In contamination-sensitive environments, even the smallest particles can compromise product quality or trigger production failures. That’s why cleanroom design doesn’t stop at filters, airflow, and garments—it extends all the way down to the floor. Sticky mats, also known as tacky mats or adhesive mats, play a deceptively simple but powerful role in contamination control.
Why Sticky Mats Matter in Cleanrooms
Sticky mats are placed at the entrances to cleanrooms and critical zones to trap particles from the soles of shoes, wheels of carts, and other rolling equipment. As personnel and materials enter controlled environments, these mats act as the first barrier against particulate contamination—capturing dust, dirt, and other microscopic debris that could otherwise be tracked in.
But their usefulness doesn’t end there. Sticky mats also help reduce the burden on internal cleaning protocols by minimizing the amount of contaminants introduced in the first place.
Choosing the Right Sticky Mat for Your Application
Not all sticky mats are created equal. Depending on the cleanroom class and application, you might need:
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Peel-off sticky mats: Made of multi-layered polyethylene sheets coated with pressure-sensitive adhesive, these are ideal for entry zones.
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Permanent polymeric floor mats: Designed to be cleaned and reused, they offer long-term cost savings for high-traffic environments.
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Antimicrobial mats: Infused with biocides to inhibit microbial growth, essential for pharmaceutical and biotech cleanrooms.
These mats are available in various sizes, tack levels, and layer counts to suit specific needs.
Can Sticky Mats Be Used Inside ISO-Classified Areas?
This is a common question—and the answer depends on the mat type and cleanroom classification.
In general:
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Peel-off mats are best placed outside ISO-classified areas, such as at gowning room exits or buffer zones.
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Reusable polymeric mats with appropriate certifications may be used within ISO 7 and above, especially in airlocks or pass-through areas.
However, for ISO 5 (Class 100) or cleaner environments, even a sticky mat may become a source of contamination if not maintained properly.
Maintenance Matters: Cleaning and Replacing Sticky Mats
Cleanroom contamination control is only as effective as the discipline behind it. Sticky mats must be cleaned or replaced regularly to remain effective.
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Peel-off mats: Remove the top layer when visibly dirty, or at least once per shift.
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Polymeric mats: Clean with approved solvents or cleanroom vacuums depending on SOPs—usually once per day or more, depending on traffic.
And remember:
When changing a sticky mat, peel the top layer slowly and evenly to avoid kicking up particles. A quick rip may release more contaminants into the air than it captures.
Placement Strategies: Not Just at the Front Door
For optimal performance:
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Place mats at entry points to cleanrooms, gowning areas, and transfer rooms.
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For larger facilities, use mats at inter-zonal transitions, where personnel move between clean areas of differing ISO classifications.
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In cleanrooms with heavy equipment, consider longer mats that allow for multiple steps, increasing the contact area.
Best Practices and Pro Tips
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Use high-tack mats for dusty environments, and low-tack for sensitive areas to avoid adhesive transfer.
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Do not overlap mats, which can cause uneven surfaces and trip hazards.
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Label mats by location and change schedule to ensure compliance.
Cleanroom Sticky Mat Checklist
Here’s a quick reference checklist for managing sticky mats in cleanrooms:
| Item | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Inspect for visible contamination | Daily | Replace or clean as needed |
| Peel top sheet (peel-off mats) | Every shift or when dirty | Peel slowly to avoid airborne release |
| Clean polymeric mat surface | Daily or more often | Use approved solvents or wipes |
| Check placement (flat, no bubbles) | Weekly | Adjust to prevent trip hazards |
| Inventory stock and reorder | Monthly | Maintain supply continuity |
Final Thoughts: Small Detail, Big Impact
Sticky mats are often overlooked in cleanroom planning—but they are among the most cost-effective tools in your contamination control arsenal. Whether you’re in semiconductor manufacturing, biopharma, or precision optics, they help protect your controlled environments from the ground up.
Looking for High-Performance Cleanroom Sticky Mats?
At Myesde, we provide industry-grade sticky mats tailored for demanding cleanroom applications. With multiple tack levels, layer options, and anti-microbial versions available, we support facilities from ISO 8 to ISO 5.
Contact us today to request a sample or explore our full cleanroom consumables catalog.
