Choosing the Right Disinfection Method for Your Cleanroom—Because One Size Doesn't Fit All
After years of designing and validating cleanrooms across pharma, medical device, and biotech sectors, we’ve learned a hard truth: having a cleanroom means nothing if your disinfection strategy is an afterthought. And no—wiping down surfaces with whatever’s handy doesn’t count.
In real-world operations, we rely on three proven methods: UV-C germicidal irradiation, isopropyl alcohol (IPA) or ethanol-based sprays, and ozone (O₃) fumigation—each with distinct strengths, limitations, and ideal use cases.
UV-C lamps are excellent for air and exposed surface decontamination, especially in unoccupied ISO Class 5 hoods or pass-through chambers. But shadowed areas? UV won’t reach them. We always pair UV with manual cleaning—it’s a supplement, not a solution.
Alcohol-based disinfectants (typically 70% IPA) are the workhorses of daily cleanroom hygiene. Fast-acting, residue-free, and effective against most bacteria and viruses, they’re perfect for wiping down work surfaces, tools, and glove changes. But they don’t kill spores, and overuse can degrade certain materials or create static—so we specify compatible wipes and rotation schedules with sporicidal agents.
Ozone, on the other hand, is our go-to for deep, whole-room decontamination during shutdowns or after contamination events. As a gas, it penetrates every corner—even inside ducts. But it’s corrosive, requires strict safety protocols, and demands thorough aeration before re-entry. We only recommend it for scheduled, engineered interventions—not routine use.
The biggest mistake we see? Relying on just one method. Effective cleanroom hygiene is layered: daily IPA wipes for operational control, UV for air and surface support, and periodic ozone or hydrogen peroxide vapor for terminal disinfection.
At the end of the day, disinfection isn’t about ticking a compliance box—it’s about protecting your product, your patients, and your reputation. And that starts with choosing the right tool for the right job.
Suzhou Pharma Machinery Co.,Ltd.
2026/01/28
Mia
