How to Wash Microfiber Cloth & Towels: Keep Them Clean and Cleaning

These tiny fibers pick up everything so much better than cotton, including dust mites, bacteria, and pollen. Plus, they dry quickly and are ready to go again and again. Cleaning fanatics everywhere are enjoying microfibers because they absorb more water than cotton, making cleaning so much easier and more effective. So the next issue at hand is how to wash microfiber towels properly when they get dirty from all that dusting and cleaning. Your friends at Sheets Laundry Club offer an overview with helpful tips.

Sort, Rinse & Pre-wash: How to Prepare Your Microfiber Cloths Before Washing

After each time you use a microfiber cloth, it is a good idea to shake it out and rise off any loose dirt with cold water. Do this as soon as possible to remove most of the dirt, dust, and other gunk. This one easy step, similar to a laundry pre-wash, will prepare the cloth for the washing machine and keep it working at its best for you. Now, onto the washing machine.

First, if your microfiber cloth has a care label, refer to and follow their instructions. If not, follow these steps. Preparing your microfiber cloths before washing them, especially in the washing machine, is important. Just like you would with other loads of laundry, separate them and only wash microfiber with microfiber. Mixing them with cotton clothes and fabrics that tend to shed and other materials could make the microfibers pick up lint, which will ruin their effectiveness. You should also separate microfiber cloths that you use for greasy and filthy jobs from those used for everyday dusting, dishes, and window washing. For example, separate the ones you use to wash your car and clean the garage from the ones you use for everyday cleaning inside the house.

Washing Microfiber Cloths: Time, Temperature & Detergent

Handwashing is a great option for how to wash microfiber towels, especially if they aren't very dirty, or you only have a few to wash. Handwashing will save you time and money, too. Use cool to warm water and just a small amount of gentle and fragrance-free laundry detergent. Simply rub the cloths together with your hands and rinse them thoroughly under cold water. Allow them to air dry, and they will be good to go for the next cleaning project.

Machine washing is another option for larger loads and dirtier microfiber cloths when you follow these guidelines. Set the machine to a gentle or delicate cycle and only use cold or warm water. Avoid hot water, any steam, and high spin features that could shrink and ruin the fibers. Less is more when it comes to laundry detergent and soap. A small amount of gentle, fragrance-free laundry detergent is recommended. Don't use powdered detergent because it could leave a damaging residue on the special microfibers that will ruin them. Never use bleach, additives, or fabric softeners, which could also damage and ruin the fibers. If your microfiber cloth stinks with a nose-turning odor, add a tablespoon of distilled white vinegar to the washing machine. White vinegar is a natural cleaner and deodorizer and safe for microfiber products.

Drying Your Microfiber Cloths: Air Dry For Best Results

After your microfiber cloths are clean as a whistle, the next step is to dry them. Air drying is the best way to keep them absorbent. Separate each one and lay them flat on a clean surface. You can also hang them on a hanger or clothesline. If you prefer to use your dryer, first clean out the lint trap from previous loads to prevent any lint from adhering to the microfibers. Dry separately from other clothing and use the lowest heat setting. Never add dryer sheets or dryer balls. It is important to note that you should never iron microfibers, even if they get wrinkly. Fold and store in a clean, dry drawer, pantry, or cabinet.