Microfiber cloths have become the cleaning sensation of the 21st century. Solving a multitude of problems, they have now become an essential product in every home, office and factory, and a key component in every professional cleaner’s toolkit. They deliver many advantages, including the key ability to lift dirt easily and trap dust particles, however small, without the need for potentially dangerous cleaning chemicals, and deliver a streak-free cleaning experience. So what exactly makes microfiber cloths so effective?

What factors do you need to take into consideration when choosing the right type of cloth, and do you need to look after them or clean them in a special way to ensure they continue to deliver outstanding results for as long as possible?

This article is intended to be a fully comprehensive guide which covers everything you will ever need to know about microfibre cloths, what they are made of, the best ways to use them and indeed how to maintain them for both maximum life and performance. At Davis & Moore, we are one of the world’s leading manufacturers of microfibre cloths. We have an encyclopedic knowledge of these types of cloths, and with this guide, we hope to impart the most essential parts of that knowledge to you, our reader.

What Are Microfibre Cleaning Cloths?

Microfiber cloths are a relatively new product manufactured from extremely fine synthetic materials, which in the majority of cases are a blend of polyester and polyamide (Nylon). The manufacturing process splits the fibres into tiny strands, which are remarkably often 100 times thinner than a strand of human hair. The aim of this process is to create a dense cloth which, in turn, delivers exceptional cleaning power.

Interestingly, in order to qualify as “Microfibre”, the fibres must be finer than one denier, which means that they must weigh less than one gram per 9000 metres of fibre – quite the manufacturing feat. Another key benefit of this manufacturing process is that the cloths can deliver superior cleaning power, because the surface area is so much larger than a typical cloth, which then enables the cloth to grab and hold onto any debris rather than simply moving it around whatever surface you are attempting to clean.

A Davis & Moore microfibres cloth delivers four significant benefits:

  • They attract dust like a magnet.
  • They remove grease without chemicals.
  • They absorb many times their own weight in liquid.
  • They leave surfaces clean and streak-free.

Microfibre’s effectiveness comes down to two key features: split fibres and static charge.

How Microfibre Works

1. Split Fibre Technology

When we manufacture our premium quality microfibre cloths, the process involves a splitting process that separates the fibres into even thinner strands. These split fibres then create micro-pockets that:

  • Lift dirt and grime from surfaces.
  • Trap particles inside the cloth.
  • Produce superior scrubbing power without scratching.

This is one of the key differences between a premium microfibre cloth and a cheaper microfibre cloth. Because the splitting process is not to the same standard, the effectiveness of an inferior microfibre cloth is reduced, delivering sub-par results.

2. Static Attraction

Another secret of the success of microfibre cloths is that when they are dry, the microfibre cloth generates a small static charge, similar to how your hair is attracted to a rubbed balloon. This charge acts almost like a magnet to dust and loose debris, attracting the dust to it. This makes a microfibre cloth the perfect solution for cleaning:

  • TV screens
  • Computer monitors
  • Shelving
  • Window blinds
  • Hard-to-reach corners

Although not quite as effective when damp, because the effect of the static charge is reduced, the split fibres will still remove dirt through the mechanical cleaning action.

3. Incredible Absorption

Because the fibres in a microfiber cloth are so small and densely packed, they have a huge capacity for absorption; typically, this figure is around seven times their weight in liquid. This makes them ideal for cleaning up spills, drying surfaces, or polishing.

What Are The Different Types of Microfibre Cloths

It is a critical part of your microfibre cloth education that you understand that not all microfibre cloths are identical. The manufacturing process is altered in a number of ways to deliver different types of cloths for different purposes. The weave may vary, or the grams per square metre and the fibre blend, which combine to make completely different products essentially.

Here are the most common types that we manufacture and sell at Davis & Moore:

1. General-Purpose Microfibre Cloths

  • Medium-pile
  • Around 200–300 GSM
  • Suitable for most everyday cleaning

These are the most common cloths people think of when picturing microfibre cleaning cloths. They are typically colourful, often sold in multi-packs and used for dusting, wiping surfaces, and regular cleaning tasks.

2. Glass and Window Microfibre Cloths

Because they are specifically manufactured for the cleaning of glass products, these types of microfibre cloths feature a tight, flat weave with a low pile. As a consequence, they leave no lint or streaks on your glass. In addition to the cleaning of glass products such as windows and computer screens, they are also the cloth of choice for stainless steel appliances. Because of their design, they glide easily across sensitive surfaces like glass and stainless steel and deliver a polished finish time and time again.

3. Plush / High-Pile Microfibre Cloths

  • 350–600+ GSM
  • Ultra-soft
  • Extremely absorbent

Often used by detailers for drying cars or in applications where extra gentleness is crucial to avoid scratching delicate surfaces. These advanced microfibre cloths are often a little more expensive than the general-purpose cloths, but can be a real game-changer in the right industry.

4. Microfibre Terry Cloths

Microfibre Terry Cloths are the product you need to choose for heavy-duty type cleaning in, say, a kitchen or a bathroom. They are easily recognisable due to their unique looped design, and extremely durable and highly absorbent. If the area that needs to be cleaned accumulates grease and grime, for instance, then these are the microfibre cloths you need to invest in.

5. Microfibre Mop Pads

Of course, not every cleaning task is at waist height, and sometimes you need to clean a much larger area, such as a floor. This is when you need to invest in microfibre mop pads. A lot of modern spray mops and flat style mops now come with microfibre pads, which you attach to the mop with some type of velcro system. Due to the high absorbency of microfibres and the fact that they will also use less water to get the job done, microfibre mop pads are quickly becoming the main way commercial floor cleaning is completed.

6. Waffle Weave Cloths

As the name suggests, these cloths feature a textured weave which looks similar to a waffle, although probably not quite as tasty! They are highly absorbent and excellent for drying surfaces. The most common industry they are used in is within the automotive industry, such as for car drying or glass surfaces, where streak-free performance is non-negotiable.

What Are The Main Advantages of Using Davis & Moore Microfibre Cloths

There are a plethora of benefits that using microfiber cloths delivers over the older methods of cleaning, such as cotton cloths, paper towels or harsh chemicals, which are by no means environmentally friendly. Let’s examine those in greater detail.

1. Chemical-Free Cleaning

Depending on your viewpoint, the single biggest advantage of using a Davis & Moore microfiber cloth in your business or home is the fact that you can effectively clean using only water. The main reason why this is the case is that the fibres physically lift the dirt away from the surfaces that are being cleaned, eliminating the need for harsh chemical sprays.

This makes microfibre ideal for:

  • Allergy sufferers
  • Homes with children or pets
  • Eco-friendly cleaning routines

2. Cost-Effective

Although microfibre cloths may cost a little more upfront, with proper care, they will last much longer than traditional cleaning cloths. A high-quality microfibre cloth can withstand hundreds of washes, making it a much better investment.

3. Highly Absorbent

Microfibre’s unique structure means that it naturally soaks up spills quickly, which in turn makes it the perfect cleaning product for:

  • Kitchens
  • Bathrooms
  • Car detailing
  • Window cleaning

4. Faster, More Efficient Cleaning

Microfibre reduces cleaning time because it:

  • Requires fewer passes over a surface
  • Lifts stuck-on grime more easily
  • Reduces the need for scrubbing

The result is a more thorough clean with less effort. Additionally, if you are running a business, your cleaning staff will appreciate the benefits of these products and, as a consequence, are more likely to do a better job.

5. Lint-Free and Streak-Free Results

Because the split fibres trap dust and debris inside the cloth rather than leaving residue behind, they are perfect for the cleaning of:

  • Glass
  • Mirrors
  • Stainless steel
  • Smartphones and electronics

6. Hygienic and Antibacterial Properties

Studies show that microfibre can remove up to 99% of bacteria using only water, thanks to the mechanical action of the fibres. While admittedly it doesn’t kill bacteria like a disinfectant, it effectively removes them from surfaces.

How to Care for Microfibre Cloths To Get The Maximum Longevity From Your Investment

Although in the grand scheme of things, microfibre cloths are not especially expensive, it still makes sense to look after them in order to maximise their life span. If, for instance, you don’t follow the instructions below, your microfibre cloths could lose their absorbency, and with it their almost magical cleaning power.

1. Washing Instructions

  • Wash at 30–40°C (cold or warm water).
  • Avoid fabric softeners — they coat fibres and destroy absorbency.
  • Avoid bleach — This will damage those delicate fibres and reduce the efficiency of your cloth.
  • Use liquid detergent rather than powder, which can leave residue.
  • Wash your microfibre cloths separately from cotton, as this will prevent any lint cross-contamination.

If cloths are heavily soiled with grease, pre-soak them in warm water with a little detergent.

2. Drying

  • Air dry whenever possible.
  • If using a dryer, use low heat only.
  • Avoid dryer sheets, as they act like fabric softener.

Microfibre dries quickly, so air drying is often the best option; in fact, you can air dry overnight in the vast majority of cases.

3. Storage

Keep microfibre cloths clean and dry. Store them:

  • Folded in a clean drawer
  • In airtight boxes
  • In separate containers for different uses (kitchen, bathroom, car, etc.)

Avoid storing dirty cloths, as bacterial growth can occur.

What Are The Most Common Mistakes People Make When Using Microfibre Cloths?

Microfibre cloths are typically hard-wearing and will last you many years. However, there are some common mistakes that people can make without thinking that can damage them. Here are the most important ones and the easiest mistakes to avoid:

1. Using Fabric Softener

Fabric softener coats fibres and prevents them from gripping dirt.

2. Mixing with Lint-Producing Fabrics

Cotton lint will cling to microfibre and reduce its performance.

3. Using Too Much Heat

High heat melts the synthetic fibres, reducing absorbency.

4. Using Strong Chemicals

Microfibre works best with water. Harsh chemicals can break down the fibres over time.

5. “Overusing” the Cloth

If a cloth is saturated with dirt, it stops cleaning effectively. Rinse or swap cloths regularly during cleaning.

Hopefully, this guide has enhanced your knowledge of microfibre cloths, but if you have any further questions or want to discuss ordering some of our products, please do not hesitate to contact our friendly customer service team on 0161 848 8008.