Let’s Dive into Kimberly Clark KLEENGUARD A20 Breathable Particle Protection Coveralls, Kimberly-Clark 58535 Denim Blue, With Zipper Front, No Elastic, Case of 24
In my line of work, protecting yourself from hazardous particles is paramount, whether it’s dealing with asbestos abatement, mold remediation, or even just handling certain materials on a construction site. The Kimberly Clark KLEENGUARD A20 Breathable Particle Protection Coveralls, Kimberly-Clark 58535 Denim Blue, With Zipper Front, No Elastic, Case of 24 offer a compelling solution for those who need a disposable barrier against dry particulates and light liquid splashes. Coming from Kimberly-Clark, a trusted name in safety products, and available in a case of 24, these coveralls promise convenience and affordability without sacrificing essential protection.
My need for these coveralls stemmed from a recent project involving the demolition of an old barn containing potential mold spores and rodent droppings. I was looking for a disposable coverall that was breathable enough to wear for extended periods, provided adequate protection, and wouldn’t break the bank considering the scale of the project. Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the distinct denim blue color, a refreshing change from the typical white or yellow coveralls you often see. They felt surprisingly lightweight, and the absence of elastic at the wrists and ankles was a deliberate choice for increased ventilation, which I appreciated.
I considered other options like the DuPont Tyvek coveralls and some generic SMS (Spunbond Meltblown Spunbond) coveralls from other manufacturers. However, I chose the Kimberly Clark KLEENGUARD A20 primarily for its balance of breathability and particle protection, along with the trusted reputation of the Kimberly-Clark brand. Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. Disposable coveralls can often feel like wearing a plastic bag, but the promise of breathability and the known quality of Kimberly-Clark gave me hope that these would be a worthwhile investment.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kimberly Clark KLEENGUARD A20 Breathable Particle Protection Coveralls, Kimberly-Clark 58535 Denim Blue, With Zipper Front, No Elastic, Case of 24 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Kimberly Clark KLEENGUARD A20 Breathable Particle Protection Coveralls was during the initial stages of the barn demolition. I wore them for about six hours straight in relatively dry conditions with temperatures in the low 60s Fahrenheit. The coveralls were surprisingly comfortable for a disposable garment.
The breathability was noticeably better than other coveralls I’ve used, and I didn’t feel like I was overheating, even while performing physically demanding tasks. Getting in and out of the coveralls was straightforward, thanks to the zipper front. One small issue I encountered was the lack of elastic at the wrists and ankles. While this aided ventilation, it also meant I had to be extra careful to tape the sleeves and pant legs to my gloves and boots to ensure a tight seal against particles.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Kimberly Clark KLEENGUARD A20 Breathable Particle Protection Coveralls daily, I can confidently say they hold up well under normal conditions. I haven’t experienced any rips or tears during regular use, despite the lightweight feel of the material. Maintaining the coveralls is simple: they are disposable, so there is no cleaning involved.
Compared to past experiences with cheaper coveralls that tore easily or lacked breathability, the KLEENGUARD A20 definitely outperform them. I’ve previously used Tyvek suits, and while they offer a higher level of liquid protection, they aren’t as breathable as these. The KLEENGUARD A20 strike a good balance between protection and comfort for dry particulate hazards.
Breaking Down the Features of Kimberly Clark KLEENGUARD A20 Breathable Particle Protection Coveralls, Kimberly-Clark 58535 Denim Blue, With Zipper Front, No Elastic, Case of 24
Specifications
The Kimberly Clark KLEENGUARD A20 Breathable Particle Protection Coveralls, Kimberly-Clark 58535 Denim Blue, With Zipper Front, No Elastic, Case of 24 are designed with specific applications in mind. They are made from MicroForce Barrier SMS fabric, which combines a microfilament matrix between tear-resistant spunbond polypropylene layers. This fabric provides improved protection against submicron-sized particles (0.26µm) and light liquid sprays.
These coveralls are designed to meet Class 1 Normal Flammability under the Federal Flammable Fabrics Act (16 CFR 1610). The fabric will melt when exposed to open flame or temperatures over 150°C (302°F). The case contains 24 individual coveralls. My specific order was Size XX-Large, with Kimberly-Clark No.: 58535.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Kimberly Clark KLEENGUARD A20 Breathable Particle Protection Coveralls is to provide a barrier between the wearer and hazardous particles. They accomplish this effectively, offering a good balance of protection and breathability. The absence of elastic at the wrists and ankles is a double-edged sword: it improves ventilation but requires additional taping for a complete seal.
One potential area for improvement would be the addition of a hood for head and neck protection. Another would be offering a wider range of sizes to accommodate different body types more comfortably. Overall, the KLEENGUARD A20 meet my expectations for a disposable particle protection coverall.
Design & Ergonomics
The denim blue color of the Kimberly Clark KLEENGUARD A20 Breathable Particle Protection Coveralls is a small but welcome design element. The material is lightweight and comfortable for extended wear. The zipper front makes it easy to put on and take off the coveralls.
The lack of elasticated cuffs, while beneficial for ventilation, does mean that care has to be taken to ensure that gloves and boots are adequately sealed to the suit to prevent ingress of particulate. A simple addition to the design could dramatically improve the protection offered.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kimberly Clark KLEENGUARD A20 Breathable Particle Protection Coveralls are designed for single-use, so maintenance is not a concern. They are surprisingly durable for a disposable garment, but they are not intended for heavy-duty applications. Under normal conditions, they should last through a full workday without tearing or ripping.
If a tear were to occur, it would be advisable to stop work and replace the coverall immediately to ensure continued protection. They are easy to dispose of properly after use, following local regulations for potentially contaminated materials.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kimberly Clark KLEENGUARD A20 Breathable Particle Protection Coveralls do not come with any specific accessories. However, to maximize protection, they should be used with appropriate gloves, boots, and respiratory protection. Since these coveralls do not include a hood, consider a separate hood for full head and neck coverage.
These coveralls are designed to be compatible with a wide range of personal protective equipment (PPE) from various brands. Select PPE items that are rated for the hazards at hand. Duct tape or specialized PPE tape is also helpful for sealing the cuffs of the coveralls to gloves and boots to ensure a continuous barrier.
Pros and Cons of Kimberly Clark KLEENGUARD A20 Breathable Particle Protection Coveralls, Kimberly-Clark 58535 Denim Blue, With Zipper Front, No Elastic, Case of 24
Pros
- Breathable SMS fabric enhances comfort during extended wear.
- Denim blue color distinguishes them from standard white coveralls, reducing the risk of cross-contamination.
- Zipper front allows for easy donning and doffing.
- Effective particle protection against submicron-sized particles (0.26µm).
- Good value for money when purchased in a case of 24.
Cons
- Lack of elastic at wrists and ankles requires taping for a complete seal.
- No integrated hood for head and neck protection.
Who Should Buy Kimberly Clark KLEENGUARD A20 Breathable Particle Protection Coveralls, Kimberly-Clark 58535 Denim Blue, With Zipper Front, No Elastic, Case of 24?
These coveralls are perfect for professionals working in: Asbestos abatement, Mold remediation, Construction, Agriculture, General maintenance, and any environment where exposure to dry particulates and light liquid splashes is a concern. They are especially beneficial for those who need to wear protective clothing for extended periods.
Those who require a higher level of liquid protection or resistance to hazardous chemicals should consider other options, such as Tyvek suits with sealed seams. Also, those who do not like the idea of taping gloves and boots to a protective suit should consider coveralls with integrated elasticated cuffs. Must-have accessories for use with these coveralls include: Gloves, Boots, Respiratory protection (if required by the environment), and PPE tape to secure the cuffs.
Conclusion on Kimberly Clark KLEENGUARD A20 Breathable Particle Protection Coveralls, Kimberly-Clark 58535 Denim Blue, With Zipper Front, No Elastic, Case of 24
The Kimberly Clark KLEENGUARD A20 Breathable Particle Protection Coveralls, Kimberly-Clark 58535 Denim Blue, With Zipper Front, No Elastic, Case of 24 offer a good balance of protection, comfort, and affordability. The breathability of the SMS fabric is a major selling point, making them suitable for extended wear.
The lack of elastic at the wrists and ankles is a trade-off for increased ventilation but requires the user to take extra care to seal the cuffs. At a price of $193.99 for a case of 24, the value proposition is reasonable, especially considering the Kimberly-Clark brand reputation. I would personally recommend these coveralls to anyone needing reliable particle protection in a variety of environments, provided they are aware of the need to tape the cuffs. If you’re in the market for disposable coveralls, give the KLEENGUARD A20 a try – your comfort and safety will thank you.