Selecting a Cleanroom Garment System

Choosing the right garment system is one of the most important steps in supporting contamination control for any cleanroom or controlled environment. The right cleanroom apparel not only protects sensitive products and processes but also enhances operator safety and compliance. Whether your facility is considering launderable, limited-use, or a hybrid approach, understanding the principles behind garment selection can make a significant difference in long-term performance and cost efficiency.

In this chapter, you'll discover:

• How garments help capture and control operator-generated contaminants.

• The differences between launderable (reusable) and limited-use (disposable) garment systems.

• Key factors for evaluating garment performance, durability, and compliance.

• Why cleanroom apparel selection should be based on process risk, facility needs, and cleanroom class.

You don’t need to be an expert to make informed decisions about garment programs—this guide is here to break down the essentials and give you a clear, practical foundation for your facility.

Overview

Cleanroom operators are the leading source of contamination, but also the most manageable variable. A comprehensive cleanroom garment program is essential for capturing static, particles, liquids, powders, chemicals, and even viable biological contaminants such as bacteria and mold. The selection of cleanroom apparel should be tailored to product criticality, cleanliness standards, and operational realities.

Both launderable and limited-use garments undergo rigorous testing for strength, durability, filtration efficiency, splash resistance, and ESD performance, following established industry standards like IEST-RP-CC003 and ASTM test methods. The results inform choices that align with process needs, operator comfort, and sustainability considerations.

"The most significant threat to cleanroom integrity is also the easiest to control – the humans working in the cleanroom."
— Jan Eudy, Cleanroom & Contamination Control Expert

Professional Insights for Cleanroom Garment Selection

• Contamination Control Begins with Garments: Cleanroom garments form the frontline barrier against viable and non-viable contaminants generated by operators.

• Understanding Launderable vs. Limited-Use: Launderable garments offer sustainability and cost advantages for high-volume use; limited-use options suit smaller operations, variable staffing, and hazardous processes.

• Evaluating Performance: Fabrics are evaluated for filtration efficiency, air permeability, splash resistance, static dissipation, and comfort. Ongoing performance monitoring ensures the garment continues to meet requirements over time.

• Customized Programs: Garment system design should reflect cleanroom classification, number of operators, process risk, and environmental goals—including recycling options for disposables.

• Compliance and Accountability: Traceability, regular audits, and adherence to industry standards (IEST, ISO, ASTM) are integral to a successful program.

By the end of this chapter, readers will understand how to:

• Assess contamination risks posed by human operators and how garments mitigate these risks.
  

• Compare launderable and limited-use cleanroom garment options for fit, performance, and cost.

• Identify critical performance criteria—filtration efficiency, ESD compatibility, durability, and splash resistance—used to select the best garment system for specific cleanroom applications.

EXPLORE MORE RESOURCES

• Managing a Launderable Cleanroom Garment Program

• Procuring Cleanroom Garments: Evaluating Ownership vs. Leasing Options

• Technical Series: Standard Operating Procedures for Controlled Environments