Although it may seem like a simple task, cleaning a blackboard with the wrong cleaner or method can ruin it. This guide is designed to teach you how to clean a school blackboard.
Although it may seem like a simple task, cleaning a blackboard with the wrong cleaner or method can ruin it. This guide is designed to teach you how to clean a school blackboard.
Introduction
Most classroom blackboards are subjected to daily use. Not only do blackboards see a daily buildup of chalk, but dust, dead skin cells and other residue will also accumulate on the board. After time, blackboards will get dingy and it becomes harder and harder for students to see what is written on them.
As you may know if you've used one, chemical cleaners may react with the stone and damage the blackboard beyond repair. Since blackboards are an expensive, yet vital piece of equipment for most teachers, you should clean your blackboard regularly and properly to keep it in good condition.
Step 1: Before You Begin
- Before you give your blackboard a thorough cleaning, remove as much chalk dust as you can from its surface. Using a new eraser or soft chamois, give the blackboard a thorough wipe. Then use a damp paper towel to clean the tray at the bottom of the blackboard to reduce the amount of dust in the area.
Step 2: How to Clean a Blackboard
Regardless of which of the cleaning options listed below you decide to use, the process for cleaning a blackboard is the same. To get the cleanest surface and reduce the chance of spreading dirt or chalk dust to the areas you have already cleaned, start at the top left hand corner and then work your way across and down the blackboard in a side to side motion, finishing at the bottom right hand corner.
If you are using any liquid cleaners, avoid writing on the blackboard until it is completely dry. Using chalk on a wet or damp blackboard can result in marks that can be permanent, or at least very difficult to remove. Plan to clean your blackboard at the end of the school day and then avoid using it until the following morning.
Option 1: Commercial Cleaners
- There are several different brands and types of cleaning solutions and cloths designed specifically for blackboards. Visit your local teacher's or janitor's supply store, select the cleaner that's best suited for you and then follow the instructions provided with the product to clean your blackboard.
Option 2: Lemon Oil
- Using lemon oil to clean your blackboard will result in a shiny surface and a clean, fresh scent. In addition, lemon oil kills any bacteria that may be living on the surface.
- Get some lemon oil, a measuring spoon and a clean, lint-free cloth
- Pour two teaspoons of lemon oil into the middle of the cloth
- Fold the cloth twice
- Place the cloth in a Ziploc bag, seal the bag, and allow it to sit for 12-24 hours
- Wipe the blackboard with the cloth
Option 3: Vinegar
- Like lemon oil, vinegar will kill most bacteria that accumulates on surfaces like blackboards. If you've ever used a vinegar and water solution to clean your windows, you know that using the solution also helps to avoid streaking.
- Get some white vinegar, some warm water, a bucket and a lint-free cloth
- Mix a solution of vinegar and water in a 1:8 ratio; for example, use one ounce (or cup) of vinegar for every eight ounces (or cups) of water
- Dunk your cloth into the solution and then wring out the cloth so that it is damp, but not dripping with solution
- Use the cloth to wipe the blackboard
Conclusion
Giving your blackboard a regular, thorough cleaning will help it last longer and make it easier to use. To clean your blackboard, use one of the cleaning solutions listed above and then, to reduce streaking and dust redistribution, wipe the blackboard starting at the top left hand corner, working your way down to the bottom right corner. When using a liquid solution, always let the blackboard dry completely before using it.
