Once you start using microfiber cloths, there’s no going back! Very ecological, they replace paper towels and sponges, and become a cleaning tool in their own right. To clean dirt on windows and dirt on all surfaces in the house, no more need for chemical-based detergents! Often, microfiber cloths and a little water are enough. It is therefore very economical. The secret lies in their synthetic fibers: the polyester rubs and the polyamide absorbs dirt, humidity and grease. But there is a catch: you cannot maintain your fibers willy-nilly if you want to preserve their absorption quality and effectiveness. So here’s how to wash your microfiber cloths so that they last a long time.
How to wash your microfiber cloths in the washing machine without any mess?
In general, it is advisable to wash microfiber only with microfiber fabrics as well. If you do not have enough to make a machine, it is possible to wash them with your laundry, but you will have to ensure that it is not not fluffy. Moreover, it will be necessary to avoid washing too hot which wears out the fiber prematurely. 30°C will be more than enough and 60°C will be the great maximum. Product level, you will need to avoid washing powder which becomes permanently embedded in the fabric and stains it. You can put half a dose of normal liquid detergent not containing too many dyes, solvents, bleaching agents and perfumes. The simpler the formula, the less likely it is to stick to the fibers (making them less absorbent) or damage them.
Otherwise, do not use starch or chlorine. Bleach risks damaging the fibers. It is therefore prohibited. Finally, fabric softener is not recommendedbecause it leaves a film on the laundry. When used to clean microfiber wipes, it removes their absorbent, lipophilic and electrostatic power. If you need to soften the laundry you wash them with, use white vinegar in the softener drawer of the washing machine ! It fights limescale which makes laundry rough without filling the synthetic fiber with product.
Washing microfiber wipes by hand, another possibility
If you decide to hand wash, the advice is not much different from that given previously. You will first have to shake them over the bathtub or trash can to remove dust and crumbs. Next, prepare a sink full of hot water (but not too much) with dishwashing liquid or detergent (45 to 75 ml). Soak and scrub microfiber cloths with this mixture. If necessary, Aleppo soap or ox gall soap can be used to remove grease or stains that resist washing.
And for drying, what is the right method?
For any garment, the method of drying is at least as important as the cleaning itself. And while tumble drying makes towels soft and fluffy, it is not recommended for dishcloths. In fact, the synthetic material which composes them does not support high temperatures which melt the fibers. In addition, they risk attracting all the lint into the device and therefore get everything dirty when reusing them. If you have no other choice, opt for the coolest setting and keep a close eye on the wipes during the process. The air-fluff option can be used here for a better result. If you don’t have a low heat setting, forget the dryer. Anyway, the best option when you have finished washing your microfiber cloths, it’s air drying. And of course, don’t iron them!
The microfiber cloth is not cheap. However, of all the cleaning accessories, it is the best for eco-friendly and highly efficient cleaning. With all these tips, you will know how to clean your multi-use microfiber cloth which can wipe and dust as well as degrease and scrub to keep it for a long time and make your purchase profitable.