1. Pre-Use Preparation: Select Wipes and Prep the Workspace

• Choose the Right Wipe Variants:
  • IPA Wipes: Select based on the contaminant: 70% IPA for oil-based residues (fingerprints, adhesive) or 99% IPA for flux removal and disinfection. Opt for ESD-safe, lint-free polyester/microfiber wipes (ISO 14644-1 Class 5) for electronics or optics.
  • Pre-Wet Cleanroom Wipes: Match to the surface: Deionized water-based wipes for optical lenses/PCBs (residue-free), static-dissipative wipes for ESD-sensitive components (e.g., semiconductors), or mild surfactant wipes for general lab surfaces.
• Verify Surface Compatibility: Check the manufacturer’s guidelines for the item being cleaned (e.g., avoid IPA on soft plastics or uncoated rubber). Perform a spot test on an inconspicuous area if unsure.
• Prep the Area: Work in a well-ventilated space (to disperse IPA vapors) and lay a lint-free mat to catch loose particles. Ground yourself with an ESD wrist strap if cleaning electronics.

2. Step-by-Step Combined Usage Workflow

Step 1: Pre-Clean with IPA Wipes (Contaminant Dissolution)

• Fold the IPA Wipe: Fold into a 4-layer pad to concentrate solvent, avoid finger contact with the cleaning surface, and create multiple usable layers.
• Target Contaminants: Wipe the surface in slow, deliberate strokes—match the stroke pattern to the surface shape:
  • Flat Surfaces (PCBs, lab benches): Use single horizontal/vertical strokes with 50% overlap (avoids spreading residue).
  • Curved Surfaces (lenses, connectors): Use radial strokes (center to edge) for even coverage.
  • Tough Residues (dried flux, old adhesive): Hold the IPA wipe against the area for 5–10 seconds to let alcohol break down the contaminant—do not scrub (prevents scratches).
• Avoid Over-Saturating: Ensure the wipe is damp (not dripping). Excess IPA can seep into crevices (e.g., PCB component housings) and damage internal parts.

Step 2: Final Clean with Pre-Wet Cleanroom Wipes (Residue Removal)

• Use a Fresh Pre-Wet Wipe Immediately: Do not wait for IPA to fully dry—this prevents streaks from forming as alcohol evaporates.
• Mirror the IPA Wipe Pattern: Wipe in the same direction as Step 1 to catch loosened particles and residual IPA. Apply light pressure:
  • For optics/lenses: Use just enough pressure to make contact (avoids coating damage).
  • For electronics: Use static-dissipative pre-wet wipes to neutralize any remaining charge while cleaning.
• Inspect for Streaks/Fibers: After wiping, hold the surface under angled light to check for missed residues or lint. If needed, repeat with a fresh pre-wet wipe—never reuse wipes (they trap contaminants).

Step 3: Dry (If Needed) and Verify Cleanliness

• Dry Water-Sensitive Surfaces: For electronics (e.g., sensor modules) or optics, follow the pre-wet wipe with a dry, lint-free cloth to blot excess moisture. Allow the item to air-dry completely (15–30 minutes) before powering on or storing.
• Final Inspection: Use a magnifying glass (10–20x) for fine-pitch electronics or optics to confirm no particles, streaks, or residues remain. For PCBs, use a continuity tester to ensure no short circuits from leftover debris.

3. Task-Specific Tips for Common Applications

• Electronics (PCBs, SMDs): Use 99% IPA wipes for flux removal, then static-dissipative pre-wet wipes to eliminate IPA residues. Focus on cleaning around component leads—avoid getting wipes caught in pin gaps.
• Optical Instruments (Lenses, Mirrors): Pair 70% IPA wipes (gentler on coatings) with deionized water-based pre-wet wipes. Use small 4”x4” wipes for precision access to lens edges.
• Lab Equipment (Balances, Spectrometers): Use 70% IPA wipes for disinfection, then mild surfactant pre-wet wipes to remove IPA residues. Avoid wiping calibration markers—use a dry corner of the pre-wet wipe for nearby areas.

4. Safety and Waste Disposal Guidelines

• Dispose of Wipes Properly: Place used IPA wipes in fire-resistant bins (IPA is flammable) and pre-wet wipes in standard cleanroom waste bins—do not mix them (prevents cross-contamination).
• Avoid Reusing Wipes: Single-use ensures no contaminant transfer; reusing wipes negates the benefits of the combined workflow.
• Store Wipes Correctly: Keep both wipe types in sealed dispensers to preserve IPA potency (for IPA wipes) and prevent pre-wet wipes from drying out.