Sanitation in Daycares: Creating Healthy, Safe Environments for Children

Cleanliness in daycare facilities is about much more than appearances—it’s about protecting the health and well-being of every child, teacher, and caregiver who walks through the door. In Virginia, where regulations for childcare sanitation and food safety are strict, maintaining a hygienic environment is a legal requirement as well as a moral responsibility. From tiny hands touching tables to shared play spaces and meal areas, every surface matters when it comes to keeping children safe.

Kitchens, food prep stations, and eating areas must be held to the same standards as commercial kitchens. Surfaces should be sanitized after every meal or snack, and utensils, bibs, and plates should be washed using hot water and appropriate sanitizing agents. Cross-contamination from raw food, especially proteins like eggs and meats, can cause serious illnesses in small children. Regular disinfecting routines help prevent the spread of bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella, which are leading causes of foodborne illness in group care settings.

Bathrooms, diapering stations, and changing tables are another critical focus area. These spaces should be disinfected multiple times daily using child-safe, EPA-registered products. Even when surfaces appear clean, they may harbor harmful germs like Norovirus and Rotavirus, which are highly contagious and can spread rapidly in daycare settings. Proper handwashing procedures must be enforced for both children and staff before and after any bathroom or diapering activity.

Floors and carpets, especially in infant and toddler rooms, require daily vacuuming and frequent deep cleaning. Young children spend much of their time crawling, sitting, or lying on the floor—placing them in direct contact with any germs, allergens, or residues present. Floors can easily become a vector for illnesses, especially when food crumbs or bodily fluids aren’t properly cleaned. Investing in routine sanitation services ensures that flooring remains a safe place to play and explore.

Tables, counters, high chairs, and play surfaces should be disinfected between every use. Whether it’s lunchtime, snack time, or a shared art activity, these areas are among the highest-touch points in a childcare environment. Disinfecting wipes and sprays should be readily available and used consistently throughout the day. Toys should also be sanitized regularly—especially items that are mouthed or shared.

Even with strong sanitation practices, pests can find their way into daycare centers—especially when food is present. Ants, flies, and cockroaches are attracted to crumbs and trash, while rodents can be drawn to improperly stored food or cluttered storage rooms. That’s why routine pest inspections and preventative treatments—applied carefully and safely—should be part of your facility’s hygiene plan. San Pro Pest Control works with Virginia daycares to provide discreet, child-safe pest control options designed to support a healthy learning environment.

Six Important Health & Food Safety Facts for Virginia Daycares:

At San Pro, we understand that cleanliness is the foundation of trust between daycare providers and families. That’s why we offer tailored sanitation and pest prevention programs for childcare centers across the Richmond area—designed to meet both state health requirements and your center’s unique needs. Whether you’re running a weekday program, an aftercare group, or a faith-based daycare, we’re here to help you maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for every child.

Contact San Pro Pest Control & Sanitation Services

Richmond, VA | Serving Commercial Facilities Across Central Virginia