks, plush toys, or art supplies.
After Illness: Disinfect toys immediately after use by a sick child to prevent the spread of germs.
Weekly: Rotate through larger play equipment, such as play kitchens or outdoor climbing sets, for deep cleaning.

Why It’s Important

Toys are shared among children, increasing the chance of germ transfer. Regular cleaning and disinfecting prevent the spread of illnesses like colds, flu, and stomach bugs.

3. Restrooms

Restrooms in childcare facilities see high usage and are exposed to germs regularly, making frequent cleaning essential to maintaining hygiene.

Restroom Cleaning Essentials

Toilets and Sinks

Scrub toilets with a disinfectant cleaner to remove stains, bacteria, and odours.
Clean sink basins, faucets, and knobs to remove soap scum and bacteria.
Example: Use a separate cleaning cloth or sponge for each part of the restroom to avoid cross-contamination.

Handles and Dispensers

Disinfect handles on toilet flushers, faucet knobs, and soap dispensers, as these are touched by every user.
Example: Use disposable disinfectant wipes for these areas to ensure thorough cleaning.

Floors

Mop restroom floors daily with a disinfectant solution to eliminate spills, dirt, and bacteria.
Pay attention to corners and edges where grime often builds up.

Hand Drying Areas

Replace paper towels frequently to ensure they’re available for proper hand drying.
Clean hand dryers with a damp cloth and disinfectant to remove dust and bacteria that may accumulate on vents.

Why It’s Important

Restrooms are hotspots for bacteria and viruses due to frequent use. A clean restroom reduces the spread of germs, encourages proper hygiene among children, and provides a healthier environment overall.

Strategies to Maintain Hygiene in Childcare Facilities

Maintaining hygiene in childcare facilities requires a consistent and structured approach. Children are naturally curious, and their interactions with each other and their surroundings can quickly spread germs. These strategies focus on practical and actionable steps to ensure a safe and clean environment for children and staff.

1. Hand Hygiene Practices

Teaching proper hand hygiene is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to reduce germ transmission. Children often touch their faces, toys, and shared surfaces, making handwashing a critical habit to instill.

Key Steps for Effective Hand Hygiene

Handwashing Stations

Install sinks at child-height to ensure accessibility for all children.
Stock each station with liquid soap and disposable paper towels.
Example: Use no-touch soap dispensers to minimise contact and improve hygiene.

Handwashing Routine

Teach children to wash their hands before meals, after using the restroom, and after playing outdoors or with shared toys.
Supervise young children to ensure proper technique, including scrubbing for at least 20 seconds.

Visual Reminders

Post illustrated handwashing guides near sinks. These should include simple, step-by-step images showing how to lather, scrub, rinse, and dry hands.
Example: Use bright colors and friendly characters to grab children’s attention and make the reminders engaging.

Why It’s Important

Regular handwashing reduces the spread of bacteria and viruses, creating a healthier environment for everyone in the childcare facility.

2. Cleaning and Disinfecting Schedule

A structured cleaning and disinfecting schedule ensures that every area of the facility is maintained consistently. This reduces the chances of germs spreading and keeps the environment safe for children and staff.

A Practical Cleaning Schedule

Daily Cleaning Tasks:

Tables and Chairs: Wipe and disinfect after every meal or activity.
High-Touch Surfaces: Clean door handles, light switches, and play equipment multiple times throughout the day.
Toys: Sanitise frequently used toys at the end of each day.
Floors: Sweep and mop all common areas, focusing on entryways and high-traffic zones.

Weekly Cleaning Tasks:

Carpets and Rugs: Vacuum and deep-clean to remove allergens and dirt.
Storage Areas: Clean cubbies, shelves, and bins; inspect for pests.
Play Equipment: Rotate less-used toys and sanitise large items like play kitchens or climbing frames.

Monthly Cleaning Tasks:

Soft Furnishings: Wash curtains, cushion covers, and plush toys.
Walls and Corners: Dust and clean baseboards, corners, and high surfaces.
HVAC Systems: Inspect and clean filters to maintain air quality.

This structured schedule ensures all areas of the facility are regularly cleaned and maintained, reducing the spread of germs and keeping the environment safe.

Why It’s Important

A consistent cleaning schedule ensures that no areas are overlooked and minimises the risk of illness from bacteria, viruses, and allergens.

3. Safe Use of Cleaning Products

Choosing and using the right cleaning products is essential to maintain hygiene without compromising the safety of children and staff. Improper use of harsh chemicals can cause skin irritation or respiratory issues, particularly in young children.

Tips for Safe Cleaning Product Use

Child-Safe Labels

Use cleaning products labeled as non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and safe for use in childcare environments.
Example: Opt for products with certification from recognised safety organisations like EPA Safer Choice or Green Seal.

Proper Dilution

Follow manufacturer instructions when diluting concentrated cleaning solutions to ensure effectiveness without overuse of chemicals.
Example: Use pre-measured dispensers or dilution charts to mix solutions accurately.

Storage

Store all cleaning supplies in locked cabinets or areas inaccessible to children.
Example: Label cabinets with clear signs to ensure staff can locate supplies quickly while keeping them secure.

Why It’s Important

Using safe and properly stored cleaning products reduces risks associated with chemical exposure and ensures the environment is cleaned effectively without harming children or staff.

4. Toy Cleaning Guidelines

Hard Toys:

Wash toys with warm, soapy water to remove visible dirt.
Disinfect using a childcare-safe cleaning solution.
Rinse thoroughly and allow toys to air dry before returning them to play areas.

Soft Toys:

Launder washable toys in hot water with a gentle, fragrance-free detergent.
For non-washable toys, spot clean with a damp cloth and apply a fabric-safe disinfectant spray.
Allow toys to dry completely before use.

Electronic Toys:

Wipe surfaces with alcohol-based disinfectant wipes, avoiding excess moisture.
Use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to clean small crevices like buttons or switches.
Ensure all parts are completely dry before use.

Cleaning Schedule for Toys:

Daily: Sanitise toys used frequently during the day.
After Illness: Disinfect toys immediately if used by a sick child.
Weekly: Rotate and sanitise less-used toys to ensure all items are cleaned regularly.

5. Focusing on High-Risk Areas

High-touch surfaces and restrooms are high-risk areas for germ transmission in childcare facilities, yet they are often overlooked in cleaning guides. These areas require frequent cleaning and targeted disinfection to minimise health risks.

Cleaning Guidelines for High-Risk Areas

High-Touch Surfaces:

Use a microfiber cloth to wipe away visible dirt and debris.
Apply a disinfectant and allow it to sit for the recommended dwell time.
Wipe dry to prevent streaks and maintain surface quality.
Repeat this process multiple times a day, especially after group activities or meal times.

Restrooms:

Toilets and Sinks: Scrub with a disinfectant cleaner daily, paying extra attention to handles and faucet knobs.
Soap Dispensers and Hand Dryers: Wipe down with disinfectant wipes to remove bacteria buildup.
Floors: Mop with a childcare-safe disinfectant to remove spills and bacteria.

Integration into Daily Schedules:

Clean restrooms during nap times or other low-traffic periods to avoid disrupting children’s routines.
Include restroom checks in morning and afternoon cleaning rounds.

By prioritising these high-risk areas, childcare providers can significantly reduce the spread of germs and maintain a healthier environment.

Conclusion: Protecting Young Learners with Professional Childcare Cleaning Services

Implementing effective childcare cleaning essentials ensures a hygienic environment where children can learn and grow safely. From cleaning high-touch surfaces to maintaining a structured disinfecting schedule, these practices reduce the risk of illness and create a healthier space for everyone.

Need professional help maintaining high cleaning standards? Perth Express Cleaning offers tailored childcare cleaning services that meet the specific needs of your facility. Contact us today to ensure a clean, safe, and germ-free environment for your young learners.

FAQs

1. How often should toys in childcare facilities be cleaned?

Toys should be cleaned daily, especially those frequently touched or mouthed. After an illness, toys used by a sick child should be disinfected immediately to prevent the spread of germs.

2. What cleaning products are safe to use in childcare centers?

Only use non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and childcare-safe cleaning products. Look for certifications like EPA Safer Choice to ensure they’re effective and safe for young children.

3. How can childcare staff ensure restrooms are always hygienic?

Restrooms should be cleaned multiple times daily, focusing on toilets, sinks, and handles. Mop the floors with disinfectant daily, and regularly replace soap and paper towels to maintain hygiene.

4. How can we prevent cross-contamination during cleaning?

Use color-coded cleaning supplies for different areas (e.g., red for restrooms, green for kitchens). Change gloves and cleaning tools between rooms to prevent the spread of germs.

5. What’s the best way to teach children proper hand hygiene?

Install child-height sinks, use no-touch soap dispensers, and post visual guides near sinks to teach children handwashing techniques. Supervise and encourage handwashing before meals and after playtime.