What side of microfiber cloth do I use?

Author: Urban Robel  |  Last update: Sunday, November 2, 2025

There's a right side and a wrong side of some microfiber cloths. “Most microfiber cloths are the same on each side, but if you have a dual-sided cloth, then use the ribbed side for scrubbing and the fluffy side for dusting,” says Taylor. Using it dry instead of damp (or vice versa).

Why do microfiber cloths have two sides?

We all know that many mf towels come with a short nap side and a more plush, longer nap side. We also know the reason for this is that the short nap is best for removing wax, sealants, etc. and the longer nap provides for maximum protection of the paint when applying QD, rinseless and waterless washes.

Is it better to use microfiber cloth wet or dry?

Microfibre is not designed to be used dry. It needs water to work. (The two cloth method in my link above is reliant on the surface still being wet from the first cloth.)

What is the proper way to wash microfiber cloths?

Wash microfiber cloths in warm or cold water whether you are using a washer or washing by hand in a sink or plastic tub. Select the load size. Use a regular wash-and-spin cycle. Add the detergent but no fabric softener to dispensers.

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.

Different Ways To Hold Microfiber Towels For Detailing

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.

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.

Can you put microfiber cloths 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.

Can you use microfiber cloth with Windex?

Choose lint-free

Microfiber or other lint-free towels won't leave behind little specks on glass surfaces. Newspaper or old, clean cotton diapers are other great options.

Can you wash microfiber towels with regular detergent?

Washing Microfiber Cloths. When washing microfiber cloths, avoid harsh soap, fabric softener or detergent with laundry additives, including fragrances and fabric conditioners. These coat the fibers of the cloth and make them less effective for cleaning. Lightly dusty or dirty microfiber cloths can be hand-washed.

Can you sleep with a microfiber towel on?

Can you sleep in a microfiber hair towel? You can, though we wouldn't necessarily recommend it unless you have curly hair. In the case of curly or textured hair, sleeping with your curls in a microfiber towel (also known as “plopping”) can keep them in place, so they maintain their shape while you snooze.

Are microfiber towels worth it?

These towels also dry quicker than cotton towels. While cotton towels are also absorbent, microfiber is designed such that it can absorb up to seven times its weight in water. Microfiber is also extremely fine and can be an excellent choice of towel when cleaning potentially sensitive items, like electronics or glass.

Which side of microfiber cloth to use?

There's a right side and a wrong side of some microfiber cloths. “Most microfiber cloths are the same on each side, but if you have a dual-sided cloth, then use the ribbed side for scrubbing and the fluffy side for dusting,” says Taylor. Using it dry instead of damp (or vice versa).

Which side of towel to use?

The loop free side is often smooth to shed water and, with half of the loops gone, it is lighter, less bulky and dries out faster. The soft side also makes a perfect canvas for patterns or printing. If both sides of the beach towel were loopy, it would become waterlogged and heavy.

Do microfiber cloths leave lint behind?

Not only does it feel like they haven't been cleaned thoroughly, but they can also leave hair and lint behind on surfaces that you're trying to clean. With its amazing ability at holding onto dust and dirt, high-quality microfiber is professionals' choice when it comes to cleaning.

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.

Is it better to dust with wet or dry microfiber cloth?

For dusting, leave the cloth dry. For other chores, dampen the cloth, then wipe surfaces clean. When the cloth starts to leave behind dirt or lint, or if you've used it a few minutes, re-fold to a fresh section.

Do you wash microfiber towels before use?

Always wash new microfiber towels prior to first use to remove any loose factory production fibers. Always wash newer black, orange, and red colored towels separately from lighter colored towels to avoid any risk of bleeding.

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.

What is better than microfiber cloth?

As a cleaning material, cotton is lauded for being gentle on surfaces. In addition, cotton cloths require minimal financial outlay and so are seen as a cost effective material. CleanLink also points out that natural cotton is familiar and therefore widely trusted by cleaners.

Is it better to clean with cotton or microfiber?

The tiny fibers of microfiber effectively pick up and trap 99.54% of dirt, dust and bacteria at the microscopic level using water alone, reducing the amount of chemicals your facility needs for maintenance. Standard cotton mops only pick up 67% of dirt and will re-deposit 33% of that back onto your floors1.”

Can you wipe TV with microfiber cloth?

Find your microfiber cloth. These soft, dry cloths are the same type of cloth you would use to clean your smartphone or tablet. They're perfect for flat screens because they won't leave any lint behind. Gently wipe the screen with the microfiber cloth from top to bottom using a circular motion.

What laundry detergent is good for microfiber towels?

#2 – Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Detergent:

It's free from harsh chemicals and dyes, reducing the risk of skin irritation and fabric damage. This detergent removes stains and odours from microfiber towels without compromising their integrity.

Can I wash my car with a microfiber cloth?

Lint-Free: Unlike some other materials, microfiber towels are virtually lint-free, which is essential for achieving a spotless finish on car surfaces. Versatility: These towels can be used for a variety of car cleaning tasks, including washing, drying, buffing, polishing, and even cleaning the interior.

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