Microfiber towels are amazing cleaning tools and heavy-duty…with the proper care. After much wiping and dusting, they might not do the job that well anymore and even start to smell. Do you have to throw them out? Not at all! Here’s how to clean microfiber cloths effectively.
The easier way: Use the washing machine
Fortunately, washing your microfiber cloths isn’t that different from other kinds of laundry, and it’s quite faster. However, there are things you can’t overlook, or you’ll have a mess on your hands. Follow these steps:
Step #1: Separate the cloth from other rags
Microfiber can be easily ruined if you toss it into the washing machine with other types of fabrics. So, separate the microfiber cloths from the rest of the fabric to avoid small debris and lint clinging onto the rags.
Step #2: Give the rags a good shake
Since microfiber is an effective dirt trap, it’s recommended that you shake any residual dirt off the fabric. Not only will the rags come out clear of debris, but you will also avoid any obstructions or buildup inside your washing machine.
Step #3: Add the detergent
While preparing the laundry load, make sure you use fragrance-free detergent so no chemicals meddle with the properties of the cloths. Also, stay away from using fabric softener—you might love the smell and the softness, but in the case of microfiber, the coating from the product can saturate and ruin the fabric!
Pro-tip: If you’re dealing with heavy stains, take this moment to pretreat them. Just add a little detergent to the stains before throwing the cloth into the machine.
Optional: Pour white vinegar on the cloths
If your microfiber cloths are long past due for deodorizing, rest assured that white vinegar will remove the smell. This cheap household cleaner cuts through most smells and also enhances the washing process. So, add a tablespoon of vinegar to the load.
Step #4: Set the right cycle and temperature
Microfibers seem extremely resistant, but there’s a limit. High heat will melt the fibers and render the cloths useless. To avoid messing up the cloths, set a gentle cycle with cold water and wait for the machine to do its job.
Step #5: Dry the microfiber cloths
You can either air dry on a clean surface or use a low heat setting on the dryer. However, avoid using dryer sheets because the coating will stick to the microfiber. Also, don’t forget to clean the lint trap on your dryer beforehand.
How to hand-wash microfiber cloths
Although it’s easier to throw your microfiber cloths into the washing machine, you might prefer to hand wash them and make sure they are dirt and stain-free. Also, if you have just a couple of microfiber rags on rotation, you can easily avoid an unnecessary washing cycle. So, try the following:
- Remove all the debris and dirt by shaking the cloths well.
- Put cold water inside a container big enough for the cloths. The sink will also do.
- If the cloths are stained, add a little less laundry detergent than you would use in a washing machine load. If they’re lightly soiled, you can skip this step.
- Throw the cloths inside, scrub them hard, and let them soak for fifteen minutes. Once ready, scrub them again.
- Rinse the cloths with cold water and wring any excess. Now all that’s left to do is to dry.
- Hang the rags or rest them in a ventilated area. Alternately, if you are using the dryer, make sure not to add dryer sheets, that the lint trap is cleared, and use a low-heat setting.
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