How to Clean Furniture at School?

Furniture is consumable, especially school furniture. Desks, chairs, podiums, and lockers in schools are frequently used, making them prone to building up dust and stains.

Learn “how to clean furniture properly” is necessary, as it supports hygiene and helps extend the life of the furniture. Without regular cleaning, dirt and spills can cause permanent stains, unpleasant odors, and eventually weaken the furniture.

Today’s blog provides comprehensive instructions on how to clean furniture efficiently, while also providing maintenance tips and the best school furniture to choose.

What to Pay Attention to Before Cleaning School Furniture?

Although regular cleaning helps extend the lifespan of school furniture, improper cleaning can easily damage it instead. Here are precautions before knowing “how to clean furniture”:

1. Avoid Using Rough Tools

Rough tools such as steel wool pads and harsh brushes can scratch and cause paint surface wear if you force them on the furniture. Instead of these, using soft microfiber cloths or gentle sponges can effectively remove stains without causing harm.

2. Control the Amount of Cleaning Agent Used

Using too much furniture cleaner can leave behind residues. They may seep into the gaps of the furniture, causing wood to swell, metal to rust, or plastic to age.

It’s best to first spray the cleaner onto a cloth and then wipe the stained area. For old stains, clean with small amounts multiple times.

3. Wipe Dry Promptly

Leaving furniture wet can lead to water stains, warping, or mold growth. After cleaning the furniture, it is recommended to dry surfaces thoroughly with a clean and dry cloth.

How to Clean Furniture at School?

Different types of stains need specific cleaning methods. Here is how to clean old furniture in schools properly:

1. Dust and Loose Dirt

Regular dusting prevents dirt buildup. Firstly, use a microfiber cloth or a duster to remove dust without spreading it around. Then wipe the surfaces with a slightly damp soft cloth. For tight spaces, a vacuum with a brush attachment can be helpful.

2. Greasy Stains

Finding grease and crayon marks is common on school furniture. Mix a small amount of dish soap with warm water, gently scrub the stain, and wipe it clean.

For lighter crayon marks, they can be gently wiped away with an eraser or a baking soda solution. For larger crayon wax, let it harden first, then scrape it off carefully before wiping.

3. Water-Based Pen and Ink Stains

Rubbing alcohol or diluted vinegar applied with a cotton pad can break down water-based pen and ink stains. Avoid soaking the area and use just enough solution to treat the stain. Do not forget to dry the spot thoroughly afterward.

4. Adhesive Residues

Peeling off stickers often leaves sticky residue behind. This is very common in primary and middle schools. For stickers, first use a hairdryer to soften the adhesive residue, then peel it off slowly. Wipe away any remaining glue marks with alcohol. If there is significant glue residue, a dedicated adhesive remover can be used.

5. Mold Stains

Furniture stored in damp conditions or classrooms with poor ventilation can develop mold spots. How to clean table mold? Use the diluted bleach solution (one part bleach to ten parts water) or white vinegar for non-porous surfaces. Scrub lightly and rinse with clean water after washing furniture with the cleaning solution. Proper drying and improved ventilation help prevent recurrence.

6. Scratches

Minor scratches on wooden or laminated surfaces can often be concealed using furniture polish or color-matching markers. For deeper gouges, furniture repair wax or touch-up kits may be necessary.

Tips for Maintaining School Furniture

To avoid expensive replacement costs, regular maintenance is crucial to prevent early wear and tear. Here are some practical tips:

• Establish a Regular Cleaning Schedule:Develop a weekly and semester cleaning schedule. High-touch surfaces like desktops and chairs should receive more frequent attention.
• Inspect for Damage Frequently:Loose screws, cracked surfaces, or wobbly legs can worsen over time if not addressed. These minor issues need to be repaired promptly.
• Keep Furniture Dry:After cleaning or during humid conditions, ensure that furniture is thoroughly dried. Prolonged moisture exposure can damage wood finishes and create ideal conditions for mold growth.
• Store Properly During Breaks:If furniture is moved or stored during school holidays, keep it in a dry and enclosed area. Avoid stacking items in ways that could cause bending or surface damage.
• Encourage Student Responsibility:Teach students to care for the school furniture. Simple habits like cleaning up spills, not sitting on desks, or avoiding stickers can significantly reduce maintenance needs.

If You Need to Replace School Furniture

Daily use in school environments exposes furniture to stains, scratches, and wear. If the desks and chairs are too severely damaged, repairs may not be cost-effective. It’s better to reinvest in high-quality new furniture!

EVERPRETTY Furniture offers durable, stain-resistant furniture products designed specifically for educational settings, including customizable desks, chairs, lockers, and more, all built to handle heavy use and resist common classroom stains like ink, food spills, and adhesives. Their surfaces are easy to clean, helping schools maintain hygiene with less effort.

With about 31 years of experience, clients in 86+ countries, and international standards compliance, we’re a trusted partner for educational institutions looking to invest in long-lasting, low-maintenance, and affordable school furniture.

Wrapping-Up

Keeping school furniture clean and well-maintained is essential for a safe, welcoming learning environment. With the right cleaning methods and ongoing care, schools can extend the life of their furniture and reduce replacement costs.

EVERPRETTY Furniture brings highly durable, stain-resistant new furniture that is built to withstand classroom use. Contact us now for a specific solution!