Green Cleaning
Protect health without harming the school environment
Purchase green products and equipment
- The least toxic or green chemicals for the job
- Microfiber cloths and mops to pick up dust and dirt
- HEPA vacuum cleaners
- Unscented products...clean does not have an odor!
- Environmentally preferable paper and recycled/compostable trash can liners
Adopt green cleaning procedures
- Establish a list of prohibited chemicals
- Provide classroom teachers with one approved all-purpose cleaner
- Use less product by spraying the cloth rather than the surface to be cleaned
- Use sanitizers & disinfectants only in frequent touch zones (door handles, keyboards etc.)
- Use walk-off mats at each entrance to keep the area clean
- Discourage air fresheners
Know what green really is
- Look for these words on a product label: an ingredient list, non-toxic, biodegradable, phospate free, contains no dyes or bleach, recyclable containers
- Get help online from 3rd party green certifiers: ExoLogo, Green Seal, or EPA's Design for the Environment.
Keep school rooms organized and clean
- Have a regular clean up time each week in the classroom
- Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water
Created by Montana State University Extension Housing and Environmental Health Program
Contact Myla Kelly at 406-994-6948 or myla.kelly@montana.edu