Does microfiber shrink when washed?

Author: Prof. Billy Mertz  |  Last update: Sunday, April 6, 2025

The number one rule for microfiber is to only wash with cold water. Hot water can damage, shrink, and melt the synthetic polymer fibers causing the towels to lose their softness and absorbency. Warm or hot water can also loosen excess dye leading to discoloration issues over time.

Does microfiber shrink in the dryer?

☠️ Never use the Towel Cycle, Sanitizer Cycle, or any other high heat cycle on your washer or dryer, as the heat melts and shrinks microfiber. 🦠 135º for 60 minutes is the minimum temperature & time required to kill germs in the dryer and is safe for microfiber towels and pads.

Does microfiber fabric shrink?

Microfiber doesn't shrink when cared for correctly, and it's also wrinkle-resistant. However, if you want to iron your sheets, you can. Since heat damages microfiber, you should have your iron on a low setting.

Can you put microfiber cloth in the dryer?

After the lint trap has been emptied, you can place your microfiber towels inside the dryer separately from garments made with natural fibers as they tend to shed. Avoid adding dryer sheets and using high heat settings to dry microfiber towels as this may damage the fibers.

What are the disadvantages of microfiber fabric?

Disadvantages of Microfiber Fabric:
  • Can Feel Synthetic: Some people feel that microfiber lacks the natural feel of fabrics like chenille. ...
  • Can Be Hot: Microfiber does not breathe like natural fabrics, so it can feel warm or hot, especially in warmer climates or in summer.

Are You Washing Your Microfiber Towels Wrong?

What not to do with microfiber cloths?

Air-drying is the best option for microfiber, but if you choose to use a dryer, set it to a low heat or air-dry setting. DON'T use fabric softeners and harsh detergents. Fabric softeners can clog the fine microfiber fibers, reducing their ability to pick up dirt and moisture.

Why is microfiber better than cotton?

Since microfiber sheets are often made from synthetic materials, they are less prone to wrinkling and shrinkage in comparison to natural materials, like linen or cotton. Microfiber is lightweight, and the higher the quality of the sheet, the more moisture-wicking capabilities it will have.

What ruins microfiber towels?

The number one rule for microfiber is to only wash with cold water. Hot water can damage, shrink, and melt the synthetic polymer fibers causing the towels to lose their softness and absorbency. Warm or hot water can also loosen excess dye leading to discoloration issues over time.

Why can't you tumble dry microfiber cloths?

The edges give microfiber its scrubbing power and the surface area gives microfiber its absorbency. Those tiny little edges will degrade over time; the degradation is accelerated by heat! Typical residential clothes dryers reach 170°F inside the drum. If you can avoid it, don't dry microfiber on high heat.

Is it worth washing microfiber towels?

Properly washing your microfiber towels is essential to maintaining their effectiveness. Microfiber towels are a miracle of modern technology. They're ultra-absorbent, lint-free, and can snatch dust and dirt. But to keep them in tip-top shape, you've got to know the ropes of their care and cleaning.

How do you shrink microfiber cloths?

High heat is required to shrink synthetic fibers but high heat can also damage the colors on polyester. Turn your garment inside out before washing. Dry it on high heat, too. Put the garment on high heat in the dryer.

How many times can you use a microfiber cloth before washing?

How Often to Wash Microfiber Cloths. Wash microfiber clothes after every use or at least every third use. If they are wet or excessively soiled, wash them after each use. If they're used only for light and routine cleaning, wash them at least after every third use.

Does microfiber get softer after washing?

Microfiber sheets are as durable as cotton sheets. However, these sheets soften over time with multiple washes. If the bed sheets are not of high quality, they might not withstand for a long duration.

Can I put microfiber in the washer?

Microfiber cloths can be machine-washed for convenience or if the fabric is excessively dirty or stained. Do not wash microfiber cleaning cloths with other types of fabric. Other fabrics can ruin the fibers of your microfiber cleaning cloths, abrading the fibers and leaving lint on the microfiber surface.

Does microfiber stretch over time?

Microfiber is a durable material that can withstand wear and tear, ensuring you can use it in many environments without worrying about material stretching or sagging.

Is it OK to wet a microfiber cloth?

Microfiber cloths can clean great with just water. You can also pair them with your favorite cleaning products and disinfectants. When cleaning with microfiber cloths, fold them into fourths so you have multiple cleaning sides.

What happens if you put microfiber in dryer?

Can you dry microfiber towels in the dryer? Yes, but it is not recommended. Frequent drying will loosen fabric strands and make them prone to fabric pilling. If you do machine-dry, use a low heat setting and skip dryer sheets.

Will microfiber shrink in the dryer?

Always use low heat or tumble dry settings to prevent damaging the delicate fibers of your microfiber towels. High heat can cause them to melt or shrink, compromising their effectiveness.

What not to wash with microfiber?

The two products to avoid are bleach and fabric softener. Bleach WILL damage the fibers. Fabric softener eliminates "static cling" or electrostatic energy - this is a critical part of what makes a micro fiber work.

Can I use Dawn dish soap on a microfiber cloth?

Never use dish soap to wash microfiber towels. Even your everyday laundry detergent can be too harsh for these delicate towels, containing fragrances and other chemicals that could damage the fibers.

When should you throw out microfiber towels?

Microfiber Care

The ceramic coating will usually dry and crystallize on the towel and you don't want to use that again. Just toss those when done. Everything else can be reused. Eventually the nice towels will become ratty and they can be relegated to dirty jobs.

What are the disadvantages of microfiber cloths?

Dyes, flame-retardants, plasticizers, and more are often found in microfibers and, unfortunately, can be seen in our bodies as they pass through our systems. This material can also release these chemicals during use and laundering, contributing to air and water pollution.

Do microfiber cloths harbor bacteria?

Another advantage of microfiber is that, unlike cotton, it dries fast, making it hard for bacteria to grow in it. A laundering program is necessary if microfiber is used. This can include washing mops and cloths by hand, by machine, or using a laundering service.

How can you tell if a microfiber cloth is good quality?

Cloth Weight

You don't have to know the exact specs to pick a good cloth, but for reference, 200-300 GSM is considered good for general cleaning. 600-700 GSM cloths are thicker, softer, and better for delicate surfaces. A high-quality automotive detailing cloth might be in the 600-700 GSM range.

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