This Is Why Microfiber Cloths Are The Ultimate Cleaning Tool | One Good Thing by Jillee

Since I discovered the magical cleaning abilities of microfiber cloths several years ago, they’ve been one of the most indispensable items in my cleaning toolkit. They’re such a staple for me that I assumed everyone knew about microfiber cloths and loved them as much as I do, but I recently learned that’s not actually the case!

I asked my Facebook followers for their stance on microfiber towels, and to my great surprise, most of the responders said they didn’t use them! I couldn’t stand the thought that people might not know about the game-changing cleaning powers of microfiber cloths, so I decided that today, that’s exactly what I would share with you!

My hope is that by the end of this post, you’ll understand what a microfiber cloth does, why they’re so useful, and which ones work best for cleaning and beyond! :-)

What Is A Microfiber Cloth?

While there are different types of microfiber cloths, all microfiber is made up of super-fine synthetic fibers that have an asterisk-like structure. Between the structure of the fibers themselves and the sheer number of fibers per square inch, microfiber cloths offer several benefits that make them extremely useful for cleaning.

Because of all of those microscopic nooks and crannies, microfiber is super absorbent and capable of absorbing up to six times its own weight in water. The friction between the individual fibers of these microfiber towels also generates static electricity, which acts like a magnet for tiny particles of dirt and dust (and even bacteria too!)

By contrast, the fibers in cloths made from cotton or nylon are massive compared to microfiber! That means a microfiber cloth can grab onto deeply ground dirt better than the big, clunky fibers in other cloths, which only clean the very top of a surface.

The Benefits Of Microfiber Cloths

1. They’re Effective

From shining up metal surfaces to removing dust and grime from hard-to-reach spaces, microfiber will outperform other types of material every time! If you’re like me, once you start using microfiber cleaning cloths at home regularly, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!

2. They’re Less Wasteful

You can use a microfiber cloth in almost any situation where you’d reach for a paper towel. And unlike paper towels, microfiber cloths can be washed and reused again and again, making them a much less wasteful. (Think of all the paper you’ll save!)

3. They Save Money

Not only are paper towels wasteful, but they can be an expensive habit too. While a set of decent microfiber cloths will cost more to purchase up front than a roll of paper towels, it won’t be long before you’ve made all that money back in savings (and then some!)

Microfiber cloths can also save you money on cleaning products, because a lot of times you won’t need to use them! A dry or damp microfiber cloth is all you need for a lot of different cleaning tasks, like dusting, cleaning windows and mirrors, and shining stainless steel. (Some people prefer to never use cleaning chemicals with their microfiber cloths in order to make them last as long as possible!)

But even in areas where you might prefer to use a cleaner, like wiping down surfaces in your bathroom or kitchen, microfiber is so absorbent that you’ll be able to clean more with less product. Your cleaning products will last longer, keeping more money in your pocket.

4. They’re Versatile

Many people only think about microfiber cloths in terms of everyday dusting or wiping down counters, but they’re so much more versatile than that! There are tons of great ways to use microfiber cloths for cleaning, which we’ll explore in more detail shortly!

The Best Microfiber Cloths To Buy For Every Job

Best For Everyday Cleaning

VibraWipe Microfiber Cleaning Cloths, 8-Pack

A great basic option for everyday tasks, these cloths are fuzzy, fairly plush, and densely packed with microfibers. Use them dry for dusting, or dampen with water to wipe down countertops, walls, appliances, and more. For added cleaning power, use with your favorite all-purpose cleaning spray.

Best For Kitchen Duty

The Rag Company Waffle-Weave Microfiber Drying Towels, 5-Pack

For post-dinner cleanup, drying dishes, and even scrubbing splatters off your stovetop, a waffle-weave cloth can provide the extra texture and absorbency you need to get the job done. These waffle-weave microfiber towels work really well, and are sure to become your tool of choice for just about any kitchen task!

Best For Facial Cleansing

One Fresh Face Microfiber Makeup Remover Cloths, 4-Pack

Removing your makeup with microfiber is a no-brainer: they’re quick, effective, and infinitely reusable! These plush, ultra-soft cloths are the perfect choice for sensitive facial skin, removing even the most stubborn makeup gently yet thoroughly. Simply dampen with warm water or micellar water and wipe, and watch your makeup disappear! (Also, feel free to check out the related products…)

Best For Electronics

MagicFiber Microfiber Cleaning Cloths, 6-Pack

These small, thin, ultra-fine microfiber cloths are often marketed for cleaning eyeglasses, but they’re the best microfiber for cleaning electronics too. The fibers are even finer than standard microfiber cloths, so you can clean delicate lenses and screens without scratching or damaging them. Use dry to remove dust and smudges, or pair with a screen cleaning spray for a deeper clean.

Best For Windows, Mirrors, And Cars

Auto Care Microfiber Glass Cleaning Cloths, 8-Pack

If cleaning cloths are the fluffy and electronics cloths are paper-thin, the best microfiber towels for glass and auto are somewhere in between. These cloths have a better texture and size to use on larger surfaces, but they’re also smooth enough to use safely on delicate surfaces like glass and car exteriors. Use them dry to clean windows and mirrors, or on your freshly-cleaned car to prevent water spots from settling on the surface.

Using Microfiber Cleaning Cloths

You can use a microfiber cleaning cloth to clean pretty much any surface you can think of! But there are certain surfaces that microfiber is particularly good for cleaning, including:

• Stainless Steel. Nothing works better than microfiber for removing smears and smudges, and it leaves behind a great shine!
• Cabinets. Microfiber reaches deep into the cracks and crevices around cabinet doors that other types of cloths routinely miss.
• Granite And Marble Counters. Microfiber picks up dirt, grime, and even sticky messes without scratching or etching the stone.
• Chrome Fixtures. After wiping down or scrubbing chrome fixtures, buff them with a dry microfiber cloth to leave them perfectly clean and ultra-shiny!
• Windows And Mirrors. Microfiber cloths leave windows and mirrors clean and free of both lint and unsightly streaks.
• Tubs And Showers. Using microfiber to wipe down your tub and shower after each use eliminates soapy residue so you can go longer between deep cleanings.
• Dusty Surfaces. Nothing else grabs onto dust and dirt like microfiber, and it doesn’t leave behind any dust-attracting residues.

How To Wash Microfiber Cloths

In order for your microfiber cloths to clean things effectively, you need to keep them clean too! But the good news is that since most microfiber towels are machine washable, it’s easy to do. Here are a few tips that will help you wash your used microfiber cloths safely and effectively:

• Rinse your microfiber cloths thoroughly with clean water after each use. This simple step will help prevent grime and cleaner residue from gumming up the fibers.
• Wash microfiber cloths in warm or hot water with a mild detergent. Never use fabric softener or bleach. Tumble dry on low heat, or air dry if possible.
• If you’re using your microfiber cloths frequently, you should be washing them at least once a week.

What do you use microfiber cloths for?