Lab Wipes

Lab wipes are indispensable in any laboratory or scientific setting. They're commonly used to clean instruments and surfaces and wipe away dust, grime, and minor chemical or biological spills. Some lab wipes come impregnated with disinfectant or sterilizing solutions, allowing for the disinfection of surfaces and equipment. Lab wipes also contribute to equipment maintenance by ensuring cleanliness, thus prolonging service life and performance.

Wipes used to disinfect medical equipment may also be used in some laboratories. Depending on the infection control standards, hospital wipes may contain stronger disinfectants, such as quaternary ammonium compounds suited for a wide range of microbes. Disinfectant wipes for labs may not be as robust a cleaning agent and may contain consumer-grade disinfectants or isopropyl alcohol.

Hospital wipes typically comply with different standards than lab wipes. Whereas laboratories may require wipes to be lint-free or low-linting, hospital wipes must be registered with the EPA and gain FDA approval for medical use.

No, not all lab wipes are created equal. Lab wipes commonly used in cleanrooms generally do not shed excess material, making them suitable for critical environments. However, some labs may have laxer standards. Generally, low-lint or lint-free wipes are made from polyester, cellulose, or a blend of synthetic fibers. Lint-free wipes won't damage equipment, unlike standard paper towels that shed material during use.