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

Download a printable poster (.pdf)