How to Choose the Right Cleanroom Wipe for Your Needs
Not all cleanroom wipes are the same. The right choice depends on your environment, the type of work you’re doing, and the level of cleanliness required. Picking the right wipe helps you control contamination, protect sensitive equipment, and save money.
At Midwest Production Supply, we know the options can feel overwhelming — polyester knit, blends, nonwoven, dry, pre-saturated, sterile — so here’s a simple guide to help you choose the best cleanroom wipe for your application.
Cleanroom Wipes and ISO Classification
Every cleanroom has a classification, usually ranging from ISO 3 (very clean) to ISO 8 (less strict).
- ISO 3–5: Requires non-shedding wipes like 100% polyester knit.
- ISO 6–8: Blended or nonwoven wipes are often sufficient and more cost-effective.
Choosing wipes that match your ISO class helps ensure proper contamination control.
Cleanroom Wipe Materials Explained
- Polyester Microfiber Sealed Edge – Laundered, strong, durable, soft, clean, non-shedding and has more surface area of yarn vs Polyester.
- Polyester Knit Sealed Edge – Laundered, abrasion resistant and non-shedding.
- Polyester Knit Knife Cut – Laundered or non-laundered, abrasion resistant, absorbent with soft edge.
- Poly-cellulose – Strong, highly absorbent, economical
- Polypropylene – high loft, soft texture, low particles and fibers vs Poly-cellulose, compatible with disinfectants & solvents
- Non-woven Polyester – Absorbent, very soft, durable, clean
- Non-woven Cotton – Highly absorbent, heat resistant, soft
- Foam – Most absorbent available and low particle generation. Not heat resistant
Dry Wipes vs. Pre-Saturated Cleanroom Wipes
- Dry Wipes – Flexible and can be used with your own choice of solvent or disinfectant.
- Pre-Saturated Cleanroom Wipes – Commonly pre-moistened with 70% IPA/30% DI water. They save time, reduce chemical waste, and deliver consistent cleaning.
For disinfecting surfaces in controlled environments, pre-saturated wipes are often the most efficient choice.
Cleanroom Wipe Edge Types
The way a wipe is cut or sealed impacts how many particles it releases.
- Border Sealed Edge – Wide, durable and clean edge that has a “pressed” look to it. Recommended for ISO Class 3-5 cleanrooms
- Laser-Sealed Edge – Clean edge that has been heat sealed for cleanliness. Recommended for ISO class 3–5 cleanrooms.
- Ultrasonic Sealed Edge – Ultrasonically sealed edge that is soft, very clean and durable. Recommended for ISO class 3-5 cleanrooms.
- Knife-Cut Edge – Machine cut edge that is economical but may release fibers. Best for ISO 6–8 environments.
Sterile vs. Non-Sterile Cleanroom Wipes
- Sterile Cleanroom Wipes – Validated sterile, individually packaged, and irradiated. Required in aseptic environments such as pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device manufacturing.
- Non-Sterile Cleanroom Wipes – Common in electronics, optics, and industrial cleanrooms where sterility isn’t required.
If you’re in a regulated industry, sterile wipes are critical for compliance.
Quick Comparison: Cleanroom Wipe Options
| Type | Best for | ISO Level |
| Polyester Microfiber | Picking up particles, parts & equip. cleaning, wiping displays, applying and removing liquids | ISO 3–5 |
| Polyester Knit Sealed Edge | Wiping parts and equip., critical cleanroom cleaning | ISO 3–5 |
| Polyester Knit Knife-Cut | Critical cleanroom cleaning, soft edge for wiping scratch sensitive surfaces. | ISO 4–5 |
| Poly-Cellulose | General-purpose cleaning and spill control | ISO 6–8 |
| Polypropylene | General-purpose cleaning, parts & equip. cleaning, gown room wipe downs | ISO 6–8 |
| Non-woven Polyester | Cleaning lenses or other sensitive surfaces | ISO 6–8 |
| Non-woven Cotton | Cleaning high temperature equipment, optics, scratch sensitive surfaces/parts | ISO 6–8 |
| Foam | Assembly operations, applying and removing liquids | ISO 6–8 |
Final Thoughts on Selecting the Best Cleanroom Wipe
Choosing the right cleanroom wipe doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with your cleanroom class (ISO rating), then consider material, edge type, sterility, and the type of task you’re performing. That way, you’ll get the best balance of cleanliness, performance, and cost.
At Midwest Production Supply, we carry a full range of ISO cleanroom wipes from trusted brands like Berkshire, Teknipure, FG Clean Wipes and Contec. Whether you need ultra-clean wipes, sterile wipes, or cost-effective options, we have the right solution for your controlled environment. We are always happy to discuss your application and provide recommendations-call or email us today at 800-918-9692 or info@mpsupplyinc.com
Browse our Cleanroom Wipes to find the perfect fit for your needs.
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