1. Pre-Clean Prep: Safety & Compatibility Checks

• Verify Material Safety:
  • Check the equipment manual to confirm IPA compatibility:
    • Safe Surfaces: Glass (beakers, microscope slides), metal (forceps, hot plates), and rigid plastics (polypropylene, HDPE).
    • Avoid: Anti-reflective (AR) optical coatings (use lens-specific wipes instead), soft plastics (PVC/polystyrene—may crack), and exposed circuits (limit to 70% IPA to prevent shorting).
  • Test a hidden spot (e.g., centrifuge base) with a damp wipe—wait 5 minutes to check for discoloration or swelling.
• Choose the Right IPA Wipe:
  • Use 99% electronic-grade IPA wipes for heavy residues (dried reagents, flux on soldered parts)—high purity avoids additive deposits.
  • Opt for 70% IPA wipes for disinfection (biological safety cabinets, pipette exteriors) or electronics—water content slows evaporation, improving residue lift.
  • Select lint-free polyester/microfiber wipes to prevent scratching (critical for balance pans, optical filters).
• Safety First:
  • Work in a ventilated area (fume hood or open window)—IPA vapors are flammable (keep away from Bunsen burners, heat lamps).
  • Wear nitrile gloves (latex absorbs IPA) to protect skin and avoid transferring oils to clean surfaces.

2. Equipment-Specific Cleaning Techniques

A. Glassware & Optical Equipment (Beakers, Microscopes, Spectrometers)

• Glassware (Beakers, Test Tubes):
  1. Wipe exteriors with a damp IPA wipe to remove fingerprints or reagent splatters—avoid scrubbing (prevents scratches).
  2. For dried residues (e.g., crystallized salts), hold the wipe against the spot for 20–30 seconds to soften, then wipe gently.
  3. Dry with a lint-free towel to avoid water spots (vital for volumetric glassware, where clarity affects measurements).
• Optics (Microscope Lenses, Detector Windows):
  1. First, use a static-neutralized bulb blower to remove loose dust—rubbing dust with IPA scratches AR coatings.
  2. Fold the wipe into a small, firm pad and wipe in single linear strokes (not circles) across the lens.
  3. Blot excess IPA with a dry optical wipe immediately—evaporated IPA residue clouds optics.

B. Electronic & Precision Tools (Balances, pH Meters, Centrifuges)

• Exteriors (Control Panels, Casings):
  1. Power down equipment; disconnect if cleaning near ports (e.g., balance USB slots).
  2. Use a slightly damp (not dripping) 70% IPA wipe to clean touchscreens or buttons—press lightly to avoid damaging internal components.
  3. For tight gaps (e.g., centrifuge lid latches), tear the wipe into a thin strip and guide with tweezers—removes trapped dust without forcing debris deeper.
• Sensitive Parts (pH Probes, Sensor Tips):
  1. Dab pH probe exteriors gently (don’t wipe)—avoids breaking the glass electrode.
  2. Clean sensor tips (e.g., dissolved oxygen meters) with a mini 2”x2” IPA wipe—ensure no liquid seeps into wiring.

C. Metal Tools & Heating Equipment (Forceps, Hot Plates)

• Metal Tools (Forceps, Scalpels):
  1. Wipe with 99% IPA to remove organic residues (tissue, oil) or chemical splatters.
  2. Dry immediately to prevent rust (critical for iron-based tools).
• Heating Gear (Hot Plates, Stirrers):
  1. Wait until fully cool (≤40°C)—hot surfaces cause IPA to evaporate instantly, leaving residues and increasing fire risk.
  2. Wipe ceramic/metal heating surfaces with a damp wipe to remove burnt-on spills (e.g., melted plastic)—use light pressure to avoid scratches.

3. Post-Clean Best Practices

• Inspect for Residue: Check surfaces under bright light—re-wipe if streaks or debris remain.
• Dry Thoroughly: Ensure electronics/moving parts (e.g., centrifuge rotors) are dry before powering on—moisture causes shorts or rust.
• Dispose Safely: Place used wipes in a fire-resistant bin—they stay flammable until dry.
• Store Wipes Properly: Keep unused wipes sealed to prevent evaporation (dried wipes lose efficacy) and contamination.