The present invention relates to a nonwoven fabric having a relatively low level of ionic contaminates which is achieved by exposing the fabric to a deionized water wash, preferably, in-line with the nonwoven production process, thereby eliminating, or at least reducing, the need for an expensive and time consuming cleanroom laundering. The fabric is primarily comprised of continuous filament fibers and may be manufactured into such end-use products as cleaning wipes and protective clothing for cleanrooms and surface coating operations, such as automotive paintrooms. Also encompassed within this invention is a method for producing a nonwoven fabric having a relatively low level of ionic contaminates.