Microfiber cloths are practical and effective, so it's no wonder they have become increasingly popular among homeowners through the years—you, too, may have a cloth or two in your cleaning stash.

However, do you really know what makes them so helpful and beneficial for your cleaning? Are microfiber cloths that good, or is it one of those long-perpetuated internet myths? Here you'll find the answer to those questions and more!

Why is microfiber good for cleaning?

The cleaning prowess of these magnificent rags is directly linked to how microfiber is made. So, let's take a moment to learn a few things about it.

Ultra-thin microscopic strands

Microfiber is composed of tiny fiber strands made from a polyester and nylon blend, and it is several times thinner than a single human hair. Although not noticeable at first sight, this ultra-thin property makes microfiber a superior tool for dirt removal because it can penetrate cracks and crevices that cotton cloths or paper towels cannot reach.

Millions of fibers

The microfibers' extreme thinness results in a higher strand count than other fabrics. Have you ever heard that microfiber cloths attract dust like magnets? That's because more fibers create a stronger static charge that captures dust instead of just scattering it around when dry wiping any surface.

That's not all! Adding just a small amount of water strengthens their dirt-attraction properties a ton, as the microfibers' increased surface area means particles have many more places to stick to.

Their star-shaped form

Microfibers have a uniform and unique star-shaped form, opposite to the irregular (and smoothish) structure and varying sizes of cotton strands. This shape creates crevices within the individual strands that work as a trap for tiny particles, thus making them better for picking up dirt.

The fibers' star shape, combined with their larger surface area, also lets them absorb up to seven to eight times their weight in liquid—making your microfiber rags a lifesaver when you need to clean a spill!

Other benefits of cleaning with microfiber cloths

Besides doing a superb job dealing with dirt and grime, microfiber cloths have more advantages that make them stand out against other cleaning rags. Check them out.

Benefit #1. Microfiber cloths save energy

Two main things make microfiber cloths more convenient for energy saving. First, they are stain resistant, which means dirt won't cling hard to them. So, you can easily wash them by hand or in a quick, delicate cycle instead of using a full normal one in the washing machine.

Second, microfibers dry quicker than most fabrics, so putting them under the sun for around 15 minutes is enough to dry them. That way, you won't need to use the dryer, saving you a few bucks—very high temperatures could damage and render the cloths useless!

Benefit #2. Microfiber cloths are a complete cleaning package

As mentioned, microfiber is perfect for trapping small particles, bacteria, and dust. However, it also helps in more ways than just cleaning counters and mopping floors.

Disinfecting, polishing, and dry and wet scrubbing are just a few more chores you can do flawlessly with them. This means you can replace any other rags (cotton, knit, and disposable), save space, and not worry about restocking soon.

Benefit #3. Microfiber lasts longer

Microfibers' synthetic nature makes them inherently more durable than your other cleaning rags. While common fabric cloths last between 100 and 250 uses, a microfiber treated properly (not exposing them to too hot temperatures, for example) can last up to 500 uses. Of course, you'll save money in the process!

Benefit #4. Effective at reducing bacteria

Microfiber tools have been proven more effective in reducing the number of bacteria than most fabrics. In a comparative study at the University of California, Davis Medical Center, a cotton-loop mop was set against a microfiber mop to test their effectiveness.

While the cotton-loop mop reduced bacteria on the floors by only 30%, the microfiber mop achieved an impressive reduction of 99%. These results clearly demonstrate that microfiber reigns supreme when it comes to fighting bacteria.

Benefit #5. Uses less amount of chemicals and water

A study by the University of Massachusetts Lowell found that using microfiber tools requires less water and chemicals than traditional ones. This means you don't need to wring out your microfiber cloths (or mops) as often as other fabrics.

In short, when you use a microfiber cloth, you can clean more efficiently and effortlessly, and you'll save more money and resources in the long term as if you were using common rags.

Tips to take even more advantage of your microfiber rags

From proper care to versatile applications, these tips will help you make the most out of your microfiber cloths!

Tip #1. Avoid using too much cleaning solution

Microfiber rags do not need you to drench them in a cleaning solution to do an effective job. However, there's another reason to be moderate with the chemicals: you may reduce your cloth cleaning effectiveness.

Too much cleaning solution can fill and clog the microscopic gaps within the single threads that help microfibers easily gather dust, hindering their cleaning capabilities. Remember this the next time you use your microfiber rags to keep them in top shape.

Tip #2. Use different types of microfiber cloths for various scenarios

All kinds of microfibers work great for cleaning. However, some are more effective than others, depending on the scenario. Here are some examples so you can use your microfiber cloths even more effectively:

• Plush or deep fibers. Typically the best choice for extremely delicate tasks like wiping or polishing clear coats.
• Short or looped fibers. They provide superior scrubbing and cleaning power.
• Waffle weaves. These microfiber cloths offer exceptional absorbency gram for gram.
• Flat weave towels. Ideal for non-delicate surfaces where streak-free performance is essential.

Tip #3. Wash your microfiber cloths in separate loads

Always keep your dirtiest towels (such as grease-filled ones) separate from lightly-soiled ones during washing and drying to prevent cross-contamination. Also, don't mix microfiber rags with other fabrics, as lint will get stuck in the fibers, affecting their performance.

Tip #4. Don't use bleach

Bleach is an effective but harsh chemical that will cause irreversible damage to your delicate microfiber cloths. Instead, use a dedicated microfiber detergent, or any mild dye, scent-free liquid laundry soap—no powders or granulated!

Tip #5. Never wash them with hot water

Although not visible to the naked eye, high temperatures can affect your microfiber rags on a microscopic level, thus, rendering them unusable. Wash them in cold water (or warm, at best, for stained ones) to avoid damage.

Forget about the wear and tear, and let us do the cleaning!

At Rain City Maids, we're fully committed to providing you the best cleaning services. That means our expert cleaners use top-of-the-line cleaning products and tools—like microfiber cloths—to leave your home spotless. Get your instant price now!