As a commercial cleaning company in San Francisco that works closely with schools, we often get asked one simple question:
“How often should we deep clean our school?”
It’s a great question because while janitorial work keeps things looking great and maintained, deep cleaning is what really keeps the staff and students healthy year-round.
Let’s get into it.
The Difference Between Daily Cleaning and Deep Cleaning
Daily cleaning takes care of, well, the daily visuals; think visible messes like wiping desks, emptying trash, mopping floors, cleaning the bathrooms. You get the gist. Whereas deep cleaning targets areas that accumulate germs and buildup over time, such as:
-Desks, chairs and lockers
-Cafeteria tables and kitchens
-Restroom fixtures and grout
-Air vents, baseboards, and corners
-Gym mats and equipment
Deep cleaning isn’t just about appearances, it’s about creating a safe, allergen-reduced learning environments where students and staff can thrive.
When Should Schools Be Deep Cleaned?
This can be discussed and personalized according to your facility needs, so be sure to communicate these needs with your commercial cleaning service. BUT, based on our years of experience, here is an idea of what we would recommend.
-Classrooms and Hallways : 2-3x/year
-Restrooms : Monthly or quarterly
-Cafeterias and Kitchens: Every school break
-Gymnasiums and Lockers: 2-3x/month
-Floors and Carpets: At least 2x/year
Usually deep cleanings are completed during school breaks or before the new semester starts since classrooms are empty and we can reach every corner.
Why Regular Deep Cleaning Makes a Difference?
Regular deep cleanings can make a difference in many areas. They can improve attendance due to less germs leading to less sick days, protect property, equipment and make HVAC systems last longer, enhance reputation by showing the care the facility has for students and staff, and support staff morale since staff has been shown to work better in a clean, fresh space.
We’ve seen schools transform when deep cleanings are performed, not just cleaner spaces but happier communities.
Ensuring Your Deep Cleaning Is Part of Your Current Janitorial Service Plan
At Celestial Cleaning, deep cleaning is an add on to your on-going janitorial plan, not a one time service. Why is that, you may ask: It’s because deep cleaning works best when it complements your regular cleaning schedule. It’s a part of a system that keeps your space clean throughout the year and not just freshened up temporarily. This ensures that every part of your facility has a scheduled cleaning plan and everything discussed gets the attention it needs.
Our year long plan when we partner with schools looks like:
-Daily janitorial service
-Periodic deep cleans during breaks
-Floor care and special projects
Partner With a Team That Understands Schools

Our team at Celestial Cleaning Service is trained in school-specific sanitation, eco-friendly product use, and confidentiality around student spaces.
We tailor each deep clean plan according to your school’s size, schedule and budget. If you’re planning your next school break, this is the perfect time to get ahead. If you’re already working with a janitorial team, make sure deep cleaning is part of your plan and if you’re looking for a reliable partner who can provide both, we’d love to help!
Contact Celestial Cleaning Service today to schedule a free walkthrough and customized cleaning quote for your Bay Area school.
