Different Types of Microfiber Cloths

What Is Microfiber?

First, let’s look at what microfiber is. Microfiber is defined as any fiber that is 1 denier or less (denier is a measurement of fineness equal to a unit of fiber weighing one gram for each 9000 meters). To put that into perspective, microfiber is approximately 1/100th the diameter of a human hair and 1/20th the diameter of a strand of silk. There are approximately 200,000 fibers in one square inch of a typical microfiber towel. High Quality microfiber used for cleaning is often 0.5 denier or smaller. That creates a lot of surface area in which to absorb liquid or hold dust and dirt.

In cleaning products microfiber is a blend of polyester and polyamide (nylon). In higher quality cleaning textiles the fiber is split during the manufacturing process to produce spaces in each fiber. If you were to look at a cross section of split microfiber it would look like an asterisk. It’s the split fiber working in conjunction with the space between them that do the work. They pick up and hold the dust and dirt, and absorb liquid. Lower quality microfiber cleaning products may not be split (neither is microfiber clothing or furniture because you don’t want them to be absorbent).

Are there different types of microfiber cloths? Of course! Microfiber is a tool for cleaning and like any task, cleaning is easier when you’re using the right tools. Whether you’re scrubbing heavy soil areas like bathrooms or kitchens, or dusting delicate keepsakes, there’s a type of microfiber designed for that task.

Types of Microfiber Cloths For Cleaning

We're frequently asked "Do I need different types of microfiber for different surfaces?" The answer is a bit complex. On one hand, different types of microfiber aren't necessary but neither is a chainsaw when you have an old fashioned manual saw. Obviously, the chainsaw is going to help you get through that tree more efficiently but a handsaw will work too. Let's talk discuss different types of microfiber and how these specialty tools can help you complete your cleaning projects more efficiently.

person wiping chess board with microfiber towel

All Purpose Cleaning

All Purpose and Multi-Surface Cloths are generally what comes to mind when you think of a microfiber towel. Just like the name indicates, they’re good for all purposes and safe for any surface. They have a traditional terry type weave and plenty of surface area for dry dusting, wiping up spills, and general cleaning.

Glass

Microfiber glass cloths are a knit microfiber product. They are specifically designed for removing streaks and smudges from smooth, reflective surfaces like mirrors, windows, electronic screens, even stainless steel. They’re generally used as a drying cloth after the surface has been cleaned to provide a shine like brand-new.

woman using microfiber towel to clean cooker surface

Textured Cloths

Microfiber cloths with a textured weave, like a waffle towel, provide extra power for tasks like scrubbing or drying. For scrubbing, the uneven pattern in the weave help create more friction without damaging a surface so you use less time and energy cleaning. For drying, the high-low construction allows liquid to be picked up in the higher sections and then it wicks away to the lower sections which leaves a dryer surface of the towel.

man wiping car with microfiber car towel

Polishing

Polishing cloths have a weave with a longer knap that is cut and has a higher pile than an all-purpose terry weave cloth. Polishing cloths are made with a coral fleece microfiber for an ultra-plush and soft feel and look. They’re designed for applying and removing polishes on delicate surfaces like cars and metal. They're excellent for keeping jewelry and silver looking their best.

How To Choose The Right Microfiber Cloth

The key to choosing the right microfiber cloth is to match the right tool to the task. Before you go out and buy just any microfiber cloth make sure it's high quality and if you are interested in trying out a variety of microfiber cloths, check out our Variety Pack Of Microfiber Towels!

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What are the benefits to using microfiber?

Microfiber is superior to cotton when it comes to cleaning. A single microfiber is much smaller than a single strand of cotton, thus able to pick up more dirt, dust, debris, and even germs. It's also more absorbent than cotton. Because it lasts longer than cotton and stays effective after hundreds of launderings it can even save you money. Microfiber cleans great on it's own so all you need is water to effectively clean surfaces, you won't need to buy as many cleaning chemicals. It's also longer lasting,

What makes a high quality microfiber towel?

1. It will feel grippy when you run your hand across it. That means it will effectively pickup dust and dirt
2. It will "suck up" spills rather than just push them along the surface
3. Make sure it is thick by stretching the towel while holding it up to the sun. If you can see through it really easily like a cheesecloth, it's not a thick microfiber towel and probably won't absorb well or last long
4. Make sure your towel is 80/20 or 70/30 polyester to polyamide blend. These are the most popular blends for those who use microfiber professionally

How to Wash Microfiber Towels

Three things to remember when washing microfiber towels:

- Max heat 140° F on tumble dry. Microfiber is made of synthetic materials that can melt under extreme heat
- No Fabric Softener! It clogs the open spaces in the microfiber, making the fabric less effective
- Only wash microfiber with other microfiber or non-linting synthetics

Written by

Em Rey

Content Contributor at

Microfiber Wholesale

Em is an experienced content writer and strategist, creating engaging and informative content for lifestyle, home, and beauty publications over the past eight years.

Her passion for eco-friendly cleaning aligns with the growing demand for sustainable solutions, and she’s a strong advocate for microfiber products due to their efficiency and environmental benefits.

Em’s in-depth knowledge of the cleaning industry and commitment to promoting green initiatives make her an ideal partner for crafting content that resonates with professional cleaners.

When she’s not creating content, you'll find her with a toddler in tow either outdoors, somewhere near water, or baking.