If you work in electronics, precision optics, or industrial maintenance, you already know that not all wipes are created equal.
The right cleanroom wipes can make a huge difference in cleaning efficiency, surface protection, and long-term maintenance costs.
But did you know that factors like friction, moisture, and surface type can affect how well a wipe performs? Let’s break it down so you can make the best choice for your needs!
In high-standard environments like cleanrooms and hospitals, a meticulous six-step cleaning process
Friction Matters – Why It Affects Cleaning Performance
When wiping down surfaces, the friction coefficient plays a key role in how effective your wipe is. Different factors can change this, such as:
✅ Dry vs. Wet Wipes
Dry wipes have lower friction, making them great for picking up dust and light debris.
Wet wipes (water-based) increase friction, helping remove stubborn smudges and residues.
Oil-wetted wipes reduce friction, which is perfect for sensitive surfaces like optical lenses and LCD screens.
✅ Glass vs. Tile Surfaces
On glass, cleanroom wipes tend to have higher friction, meaning they remove more contaminants.
On tile or rougher surfaces, friction is lower, which may require additional pressure for deep cleaning.
✅ Nonwoven vs. Woven Wipes
Nonwoven wipes have a higher friction coefficient, making them ideal for scrubbing tough dirt.
Woven wipes have lower friction, reducing the risk of scratches on delicate surfaces like semiconductor wafers.
Which Wipe Is Right for You?
🔹 Working with delicate surfaces (optical lenses, LCDs, semiconductors)? → Use low-friction woven wipes to avoid damage.
🔹 Need strong dirt and oil removal? → Try wet wipes for better scrubbing power.
🔹 Cleaning high-tech equipment or cleanroom surfaces? → Go for low-lint, high-absorbency wipes.
🔹 Dealing with stubborn stains and grease? → Use water-wetted nonwoven wipes for extra friction.
Final Thoughts
Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) is the best choice for cleanroom cleaning due to its moderate evaporation rate, excellent solvency, low residue, and good miscibility with water.
Choosing the right cleanroom wipe is about more than just material – friction, moisture, and surface type all play a role in getting the best results. The right wipe not only keeps surfaces spotless but also extends the life of your equipment and reduces maintenance costs.
Looking for the best wipes for your industry? Let’s talk! Drop a comment below or get in touch for expert recommendations. Clean smarter, not harder! 🚀