Microfiber cloths are available in two forms — reusable or disposable — and each has its own set of pros and cons. Most common are reusable cloths, which must be laundered after every use. When handled correctly, these cloths can last 100 to 1,000 washings.
When cared for properly, your microfiber cloths can be washed and re-used up to 500 times or more. This makes microfiber one of the most economical cleaning materials existing today. And they save you from wasting thousands of paper towels in their lifespan.
Wash in warm or hot water with mild detergent. No fabric softeners – they clog the open spaces in the microfiber, making the fabric useless. Be careful what you wash with your microfiber. Avoid anything made with cotton because the microfiber will grab on to the lint.
Microfiber towels that are used for cleaning should be washed after every use. Microfiber cloths used for cleaning electronics and eyeglasses should be washed every three to five uses.
Your microfiber cloths will unfortunately not last forever, whether you use them every day or only once a month. The thin delicate fibers can become worn with use over time causing the cloth to become less effective. Fortunately, there are several ways you can increase the longevity of your microfiber cloths.
How Long Do Microfiber Cloths Last? One of the benefits of cleaning with microfiber is that it lasts a long time. Many microfiber cloths can take up to 500 washings. That's up to two years in a typical household.
A: We do not recommend using dish soap on your microfiber towels. Even the free and clear products have fragrances and other chemicals in them that could harm or hinder the microfiber and what it's intended to do.
Wash your microfiber towel after every 3 times you use it. It's also important to keep the towel dry when it's not in use. Check if it's getting damp while hanging in your bathroom. If it is, you may need to wash it after every time you use it.
Dirt and other particles stick to microfiber cloths. If you use a dirty microfiber item without washing it first, it can scratch and damage surfaces. Microfiber cloths may also smell bad after just one cleaning because they are holding on to moisture in their tiny fibers that also trap bacteria.
Both destroy microfiber cloths' cleaning powers. 2. Don't use vinegar, either. Although vinegar is a wonderful laundry aid, its acidity will erode the bristles.
OxiClean can be used on most of your laundry including microfiber cloths and towels. It should not be used on delicate items such as wool and silk. For that, you will need a more gentle method such as soap flakes or a non-biological detergent.
How many do I need? At least a dozen microfiber towels. 12 average size microfiber polishing cloths makes for a good small wash load in most washing machines. So use that as a target number to shoot for when building up your supply for microfiber polishing cloths.
Can I put microfiber cloths in the dryer? I recommend tumble drying on low, or no heat. You can even air dry them if you want. You also want to stay away from any type of fabric softener or even dryerballs—essentially anything that reduces static-cling.
Washing microfiber towels safely
The first important step is that the towels be washed before they are used. There is a finish on microfiber towels when they are sold, much like there is on clothing purchased at a store, and they should be washed before using to remove this finish.
The tiny fibers that make microfiber attract and lock in dust, dirt, and moisture. While microfiber is relatively durable, it becomes pretty useless once the fibers absorb the waxy residue fabric softener and dryer sheets leave behind.
Are all microfiber towels the same? No, there is a difference between quality cleaning towels and not-so-quality products. This can be based on a variety of factors, such as types of microfiber towels, the microfiber quality itself, GSM, and so much more.
If you use microfiber cleaning cloths, then you've probably discovered that there are different grades of cloth available for different tasks. Most manufacturers will carry at least 3 different types of microfiber cloths.
How to Wash Microfiber Cloths. Before you wash your microfiber cloths, it is important to know that you should never use fabric softener or bleach. Fabric softener will clog the spaces in the fibers and render your cloth useless. Bleach, on the other hand, will erode the fibers.
Spray and wipe interior.
Spray the Simple Green solution all over the inside of the washing machine tub, the rim, and the inside of the door or lid. Allow the product to sit for a few minutes to penetrate any soils and grime before wiping it away with a damp cloth, microfiber or paper towels.
Although the tight weave of microfiber helps it resist staining, you might wish to brighten white microfiber sheets from time to time. Microfiber manufacturers do not recommend using chlorine bleach as it breaks down polyester and polyamide. Instead, use gentler, greener alternatives to whiten microfiber.