FAQ

Swabs

Q. What is a cleanroom swab?

A cleanroom swab is a specialized cleaning tool used in controlled environments such as cleanrooms, laboratories, and manufacturing facilities where maintaining a high level of cleanliness and eliminating contaminants is essential. Cleanrooms are environments with low levels of airborne particles and other pollutants to ensure the integrity of sensitive processes, products, or experiments.

Cleanroom swabs are designed to be non-shedding, low in particle generation, and non-reactive, so they do not introduce contaminants or interfere with the materials being processed or tested. They come in various shapes and sizes, typically with a handle or shaft made of materials like plastic, wood, or metal, and a head made from materials like foam, polyester, or microfiber.

The choice of swab material and construction depends on the specific cleaning requirements and the type of surface or equipment being cleaned. Some cleanroom swabs are pre-saturated with isopropyl alcohol or other cleaning agents to aid in removing residues and contaminants.

Cleanroom swabs play a critical role in various industries, including semiconductor manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, aerospace, and medical devices, where even tiny particles or contaminants can cause significant defects or compromise product quality. Proper cleaning and maintenance of cleanrooms and equipment are vital to ensure consistent and reliable performance in these industries.

Follow our Linkedin

Q. What are the differences between normal cleanroom swabs and cleaning validation swabs?

The head material gets a special treatment during production to reduce the TOC-level for the TOC-swabs and to reduce the background disturbtion for the HPLC-swab. All sampling-swab-handles have a notch for an easy break-off into the vial. Click here to learn more about swabs validation.

Q. Why is the handle of the ESD-swabs different?

These handles are made from a different material ( Stat-Rite®) to avoid static charge. The static dissipative plastic alloy used to make the handles is inherently static dissipative. It contains no additives, coatings or surfactants so it functions at any level of humidity and it is very resistant to solvents even acetone.

Q. Where can I get more information about the cleaning validation sampling procedure?

Please download our TechNote "Swabs for Cleaning Validation in Pharma" and our "Swabbing guide". For more information or a workshop/online-training please contact your regional sales manager.

Q. I need a special size which is not in your standard portfolio - can I get a customozed swab and whom should I contact?

Custom swabs - At Texwipe® we understand that the best swab for your application may be something unique. We can create a custom swab for your specific application. Please, contact your regional sales manager.

Q. What are the uses of cleanroom swabs?

Cleanroom swabs are essential tools used in various industries, especially in environments that require strict contamination control, such as cleanrooms and sensitive manufacturing processes. These swabs are designed to effectively clean and remove particles, residues, and contaminants without leaving any trace of lint or other foreign matter. Some common uses of cleanroom swabs include:

Electronics Manufacturing: Cleanroom swabs are extensively used in the electronics industry for cleaning delicate electronic components, printed circuit boards (PCBs), and other sensitive equipment during assembly, testing, and maintenance processes.

Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology: In pharmaceutical and biotech cleanrooms, swabs are used to sample surfaces and equipment to ensure proper hygiene and prevent cross-contamination.

Aerospace and Defense: Cleanroom swabs are employed in aerospace and defense applications for cleaning critical components, optics, and precision instruments to maintain performance and reliability.

Medical Device Manufacturing: During the manufacturing of medical devices and equipment, cleanroom swabs are utilized to ensure proper cleanliness and quality of the products.

Optics and Photonics: In the optics and photonics industry, where precision is crucial, cleanroom swabs are used to clean lenses, mirrors, and other optical components without scratching or damaging them.

Semiconductor Industry: Cleanroom swabs are widely used in the semiconductor manufacturing process to clean and maintain the purity of wafers, chambers, and other semiconductor equipment.

Automotive Manufacturing: In automotive manufacturing facilities, cleanroom swabs are used for cleaning sensitive electronic components, sensors, and precision parts.

Food and Beverage Production: In the food and beverage industry, cleanroom swabs are used to monitor and maintain cleanliness in processing equipment and packaging areas.

Printers and Print Head Maintenance: Cleanroom swabs are employed to clean print heads and other critical components in printers, ensuring consistent print quality.

Laboratories: In research and analytical laboratories, cleanroom swabs are used for sampling, cleaning, and handling sensitive instruments and equipment.

It's important to note that different cleanroom swabs are designed for specific applications and requirements, such as solvent compatibility, particle generation, and overall cleanliness. When selecting cleanroom swabs, it is crucial to consider the specific needs of the application and ensure that the swabs meet the required standards and specifications for cleanliness and performance.

Follow our Linkedin

Q. What are common cleanroom contaminants and causes?

Cleanrooms are controlled environments designed to minimize the presence of airborne and surface contaminants to ensure the quality and integrity of products or processes. Despite the strict protocols and procedures, various contaminants can still be present. Some common cleanroom contaminants include:

Particulates: Tiny solid particles suspended in the air, often originating from human skin, clothing fibers, equipment, or the surrounding environment.

Microorganisms: Bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microscopic organisms can be introduced into cleanrooms through people, equipment, or the ventilation system.

Aerosols: Airborne liquid or solid particles, such as mists, sprays, or dust, which can enter the cleanroom and contaminate surfaces or products.

Chemicals: Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), cleaning agents, and other chemicals may be introduced from cleaning procedures, materials, or equipment.

Electrostatic discharge (ESD): Static electricity can lead to ESD events, potentially damaging sensitive electronic components.

Outgassing: Some materials used in cleanrooms may release volatile substances over time, contributing to contamination.

Improperly filtered air: If the cleanroom's air handling systems are not adequately maintained or filters are not functioning correctly, contaminants from the outside environment may infiltrate the cleanroom.

Human error: Inadequate adherence to cleanroom protocols, improper gowning, or the presence of untrained personnel can introduce contaminants.

Packaging materials: Contaminants from packaging materials used to transport goods or equipment into the cleanroom can be a source of contamination.

Facility design: Poorly designed cleanroom layout or improper airflow patterns can lead to the spread of contaminants within the controlled environment.

To maintain a cleanroom's intended level of cleanliness, thorough cleaning and monitoring processes are essential, along with the proper training and adherence to cleanroom protocols by personnel working within the controlled environment.

Follow our Linkedin

Q. What are the different types of cleanroom swabs?

Cleanroom swabs are essential tools used in controlled environments, such as cleanrooms, where maintaining high levels of cleanliness and avoiding contamination is crucial. Different types of cleanroom swabs are designed to meet specific requirements and are made from various materials to suit different applications. Some common types of cleanroom swabs include:

Foam Swabs: Foam swabs are made from polyurethane foam, which has excellent solvent compatibility and high absorbency. These swabs are ideal for cleaning delicate surfaces, applying solvents, and removing excess residues. Foam swabs come in different sizes and shapes to address various cleaning needs.

Polyester Swabs: Polyester swabs are constructed from a synthetic material that has low particle generation and good chemical resistance. These swabs are often used in precision cleaning applications, particularly in sensitive electronic components and hard-to-reach areas.

Microfiber Swabs: Microfiber swabs are designed to trap and remove microscopic particles effectively. They are often used in cleaning sensitive optical surfaces, camera lenses, and other high-precision equipment.

Cotton Swabs: Cotton swabs, also known as cotton-tipped swabs, have a cotton tip attached to a plastic or wooden handle. They are commonly used in less critical cleanroom environments for general cleaning and application of solutions.

ESD-Safe Swabs: Electrostatic discharge (ESD)-safe swabs are designed to prevent damage to sensitive electronic components that could be harmed by static electricity. These swabs are usually constructed with conductive materials that dissipate static charges.

It's important to select the right type of cleanroom swab based on the specific needs of the cleanroom environment and the surfaces or equipment being cleaned. Each type of swab has unique characteristics that make it suitable for different applications, so proper selection is essential to ensure effective cleaning and avoid any risk of contamination.

Follow our Linkedin

Q. What are environmental swabs?

Environmental swabs are sampling tools used to collect samples from surfaces in the environment to test for the presence of various microorganisms, contaminants, or residues. These swabs typically consist of a sterile swab attached to a handle, which makes it easy to swipe and collect samples from different surfaces.

The primary purpose of environmental swabbing is to assess the cleanliness and hygiene of surfaces in various settings, including healthcare facilities, food processing plants, laboratories, and public spaces. By testing environmental swabs, organizations can monitor and identify potential sources of contamination, prevent the spread of infections, and ensure compliance with health and safety standards.

Common uses of environmental swabs include:

Microbial monitoring: Swabs are used to detect and quantify bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms present on surfaces. This is particularly important in healthcare settings and food processing facilities to prevent the spread of infections and maintain product safety.

Allergen detection: Swabs are employed to identify the presence of allergens in food processing areas, helping to prevent cross-contamination and ensure product safety for individuals with specific allergies.

Residue detection: Swabs can be used to test for the presence of chemical residues, such as cleaning agents, pesticides, or heavy metals, on surfaces to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Cross-contamination prevention: Environmental swabs can identify potential sources of cross-contamination in various industries, ensuring that proper sanitation measures are in place.

To use an environmental swab, the swab is rubbed or rolled over the targeted surface to collect any microorganisms or contaminants present. The swab is then returned to its sterile packaging for transport to a laboratory, where it is processed for analysis and identification of any potential hazards.

It is important to use proper sampling techniques and follow established guidelines to obtain accurate and reliable results. Environmental swabbing is a valuable tool in ensuring the safety and cleanliness of various environments.

Follow our Linkedin

Q. How do the different cleanroom classification methods compare?

Cleanroom classification methods are used to categorize cleanrooms based on their level of cleanliness. The primary methods for classifying cleanrooms include ISO 14644-1, FS 209E, and EU GMP Annex 1. Here's a comparison of these methods:

ISO 14644-1 (International Organization for Standardization):

ISO 14644-1 is a globally recognized standard for cleanroom classification. It replaced the previous FS 209E standard in most parts of the world.
It uses the concept of airborne particle counts to classify cleanrooms into different classes. The particle counts are measured in particles per cubic meter (e.g., ISO Class 5, ISO Class 7, ISO Class 8, etc.).
ISO 14644-1 also sets limits for particles of different sizes (0.1 μm, 0.5 μm, 1 μm, 5 μm, etc.) that are permitted in each class of cleanroom.
FS 209E (Federal Standard 209E):

FS 209E was a widely used cleanroom classification standard in the United States before being replaced by ISO 14644-1.
Like ISO 14644-1, FS 209E classifies cleanrooms based on airborne particle counts. However, the classes and allowable particle counts are different between the two standards.
For example, an ISO Class 5 cleanroom corresponds to a Class 100 cleanroom in FS 209E. The numbers indicate the maximum allowable number of particles per cubic foot.
EU GMP Annex 1 (European Union Good Manufacturing Practice, Annex 1):

EU GMP Annex 1 is a guideline specific to cleanrooms used in the pharmaceutical industry within the European Union.
It includes requirements for cleanroom classification and monitoring but focuses more on the manufacturing of sterile medicinal products.
Annex 1 recommends similar airborne particle limits as ISO 14644-1 for different cleanroom grades (Grade A, B, C, D), but it also emphasizes microbial monitoring and control.
Comparison:

ISO 14644-1 is now the most widely adopted standard worldwide, offering a more consistent global approach to cleanroom classification.
FS 209E is no longer commonly used, but it's worth noting its historical significance and its influence on cleanroom standards.
EU GMP Annex 1 is specific to the pharmaceutical industry within the European Union, addressing both particle and microbial control, but its principles align with those of ISO 14644-1.
When considering cleanroom classification, it's essential to understand the specific requirements of the industry and region where the cleanroom is located. Manufacturers and regulatory bodies often follow one of these standards to ensure the appropriate level of cleanliness for their specific applications.

Follow our Linkedin

Wipers

Q. What are cleanroom wipes?

Cleanroom wipes, also known as cleanroom wipers, are specialized cleaning materials used in environments that require high levels of cleanliness and contamination control. These environments are typically found in industries such as semiconductor manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, aerospace, medical device manufacturing, and other fields where even minute particles or contaminants can negatively impact the final product or research outcomes.

Cleanroom wipes are designed to be low-linting, non-abrasive, and made from materials that minimize the release of particles or fibers. They come in various sizes and materials, including polyester, microfiber, polypropylene, cellulose, and blends of these materials. The choice of material depends on the specific cleaning requirements of the cleanroom or controlled environment.

Some key features and characteristics of cleanroom wipes include:

Low Particulate Generation: Cleanroom wipes are manufactured to have low particle and fiber release to avoid contamination of sensitive equipment and products.

Absorbency: They are designed to efficiently absorb liquids and clean surfaces without leaving residues or streaks.

Non-scratching: Cleanroom wipes are soft and non-abrasive to prevent damage to delicate surfaces or equipment.

Compatibility: Some cleanroom wipes are pre-saturated with cleaning solutions that are compatible with the specific requirements of the cleanroom environment.

Cleanroom Classification: Cleanroom wipes are available in different classes based on their particle generation and cleanliness level. The class designation corresponds to the ISO cleanroom classification system, such as ISO Class 1, Class 10, Class 100, etc., indicating the number of particles allowed per cubic meter of air.

Follow our Linkedin

Q. What are the proper cleanroom wiping techniques?

Proper cleanroom wiping techniques are essential to maintain the cleanliness and integrity of the controlled environment. Cleanrooms are used in various industries, such as pharmaceuticals, electronics, aerospace, and biotechnology, where even the tiniest contaminants can be detrimental to the processes or products being produced. Here are some key steps and guidelines for cleanroom wiping:

Use the right materials: Select appropriate wiping materials that are compatible with the cleanroom environment. Common materials include non-woven wipes, microfiber wipes, and polyester wipes. They should have low particle generation, low linting, and be free from contaminants.

Wear proper cleanroom attire: Before starting any wiping procedure, ensure you are wearing the appropriate cleanroom garments, including gloves, a gown, and a face mask, to prevent the introduction of particles and skin oils.

Prepare the wiping solution: If a wiping solution is necessary, use a cleanroom-approved cleaning agent. Some cleanrooms use isopropyl alcohol or other specialized cleaning solutions. Ensure the solution is properly diluted according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Follow a wiping pattern: Adopt a systematic wiping pattern to ensure complete coverage of the area. Start from the cleanest area and work towards the dirtier zones. Avoid cross-contamination between different surfaces.

Use gentle pressure: Apply only light pressure while wiping to avoid damaging sensitive surfaces or releasing particles into the air.

One-directional wiping: Whenever possible, use one-directional wiping, moving from one side to the other, to prevent particles from being redistributed.

Change wipes regularly: Replace wipes frequently to avoid spreading contaminants. Dispose of used wipes properly according to cleanroom protocols.

Avoid wiping overhead surfaces: Wiping overhead surfaces can release particles downward, contaminating lower surfaces. Use alternative cleaning methods for these areas.

Follow cleanroom class-specific protocols: Different cleanrooms have different cleanliness classifications (ISO Class 1 to 9, for example), each with its specific protocols. Ensure you follow the appropriate procedures for your cleanroom class.

Perform regular training: All cleanroom personnel should receive proper training on cleanroom wiping techniques to ensure consistency and effectiveness.

Always adhere to the cleanroom's specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and guidelines while performing any cleaning tasks. Proper cleaning and wiping techniques are critical to maintaining a controlled environment and ensuring the quality of products or processes within the cleanroom.

Follow our Linkedin

Q. What is a non-woven wiper?

Texwipe offers a variety of cleanroom wipes: dry wipes, pre-wetted or pre-saturated wipes, non-sterile and sterile wipes, industrial and laboratory wipes to meet the strict requirements of pharmaceutical, bio-medical, and medical device, semiconductor & microelectronics, healthcare, aerospace, aviation & defense, laboratory, nutraceuticals/food, print, and automotive industries.

Nonwoven fabric is a fabric-like material made from staple fibre (short) and long fibres (continuous long), bonded together by chemical, mechanical, heat or solvent treatment.

For the bonding Texwipe uses the hydroentagle process: this is a bonding process which uses fine, high pressure jets of water which penetrate the web, hit the conveyor belt (or "wire" as in papermaking conveyor) and bounce back causing the fibres to entangle.

Q. Which material is the cleanest?

Man-made material (Polyester, Nylon, Polypropylene etc.) is cleaner than natural material (Cotton, Cellulose etc.) The cleanest material is Polyester. Our clean room wiper families include polyester sealed-border and sealed-edge wipers for the most critical environments and a variety of cut-edge wipes for less critical areas. Texwipe’s wipers are tested for fibers, particles, ions, residue and endotoxin to ensure exceptional cleanliness for consistent quality and high performance.

Q. What's the difference between knitted polyester and microdenier/microfiber?

For wipers made from knitted polyester Texwipe is using yarn-filaments thicker than ten micrometeres. Microfiber (or microdenier) is synthetic fiber finer than one denier, having a diameter of less than ten micrometres. The most common types of microfiber are made of polyester, nylon, polyamid etc. Specific characteristics are softness, toughness, absorption, water repellence, electrostatics, and filtering ability.

Q. Which testings is Texwipe doing for sterile wipers?

Additional to the normal testings for particles, NVR, Ions and more, Texwipe is doing special tests for sterile products which are needed for a complete validation: Bioburden, Endotoxins.

Q. What's the benefit of pre-wetted wipers?

Advantages: convenient and easy to use. They save time - Eliminate finding and filling squirt bottles,
Reduce number of steps to clean a device. They save money - Minimize hazardous waste, Reduction of alcohol usgae. They improve safety - Reduce VOC emissions,
Minimize exposure to alcohol vapors. Eliminate handling of flammable liquids, Reduce potential for solvent spills, Reduce the potential for accidents.

Q. I need a special wiper which is not available on your website.

At Texwipe we are working closely with the users of our wipers to find the best solution. We can customize lots of the parameters to meet the specific demand (wiper size, number of wipers per bag, specialty packaging requirements, custom presaturation etc.) Contact us in The Netherlands.

Q. How Many Passes With a Cleanroom Wipe Will Get a Surface Clean and Sterile?

Texwipe cannot provide specific recommendations regarding how many swipes/passes of a wiper on a surface will make the surface clean or free of microorganisms.The main reason for this is each situation where wipers are used is different and has many variables, each of which will have an impact on the outcome of any cleaning. Contact us for further information

Q. What is a Low Endotoxin Cleanroom Wipe?

A low endotoxin cleanroom wipe has a guaranteed endotoxin limit of <20 EU/device – <0.5 EU/mL. This is especially important when you read the FDA Guidance for Industry: Pyrogen and Endotoxins Testing.

Q. How do I fold a wiper for a proper use?

These are the steps that you should follow to fold a cleanroom wiper:

1- Hold the wiper in mid air. Take the wiper by its edges and fold in half, during the folding action the wiper should not be place in any surface.

2- Fold the wiper in half again, creating four cleaning faces.

3- Work from the cleanest areas to the dirtiest area in long, overlapping unidirectional strokes. Each face of the cleanroom wiper will be used for one time.

Q. What are the different cleanroom wipe materials?

Cleanroom wipes are essential tools in controlled environments like semiconductor manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, aerospace, and other industries where maintaining a clean and sterile environment is critical. Different materials are used to make cleanroom wipes, each with specific properties suited for various tasks. Some common cleanroom wipe materials include:

Polyester: Polyester cleanroom wipes are made from continuous filament polyester fibers. They are low in particles and fibers, providing excellent cleanliness and abrasion resistance. Polyester wipes are suitable for general cleaning purposes and critical wiping tasks in cleanrooms.

Polypropylene: Polypropylene cleanroom wipes are made from 100% melt-blown polypropylene fibers. They offer high absorbency, low particle generation, and chemical compatibility. These wipes are often used for absorbing spills and cleaning sensitive surfaces.

Microfiber: Microfiber cleanroom wipes are made from ultrafine synthetic fibers, usually a blend of polyester and polyamide. They are known for their high absorbency and ability to capture and trap smaller particles effectively. Microfiber wipes are suitable for wiping delicate surfaces without scratching them.

Cellulose: Cellulose cleanroom wipes are made from natural wood pulp fibers and synthetic binders. They are soft, absorbent, and non-abrasive, making them suitable for gentle cleaning of surfaces and equipment. Polyester fibers are often added (commonly called "poly-cellulose") to increase the strength of the material, especially when wet.

Cotton: Cotton cleanroom wipes are made from natural cotton fibers. They are soft and absorbent, but they can produce more particles compared to synthetic materials, making them less common in critical cleanroom applications.

Knit: Knit cleanroom wipes are made by knitting together synthetic fibers. They are strong, soft, low-linting, and provide good wiping performance.

Nonwoven: Nonwoven cleanroom wipes are made from fibers that are mechanically or chemically bonded together without weaving. They come in various materials, such as polyester, cellulose, polypropylene, rayon, and blends, offering different levels of absorbency and cleanliness.

When choosing a cleanroom wipe material, consider factors such as the level of cleanliness required, compatibility with cleaning agents, absorbency, abrasion resistance, and the type of surfaces to be cleaned. Different cleanroom classifications and applications may demand specific materials to meet their cleanliness and contamination control needs.

Follow our Linkedin

Q. What are cellulose wipes?

Cellulose is a natural, organic compound found in the cell walls of plants, making it biodegradable and renewable. Cellulose wipes are eco-friendly and considered a more sustainable alternative to traditional wipes made from synthetic materials like polyester or polypropylene. Cellulose wipes offer several advantages, such as being biodegradable and eco-friendly, making them a more sustainable option compared to synthetic alternatives. Their high absorbency and soft texture make them effective for gentle cleaning tasks. Cellulose wipes are not be as effective for heavy-duty cleaning tasks as some synthetic materials, which can be more durable.

Follow our Linkedin

Q. Since Revolve™ is made from the upcycled bottles, is the material clean (from a microbial standpoint)?

There are several steps in the manufacturing process that makes Revolve™ a clean product. The collected bottles are sorted, ground, washed at 194°F (90°C), repolymerized and extruded at 550°F into yarn. The temperature exposure during these steps ensures of all possible microbes are killed. During Texwipe’s manufacturing process, the fabric is further processed to remove all other contaminants. Lastly, if you need a sterile product for the most critical sterile applications, Revolve™ offers a range of sterile Revolve™ products that are gamma-irradiated and validated to a sterility assurance level of 10-6 according to the AAMI guidelines

Q. Does Revolve™ perform the same as the virgin polyester?

At Texwipe, we measure the product performance by absorbency (sorption rate and sorption capacity), particles and fibers, ions, and nonvolatile residue. Tests on Revolve™ product showed that the performance characteristics are similar to our wipers made from virgin polyester and conform to the industry’s standards for virgin polyester wipers.

Q. Is the Revolve™ line of products made from recycled wipers?

No. The Revolve™ products are made from post-consumer water bottles. The plastic bottles are cleaned, ground and melted to make a polyester yarn that is used in the regular knitting process to make fabric used to form wipers and mop covers.

Q. Can Revolve™ be used in the most critical and demanding cleanroom applications?

Yes. The Revolve™ product line uses clean, upcycled polyester yarn to make wipers and mops that meet industry standards for cleanliness and performance. Use these products just like you would use any other wiper or mop into your cleanroom or controlled environment – from ISO Class 3 – 7, or Class 1 – 10,000, or EU Grade A – D and below

Q. Why does it take so many water bottles to make a bag of Revolve™ wipers?

Every bag of Revolve™ product indicates the number of bottles needed to make it. For example, 47 water bottles are required to make one bag of TX1709 wipers. The number of bottles may seem large but that is because there is not much polyester in a bottle to be made into yarn. Also, Texwipe does not add any other types of yarn into the fabric.

Q. Can the wiper be recycled after use?

No. The used wipers should be discarded according to your facility’s SOP, and local, State and Federal guidelines and regulations.

Q. What makes Revolve™ a sustainable product?

The Revolve™ line of products is made using upcycled postconsumer water bottles. By using the Revolve™ products, your company will participate in the reuse of the polyester polymer, saving the number of post-consumer bottles indicated on each Revolve™ product bag from the landfill and making our planet cleaner.

General

Q. How can I obtain test data that is not on the ITW Texwipe Datasheet?

Texwipe submits its products to rigorous testing to ensure products meet performance and contamination criteria, including absorbency, surface resistivity, particles, fibers, nonvolatile residues and ions, all of which are reported on the product datasheet. If you have need for other test performance data, please contact your sales representative.

Q. How did Texwipe get started?

It all started in 1964 when Mr. Edward Paley invented a product to solve a problem that no one could see. The problem was microcontamination -- minute particles that were creating errors on the disk and tape drives of the burgeoning mainframe computer industry. In developing the first low-lint cloth for cleaning computer equipment, Mr. Paley also created a company and invented an industry. Today, Texwipe is a worldwide leader in contamination control. We're solving problems related to surface contaminants and microbes in cleanrooms, manufacturing plants and biotech labs. We're working with the leaders in the high-technology industries to apply our expertise in ever expanding ways. We're the best in the business -- the business we began. Click About Us above to learn more about Texwipe.

Q. Where are your headquarters and manufacturing facilities?

Texwipe is headquartered in Kernersville, NC (USA), with European headquarters in The Netherlands and Asian headquarters in China. Our manufacturing sites are in Kernersville, NC (USA), China and the Philippines.

Click here to obtain address, phone and e-mail information. Click About Us to learn more about the company.

Q. What is ITW CC doing for Texwipe?

ITW-CC is currently working in 2 cleanrooms. One dedicated to the fully-automated wiper production; one with a filling-line for the pre-wetted wipers and for all the custom made products for our customers.

Q. What is Vertex?

Vertex® cleanroom wipers are made from 100% polyester material with a sealed edge processed on Texwipe’s fully automated Vertex® manufacturing system. Vertex® process advanced cleanroom wiper manufacturing technology takes wipers to the highest level in the industry.

Customer Service

Q. Can you provide me with a list of distributors that sell your products?

For information about distributor(s) in your area, please contact your local Texwipe sales representative.

Q. How can I get a sample of your product?

Contact your local sales representative to request product samples.

Q. How can I place an order with you?

You can contact our customer service emailing texwipe@itw-cc.com or calling us +31 88 1307 410.

Q. How can we obtain case size and weight of a product?

Please contact Customer Service or local distributor for that information.

Q. I have a unique product requirement. Can you develop a custom product?

Yes, Texwipe develops custom products. Please call your local sales representative to discuss your product requirements.

Mops

Q. Which mop can I use for isolator cleaning?

For Isolator cleaning you can use the MiniAlpha Mop or the Small Clipper Mop. Please see also our "Isolator Cleaning Guide" and the TechNotes ITC-1 "Cleaning of Compounding Aseptic Isolators (CAIs) and Class II Biological Safety Cabinets (BSCs)"amd ITC-2 "Cleaning of Pharmaceutical Isolators". You can view them here.

Quality

Q. Is there a quality difference in products from USA, Asia and Europe?

No, Texwipe implemented a global quality system which is valid for every factory

Q. How can I get CoA, CoC, CoI, regulatory certificates?

After registering, you can download the Certificates analysis, compliance, irradiation, regulatory from our Texwipe website.

Q. Do Texwipe products expire?

The only products that have a shelf life or expiration date are presaturated wipes, bottled solutions, and sterile products.

Others

Q. Which adhesives are used for Texwipe labels?

Texwipe cleanroom labels are constructed of durable face stocks coupled with acrylic based adhesives to create a reliable, chemical resistant label for critical environments and applications. Texwipe's cleanroom labels are cleaned and packaged in a controlled environment.

Q. Can I get custom cleanroom labels - and whom should I contact?

Yes, that's possible. Please contact your regional sales manager or our sales support team in NL.

Applications

Q. Can I find lint-free wiper?

There is no absolute lint-free wiper available worldwide. Lint-free is always a subjective view of expectations according to the point of use of the wiper. Minimizing the risk of contamination by the wiper is key. We can help you to find the best product according to your need. Please contact us for more information.

Q. Which products are suitable for the food industry?

Texwipe offers NSF certified products which are allowed to clean surfaces which are in direct food contact, they can be TX4409, TX8723, NSF certificates. Please contact us for more information.