How to Clean Elementary School Desks

Clean elementary school desks on a regular basis, especially considering how many germs young students bring into the classroom with them. Consistent cleaning schedules can help minimize exposure to bacteria that causes colds, flus and other illnesses. Additionally, elementary desks are often covered in pen marks, pencil smudges and permanent marker drawings. Do not get overly distressed if these markings do not come out from the desk. While they may have a less-than-desirable appearance, it is most important to ensure that the desks are sanitary.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic bucket
• Water
• Ammonia
• Rubbing alcohol
• Face mask
• Rubber gloves
• Sponge
• Dry cloths

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Instructions

• 1

  Clear all of the contents from on top , within and beneath the desk. Throw away garbage and scrape off any gum, tape, paste, paint or glue that remains. Set the contents aside to a safe part of the classroom where they will not come into contact with the cleaning materials.

• 2

  Use the plastic bucket for mixing water, rubbing alcohol and ammonia. Measure out the portions so that you have one cup of water, one cup of rubbing alcohol and one tablespoon of ammonia. Make sure to protect your hands with rubber gloves while mixing the agents together. Consider wearing a face mask to avoid inhaling the fumes in areas that are not well ventilated.

• 3

  Bring the bucket and the rest of your supplies next to the desk to be cleaned. Dip the sponge into the solution and squeeze out excess liquid to avoid drips and spills. Apply the sponge to the desktop and proceed to scrub the surface. Work your way down the desk to the legs, as well as any shelves and compartments that are attached.

• 4

  Wring the sponge out into the solution as often as you need. Mix up more liquid if you start to run low on the solution.

• 5

  Use the dry cloth for drying and shining the desk once you are finished washing it with the ammonia solution. Wait until the desks are dry before you put all of the contents back into them.