Keeping a school bus clean isn’t just about making it look nice—it’s about creating a healthier, safer ride for students and a better work environment for drivers. A dirty bus can quickly turn into a breeding ground for germs, clutter, and unpleasant odors. Plus, a well-maintained bus reflects positively on your school district or company.
If you’re a driver or manage a fleet, these practical cleaning tips will help keep your bus fresh, sanitary, and in great condition all year long!
Daily Cleaning Routine: A Few Minutes Makes a Big Difference
A little effort each day can go a long way in keeping your bus clean and preventing messes from piling up. A quick five-minute cleanup at the end of the day will make deep cleaning easier in the long run.
- Walk through the bus and pick up any loose trash.
- Sweep the floors to remove dirt, food crumbs, and debris.
- Wipe down high-touch areas like seat tops, railings, and handrails with disinfectant wipes.
These simple steps will keep your bus from looking and smelling like a mess by the end of the week.
Monthly Deep Cleaning: The Full Refresh
Even with daily maintenance, school buses need a deep clean at least once a month. This helps prevent buildup, remove hidden dirt, and extend the life of the interior.
Seats
With dozens of kids sitting in them daily, bus seats collect a lot of dirt, germs, and who knows what else.
- Wipe down all seats, backs, and armrests with a non-abrasive antibacterial cleaner.
- Check between and under seats for stuck trash or spills.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the vinyl.
Walls, Ceiling, and Roof
Start from the top and work your way down so you’re not cleaning the same areas twice.
- Use a general surface cleaner to wipe down the walls and ceiling.
- For sticky residue or tough grime, try a little WD-40 or a goo remover.
Windows and Mirrors
Kids love to press their faces, hands, and sometimes even food against bus windows. That buildup of fingerprints and smudges doesn’t just look bad—it’s full of germs.
- Spray windows with a streak-free glass cleaner.
- Wipe with newspaper instead of paper towels for a polished, streak-free shine.
- Don’t forget the windshield, mirrors, and door panels for clear visibility.
Floors and Aisles
Floors collect everything from dirt and dust to gum and spilled snacks, so they need extra attention.
- Mop newer buses or those with plywood flooring using warm soapy water.
- If your bus has an older, rubberized floor, a good hose-down might be the best approach.
- Apply a coat of clear liquid floor wax after cleaning to protect the surface and keep it looking fresh.
How to Handle Tough Stains and Odors
Some messes require a little extra effort to get rid of. Here’s how to tackle the most common trouble spots:
- Gum: Scrape it off with a putty knife or razor blade. If it’s really stuck, spray a little WD-40 to help loosen it.
- Mildew and Mold: Mix hot water and bleach, apply it to the affected area, and leave the windows open until it dries completely.
- Ink and Marker Stains: Try rubbing alcohol, nail polish remover, mechanic’s hand cleaner, or hairspray to remove stubborn marks.
- Lingering Odors: Sprinkle baking soda on the seats and floor, let it sit overnight, then vacuum it up the next morning.
When It’s Time for a New Bus
Even with the best cleaning habits, every bus reaches a point where it’s time to retire. If your bus is outdated, constantly breaking down, or too worn out, upgrading to a newer model is smart.
If you’re looking to replace an old bus or add a few more to your fleet, Las Vegas Bus Sales has a great selection of new and used school buses to choose from. Our buses are rust-free, well-maintained, and available with flexible financing options.
Check out our inventory online, or stop by the lot to find the perfect bus for your needs!
