Key Considerations When Sanitizing Your Classroom Technology

Key Considerations When Sanitizing Your Classroom Technology

A critical element in any effort to minimize the spread of germs is cleaning and disinfecting shared items regularly. In schools, electronics are some of the most shared objects. Here are some key considerations and recommendations for sanitizing your electronic devices. 

First, be aware of the difference between “cleaning” and “disinfecting.” According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):  

 – “Cleaning does not kill germs, but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection.”

 – Disinfecting “does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning, it can further lower the risk of spreading infection.

If you’re using screen cleaners or any other cleaning wipes, the CDC states it needs an alcohol solution of at least 70% to be considered disinfecting.  

Cleaning Lightspeed microphones and Activate pods 
As you’re cleaning and disinfecting your classroom technology, be sure to include the shared components of your Lightspeed systems, including microphones and Activate pods.

 – Turn off and unplug components before cleaning.

 – Wring out any disinfecting wipe, so it’s damp instead of saturated.

 – Do not pour or spray liquid directly on the devices or microphones.

 – Do not use sanitizer gel on the devices as it may cause water damage.

 – You can use rubbing alcohol or a bleach solution on a cloth if you don’t have wipes.

 – The CDC’s recommend bleach solution is five tablespoons (1/3rd cup) of bleach per gallon of water or four teaspoons of bleach per quart of water. NOTE: Keep in mind bleach will break down plastic over time if used too frequently. 

Our service team is available if you have any questions about cleaning or caring for your Lightspeed components. You can contact us at 1-800-732-8999 or on our website.  

Cleaning other shared devices 

Other devices such as computers, keyboards, mouses, tablets, headphones, or remote/game controllers should also be a key focus in cleaning and disinfecting efforts. The best place to start is to check the manufacturer’s recommendations. Here are guidelines for Apple iPads and HP computers and Chromebooks. Once you’ve reviewed these recommendations, consider the above suggested cleaning techniques and the following advice from the CDC and the New York Time’s The Wirecutter on electronics.  

 – Avoid using tissues or paper towels on screens as they may leave scratches. 

 – If your devices have protective covers, you may want to remove them and clean underneath the cases. Let the devices air dry before replacing the covers. 

 – Don’t forget to clean your phone (mobile and desk) as well. If you have a case, remove it and clean your phone underneath and it let it dry before replacing the cover. 

Regularly cleaning and sanitizing your Lightspeed system and components and other classroom technology throughout the year will help support the good health of your students, teachers, and all members of your school community.