Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Green Cleaning?

A: Green Cleaning simply means cleaning to protect health without harming the environment. A Green Cleaning program goes beyond chemical and equipment choices. It includes policies, procedures, training and shared responsibility efforts that minimize the impact of cleaning materials on the health of building occupants and protect the environment as a whole.

Q: Does Green Cleaning really make a difference in schools?

A: How schools are cleaned and the products that are used can significantly impact the health and performance of students, administrators, and cleaning staff. Choices in cleaning products, equipment and procedures also dramatically impact the lifespan of building materials and furnishings while preserving the environment.

Q: Can I adopt Green Cleaning and still meet public health and infection-control standards?

A: This is a common concern and one which can be addressed by striking a balance between germ control, which is important in the school environment, and the environmental impact of disinfectant use, which kills all microbes – even helpful ones. Certain “touch points” (such as doorknobs, nurses’ offices and certain food service areas) require the use of disinfectants; however, for most other situations, routine cleaning is sufficient. See Green Cleaning and Infection Control to learn more on how a green cleaning program can reduce the spread of disease in your school or Green Cleaning Procedures to learn more on when, how and what type of disinfectants to use in a Green Cleaning program.

Q: What does Green Cleaning cost?

A: Developing and implementing a Green Cleaning Program does not have to be expensive or overwhelming. There are hundreds of manufacturers who offer “certified” green cleaning chemicals that work well and are cost-competitive compared to traditional products. In addition, schools have reported better worker safety and student health after implementing a green cleaning program.

Q: What kind of time and training is required?

A: The amount and type of training will depend on your school and staff’s needs. There are many sources for training, including vendors and consultants who specialize in Green Cleaning. It is important to stress that training is not a criticism of previous practices, but an effort to find better, more healthful ways to clean that benefit everyone, including custodial staff.

Q: Do I need more staff or space?

A: It takes no additional staff to implement a green cleaning program. Green Cleaning may be able to improve the productivity of current staff, giving them more time to devote to other necessary maintenance tasks. In terms of space, all you need is a file cabinet to keep documents and a place for interested administrators, staff and parents to meet periodically – a table in the staff lounge can work very well.

Q: Who needs to be involved?

A: Green Cleaning programs are most successful when you have the input and commitment of many school stakeholders, including administrators, teachers, students, parents, facility operators, custodial staff, the school nurse, school board representative, contract services providers and union representatives as appropriate. Communication is critical throughout the process so everyone understands how they contribute to the program’s success.

Q: How will I know if it’s working?