Why do microfiber cloths feel scratchy?

Author: Luis Jacobi  |  Last update: Tuesday, June 10, 2025

They will grab onto your fingers as you pick up the towel, due to the lower GSM (Grams per Square Meter) fiber count and lower percentage of polyamide compared to polyester (80/20). Some of these towels have a GSM so low that they leave light marring and faint scratches in soft clear coats.

Why do my microfiber towels feel rough?

The strange feeling you get with good microfiber cloths is caused by the finely split fibers that attract and hold the dirt you're trying to remove. The finer the fibers, the better they work. And the finer the fiber, the more they grab and your skin, giving you the sensation you don't enjoy.

Why is my microfiber cloth scratching my glasses?

You're probably not using the correct cloth. You need a microfiber cloth designed for cleaning glasses not just any microfiber cloth. If you are using that then you must just have sand on your lens before you start rubbing it. That's way too many scratches to just come from a glasses cloth.

How do you get static out of microfiber cloth?

Static is an electrical charge on your towels. So all you really need to do is discharge it. Make sure you dryer is properly grounded. Put your towels on your dryer or washer for a little while and this might discharge the Static.

Why do microfiber sheets make me itch?

Do microfiber sheets make you itch? Microfiber is often made of polyester, which can cause allergic reactions in some people. The more you wash your sheets (and therefore break down the fibers), the less likely you'll be to have an allergic reaction to them over time.

Are You Washing Your Microfiber Towels Wrong?

Why does microfiber feel scratchy?

They will grab onto your fingers as you pick up the towel, due to the lower GSM (Grams per Square Meter) fiber count and lower percentage of polyamide compared to polyester (80/20). Some of these towels have a GSM so low that they leave light marring and faint scratches in soft clear coats.

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.

How often should I wash microfiber cloths?

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.

Are microfiber towels supposed to be staticy?

As already mentioned, split-strand shredded fibers are what give microfiber its best superpowers, increasing absorption, reducing dry time, creating friction, and making static electricity to attract and trap dirt.

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.

Are all microfiber cloths scratch free?

Most microfiber wash mitts and towels today are soft enough to provide scratch-free washing and drying performance, but it's still a good idea to doublecheck the weight of the material, just to be sure.

Is it OK to clean glasses with microfiber cloth?

Glasses are a piece of equipment that is often used every day and can therefore easily get dirty due to external elements or rubbing against the skin. It is therefore essential to clean them regularly, both the lenses and the frame, mainly using a microfibre cloth.

Can microfiber cloths irritate skin?

After all, microfiber – like any synthetic – does not enjoy natural properties, and as a result – generates an ideal environment for the development of microorganisms and bacteria. These, upon contact with allergic skin, can cause a number of unpleasant symptoms – rash, redness, or excessive dryness.

Why do my towels feel like sandpaper?

Hard towels are commonly caused by a build-up of chemicals, including those found in tap water. “Thoroughly cleanse your towels by adding 230ml or 1 cup of white vinegar to your wash,” advises Lucy Ackroyd.

How do you soften microfiber cloths?

To soften microfiber towels, add a cup of vinegar to your washer or basin when you wash them. After many uses, microfiber towels tend to become stiff and scratchy. Using fabric softener is a no-no for this material, vinegar, a natural fabric softener, is the best option.

Why do microfiber cloths feel weird?

Does Microfiber Feel Weird to you? Microfiber can feel odd because it catches on your skin. Some people don't like the “feel” of it but consider this, if it "grabs" your skin, it will likely also grab dirt, with no harmful cleaners.

How do you get static out of microfiber?

Rub your microfiber furniture with a dryer sheet in the high static areas. Not only will it reduce static cling, it will make your sofa smell fresh and clean! Run a wire hanger along the surface of your sofa where you are experiencing the static. Be very careful not to puncture or scrape the fabric.

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.

When should you throw out microfiber cloths?

If your microfiber towels are properly washed, dried, and stored, you should be able to reuse them hundreds of times or for a few years. To keep your towels in top condition, wash them after every use. You will know to retire your microfiber towels when they fail to absorb water or if they become rough to the touch.

What is the best detergent to wash microfiber towels?

If you can, use a detergent without dyes to clean microfiber towels and cloths. ARM & HAMMER™ has several detergents that fit the bill: ARM & HAMMER™ Free & Clear Liquid Laundry Detergent is free of dyes, perfumes, parabens, preservatives, and other common skin allergens.

Can you wash microfiber towels with Dawn?

Abrasive materials can harm the fabrics in a microfiber towel and make them less effective. Avoid fabric softeners, chlorine bleach, and soap-based detergents.

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.

What are the concerns with microfiber?

Microfibers can harm the small aquatic organisms that ingest them. Microfibers can also contain toxic chemicals that are intentionally added to textiles during the manufacturing process or that accumulate on plastic particles in the ocean.

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.”

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