What inspectors check regarding hygiene at Welsh nurseries
Inspectors don't just look around — they ask for documentation. When was the fridge last cleaned? Who signed off on yesterday's toilet cleaning? Where's your toy sanitizing log?
This checklist shows you exactly what CIW expects — daily tasks, weekly deep cleans, and the records you need to keep.
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Use appropriate disinfectant. Potties must be emptied, washed, and disinfected immediately after use.
Changing mat wiped with disinfectant after every nappy change. No exceptions. This is a top CIW concern.
Pay attention to corners, under furniture, and high-traffic areas.
Use food-safe sanitizer on eating surfaces. Clean highchair trays and straps thoroughly.
High-touch surfaces are key infection control points. Inspectors notice these.
Nappy bins should have foot-operated lids and be emptied more frequently.
Bedding must be individual to each child. Launder weekly or immediately if soiled.
Soap, paper towels, and sanitizer always available. Check child-height sinks.
Toys that go in mouths must be removed from play, cleaned, and dried before reuse. No exceptions.
Dishwasher-safe toys can be machine washed. Others wiped with disinfectant solution.
Wash at 60°C minimum. Remove any soft toys that cannot be washed.
Check for bird droppings, debris, and standing water. Inspectors check outdoor areas too.
Water trays must be emptied daily. Check sand for contamination before each use.
Use food-safe sanitizer. Separate cloths for kitchen (colour-coded system recommended).
Must be 0-5°C. Record in temperature log book. Report any issues immediately.
Check dates on all items. Clean shelves and drawers with food-safe cleaner.
Use fresh cloths daily. Launder at 60°C or use disposable cloths.
Follow manufacturer guidance. Sterilizing solution replaced as directed.
Dust builds up quickly. Check for cobwebs in corners. Inspectors notice the details.
Children touch windows constantly. Clean inside at child level weekly.
Vacuum daily, but deep clean/shampoo monthly or more if needed. Stained carpets fail inspections.
Dust buildup affects air quality. Include extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens.
Inspectors look for documented schedules with evidence of completion (initials/signatures).
All chemicals locked away, out of children's reach, with safety data sheets available.
Different colours for toilets, kitchen, general areas. Prevents cross-contamination.
Inspectors may ask staff about cleaning protocols. Everyone should know the basics.
First impressions matter. Inspectors notice dirty corners, stained carpets, and smells.
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Best practice is yes. Different areas have different cleaning needs. A kitchen needs different attention than a play room. Room-specific schedules show inspectors you're thorough.
Keep at least 12 months of records. Inspectors may ask to see historical documentation to verify consistent cleaning practices.
Standard colours: Red = toilets/bathrooms, Blue = general areas, Green = kitchen, Yellow = clinical areas. Prevents cross-contamination and shows CIW you're serious about hygiene.
CIW can issue a non-compliance notice requiring immediate action. Serious or repeated issues can affect your registration. The good news: most hygiene issues are easily preventable with good documentation.