Using cleanroom wipes for wiping is a crucial part of maintaining cleanliness in cleanroom environments. However, many organizations fall into common mistakes that not only reduce cleaning effectiveness but can also cause contamination to spread. This article thoroughly analyzes the seven common mistakes when wiping cleanrooms with cleanroom wipes and offers practical solutions to help cleanroom managers improve cleaning efficiency and product quality.
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Neglecting the Necessity of Regular Wiping
Cleanrooms and controlled environments require daily cleaning and maintenance using cleanroom wipes to prevent contaminant buildup. Contaminants generally fall into two categories: film-like residues and particulate contaminants, both of which can cause critical defects in microelectronics. Failure to clean regularly decreases cleanliness levels and leads to costly downtime and increased production costs. For example, in a Class 100 cleanroom, work areas should be wiped every shift, walls and corners thoroughly cleaned weekly, and other maintenance tasks performed as scheduled—skipping these increases particle accumulation. -
Using Unfolded, Flat Cleanroom Wipes
Using cleanroom wipes unfolded wastes material and risks spreading contaminants rather than removing them. The correct method is to fold the wipe twice, forming a quarter size, which provides multiple clean surfaces and increases cleaning efficiency. Used wipes should be discarded according to protocols to avoid recontamination. -
Using One Wipe for an Entire Area
A single cleanroom wipe, properly folded, provides approximately eight clean surfaces—each surface should be used only once. Using a contaminated surface further spreads contaminants. Wiping should be performed in one direction with 10%-25% overlap. After each use, flip the wipe to a clean surface. Prepare sufficient wipes to thoroughly clean the entire area. -
Wiping From Dirty/Wet Areas Toward Clean/Dry Areas
Wiping in cleanrooms must follow a “clean to dirty” progression to avoid dragging contaminants into clean areas. Large spills or contamination should first be isolated and controlled using cleanroom-specific absorbent materials before wiping with cleanroom wipes, ensuring contaminants do not spread. -
Wiping in Circular Motions
Wiping in circles disperses particles over a wider area, damaging the cleanroom environment. The correct approach is to apply firm, even pressure and wipe in straight, single-direction strokes with about 10% overlap, flipping the wipe to a clean surface after each pass. -
Using Wipes That Are Too Dry or Too Wet
Dry wipes can capture some particles but achieve best results when slightly dampened. Overly wet wipes leave dirty residues, causing rework and wasted time. Depending on cleanroom grade and scale, choose either dry wipes used with a separate cleaning agent or pre-moistened wipes. When using dry wipes with cleaning agents, avoid direct contact between the bottle and wipe to minimize cross-contamination. -
Using Wipes Unsuitable for the Cleanroom Grade
Different cleanroom grades require specific cleanroom wipe standards—for example, semiconductor industries typically require Class 100 or Class 10 wipes. Using inappropriate wipes compromises cleanliness and introduces risks. Select wipes that comply with industry standards and regulatory requirements tailored to your application.
Summary:
Proper use of cleanroom wipes is essential not only for cleaning efficiency but also for ensuring product quality and production safety. Avoiding these seven common mistakes and following standard operating procedures can effectively reduce contamination risk, extend cleanroom equipment life, and improve production stability and compliance.