Is it really true that you don’t have to use cleaning agents with microfibre cloths? Why can’t you use fabric softener when washing microfibre cloths? And is it true that microfibre cloths even absorb bacteria?
In the 90s, everyone who loves a clean house was suddenly talking about the microfibre cloth. A revolution: without cleaning agents you could clean everything quickly, hygienically and without streaks. And yes, once you know how those microfibre cloths work, you’ll never want anything else.
Properties of a microfibre cloth
Microfibre cloths are made from a mixture of polyester and polyamide fibres. Thanks to a special production method, the microfibres absorb an exceptional amount of moisture and dirt. Microfibres also absorb and retain bacteria, pathogens and viruses until they are washed out again in the washing machine. A microfibre cloth does not chafe and therefore does not damage smooth surfaces.
How much do good microfibre cloths cost?
A microfibre cloth contains – the word says it all – fibers. The more fibers, the better the quality, the longer the cloth will last. You can buy professional microfibre cloths online for a few euros each. Professional microfibre cloths last 300 to 500 washes.
How do you clean with a microfibre cloth?
- Wash a new microfibre cloth once before use.
- Use your ‘own’ color for each room or object. For example: red microfibre cloths for the toilet, blue for shower, bath and sink, green for the kitchen.
- For best results, use microfibre cloths dry or damp.
- Do not use the microfibre cloth in a wad, but fold the cloth 3 times before use. That way you have 16 surfaces to clean with. Once you have used all the surfaces, the cloth goes into the wash.
- Make sure you have several microfiber cloths. You can clean with one cloth for about 20 minutes, after which all surfaces of the cloth have been used.
- Since a microfibre cloth absorbs and retains both dirt and bacteria, you don’t need any cleaning agents – not even for the bathroom. If you really want to clean with cleaning agent or if there is heavy pollution, make a solution of lukewarm water and very little cleaning agent.
- With a microfibre cloth you don’t have to scrub or rub hard. The wipes work best if you make circular motions over the surface you’re cleaning.
How long does a microfibre cloth last?
A microfibre cloth that is used correctly will last hundreds of washes. Each time you use a microfiber cloth, you can clean with it for about 20 minutes. After that, all surfaces of the cloth have been used and it has to go into the wash.
Does a microfiber cloth really clean without detergent?
Yes, in principle a dry or damp microfibre cloth cleans without detergent. A microfibre cloth effortlessly absorbs moisture, dirt, grease, limescale and bacteria. If there is accumulated dirt, you can make soapy water with a low dose of cleaning agent. However, this is not necessary for daily housekeeping.
How do you wash a microfiber cloth?
Most microfibre cloths should be washed in the washing machine at 60 degrees. Always check the washing instructions as well. Do not use fabric softener when washing microfibre cloths – fabric softener reduces the effectiveness of the microfibre cloth. Also, don’t use bleach; that damages the fibers. Simply air dry the microfibre cloths, rather than in the tumble dryer.