The most common type of wipe is the wet wipe and these are used for a variety of hygiene purposes. Whether they are cleaning a baby’s bottom or removing makeup, they are a convenient, effective solution for a range of tasks.
There are many different types of wet wipes available on the market, each with its own set of performance characteristics. Some are softer than others and some offer a greater level of absorption. The construction of a wet wipe also has an impact on its cleanliness and performance, so it’s important to choose one that meets the needs of the application.
Wet Wipes Manufacturers
Wet wipes are manufactured using a variety of fibre types, depending on the application. Some are purely natural fibres such as cotton, while others are synthetic, such as polypropylene. Synthetic fibres are typically longer in length, which makes them more resistant to lint and particle generation.
Other synthetic fibres include polyester, which is a petroleum-based fibre that is a natural solvent absorber. This material is a great choice for cleanroom applications where it is necessary to remove both water-soluble and oil-soluble chemicals from surfaces.
Woven fabrics are another option, with knitted or looping monofilament synthetics and woven polypropylene being some of the most popular options. This allows for a wipe that is very strong and will not shed, which is essential for ISO Class 3 and above environments.
The structure of the fabric influences its cleanliness and performance properties, with different weaves and patterns providing specific advantages. For example, the interlock knit pattern offers a stronger and more durable wipe. It’s also a better choice for low linting environments because it prevents the fabric from unravelling and shedding particles when snagged.
Spunlace Process
Most high-quality nonwovens are made with a spunlace process, which hydroentangles two fibres within the fabric. This is done without the use of any binders or additives. The result is a fabric that has a very low amount of fibers and residues, which means it can be flushed or disposed of in controlled environments.
A wide variety of materials can be used to make a woven wipe, including cotton, cellulose, and polyester. Cotton is the most common fabric for a wipe and offers a very soft, breathable surface that provides superior strength and absorbency.
Cellulose is another natural fibre commonly used in blended cleanroom wipes, offering a higher particle count than cotton but excellent sorbency. It’s most commonly found in blends with other synthetic fibres for added absorption, but it can be used alone as well.
Synthetic fibres are generally more resistant to linting and particulate generation than natural fibres, making them the most suitable choice for critical environment applications. Polyester offers a superior surface that is ideal for cleaning and chemical resistance and a high tensile strength, while polypropylene offers durability, chemical compatibility and exceptional cleanliness.
Clean And Wipe Plain Weave Non-Woven Fabric Rolls