Tips for a Cleaner School

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​​Cleaner Schools Start Here
​We can help you reduce the spread of germs to create a healthier environment for students and staff.

27.8%

U.S. students were chronically absent the 2022–23 school year
meaning they missed 10% or more school days (about 18+ days).

31%

Ohio students were chronically absent the 2022–23 school year.

Reducing cross-contamination, when bacteria or viruses are transferred from one person or surface to another, is one way schools can help keep students healthy, present & ready to learn.

​Where Do Germs Hide?

A National Science Foundation (NSF) study tested bacterial samples from surfaces at two Michigan elementary schools to identify areas where germs may accumulate. While the findings show a snapshot of these specific schools, they highlight the importance of regularly cleaning and disinfecting or sanitizing high touch and often-overlooked surfaces.

Sample Location	(Colony Forming Units / in sq)
Water Fountain Spigot (classroom)	2,700,000 CFU/in sq
Water Fountain Spigot (cafeteria)	62,000 CFU/in sq
Plastic Reusable Cafeteria Tray	33,800 CFU/in sq
Faucet (cold water handle)	32,000 CFU/in sq
Faucet (hot water handle)	18,000 CFU/in sq
Cafeteria Plate	15,800 CFU/in sq
Keyboard (classroom)	3,300 CFU/in sq
Toilet Seat	3,200 CFU/in sq
Student’s Hand	1,200 CFU/in sq

Takeaway: Restrooms get routine attention, but other surfaces, like a water fountain spigot, can be easily missed. Establishing the right products, tools & procedures with your staff help ensure no key surface is overlooked.

​Common High Touch Surfaces

​High-touch surfaces can quickly become collection points for germs. Routine cleaning and targeted disinfection can help reduce cross-contamination of bacteria and viruses throughout your school.

• Door Handles
• Light Switches
• Push Buttons
• Keyboards & Technology
• Water Fountains
• Cafeteria Tables & Trays
• Restroom Fixtures
• Desks & Shared Surfaces
• Dispensers

Cleaning vs Disinfecting
Routine cleaning removes dirt, grime, and even some germs from surfaces while disinfecting kills germs on surfaces.

​Clean then Disinfect
Germs thrive in grime because dirt, grease, and soap scum provide shelter and food that protects bacteria and viruses from drying out or being reached by disinfectants. Target high touch areas by cleaning first then spraying with a broad spectrum disinfectant.

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ALCO Tip: Remember more chemical does not make it work better. Proper product selection, dilution, application, and contact time matter. Be sure to always follow directions found on the product label.

​Promote Proper Hand Hygiene Throughout Your School

ALCO Handwashing Signs

Wash with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially:
After:

• Using a restroom
• Sneezing or coughing
• Blowing your nose
• Cleaning 
• Contact with an ill person
• Touching public surfaces
• Handling garbage
• Handling money

Before & After:

• Eating
• Handling Food

When soap and water aren’t available, use hand sanitizer and wash your hands at the next opportunity.

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​Keep Your School Clean All Year Round

​From classrooms and cafeterias to restrooms and common areas, ALCO has the products, equipment, supplies, and local support to help keep your facility clean, safe, and ready for the school year.

JANITORIAL:

• Air & Surface Purification Technology
• All Purpose Cleaners
• Cleaning Supplies - Brooms, Brushes, Dusters Mop Buckets/Wringers, Sponges,  Rags, etc. 
• Closed Loop Dispensing System
• Degreasers  & Industrial
• Disinfectants & Disinfectant Wipes
• Electrostatic Sprayers
• Feminine Napkins & Dispensers
• Glass Cleaners & Equipment
• Hand Sanitizer & Dispensers
• Hand Soap & Dispensers
• Microfiber Cleaning Tools
• Paper Products & Dispensers
• PPE - Gloves, Masks etc.
• Restroom Cleaners
• Warner Scraper Tools
• Waste Receptacles & Liners
• Wet Mops & Dust Mops

FLOOR CARE:

• Cleaners, Degreasers, & Disinfectants
• Concrete Sealer & Finish
• Entrance & Walk Off Matting
• Floor Pads & Accessories
• Gym Floor Care & Finishes
• Products & Equipment
• Strippers, Sealers, Finishes, Restorers
• Vacuums, Scrubbers, Rotary Extractors, Autonomous etc.

CARPET CARE:

• Defoamers
• Deodorizers
• Extraction Detergents
• Neutralizers
• Spotters 

DIETARY:

• 3-Sink Products 
• Combi Oven
• Dishmachines​
• Dishmachine Chemicals

• Dishmachine Test Strips
• Oven & Fryer Cleaners
• Sanitizers
• Silverware Presoak

SPECIALTY:

• Absorbents
• Air Fresheners & Deodorizers
• Bloodborne Clean-Up Kits
• Ice Melter
• Insecticides
• LAUNDRY:
• Detergents: Commercial, Top Load, High Efficient
• Destainer
• New Closed Loop Line 
• Softeners
• Spotters

Backed by ALCO’s Uncompromising Service

• Dishmachine Repair & Service
• Equipment Repair 

• Gym Floor Resurfacing
• In-Service Training 

• On-Site Demonstrations
• Prompt Daily Deliveries