Finding the correct method to clean and maintain the quality of these specialized towels effectively can be a struggle. If you don’t know how to wash microfiber towels properly, your towels might lose their essential cleaning properties.
However, washing microfiber towels is relatively easy. You have to keep a few things in mind. Never use microfiber towels with other clothes, don’t use harsh detergents and chemicals, don’t use bleach, and use a light wash cycle.
In this blog, I will delve into the details of washing microfiber towels in the washing machine, providing you with a comprehensive guide that will help you achieve the best results. I will also discuss how you can wash a microfiber towel with your hand. On top of that, I will discuss some relevant topics as well. So let’s get started!
How To Wash Microfiber Towels In The Washing Machine? Step By Step
Microfiber towels are a popular and versatile cleaning tool used in many households. Due to their unique composition, they require special care regarding washing. Let’s take a look at how you should wash microfiber towels in the washing machine:
Step 1: Group Microfiber Towels And Clothes Together
Microfiber towels tend to attract lint, so it is best to avoid washing them with garments or towels made of natural fibers like cotton.
Doing so will also prevent the transfer of lint and dust. I also separate slightly dirty towels from extremely dirty ones so the former doesn’t get extra dirt.
Step 2: Shake Excess Dirt
If your towels have excess dirt, shaking them off is a good idea. Remember, the less dirty clothes you put in the washing machine, the better.
So before washing, take your microfiber towels outside, and shake them well to ensure all the excess dirt gets off. You can also do it on the sink or trash can. If your towels are so dirty that shaking them won’t do it, presoak them before putting them in the washer.
Step 3: Deal With Stains
Same deal here, like extra dirt; if your microfiber towels have stubborn stains, it’s good to deal with them before putting them in the washer. You can use a stain remover.
You can also grab some extra detergent, rub them on the stain and rinse them before putting them in the washing machine.
Step 5: Add Detergent And Vinegar
I don’t use detergents containing perfumes or chemicals. Also, it would be best not to use fabric softener when washing your towels. Fabric softeners cause buildup on towels and reduce their absorbency.
Using too much detergent causes the same. Just use the right amount of plain detergent, and don’t use fabric softeners to get clean, fluffy towels. And one more thing, if your towels are too smelly, add about a tablespoon of white vinegar to the towels before washing.
Step 6: Select Temperature And Run The Wash Cycle
Warm water is your friend if your towels are too dirty, even after shaking off the extra dirt. Warm water is the best for washing dirty towels. You can use cold or normal-temperature water if your towels are mildly dirty. The ideal temperature to wash towels is 40 to 60 degrees Celsius.
Step 7: Complete The Wash And Dry The Towels
Wash in a short cycle because microfiber towels dry quickly. Stop the washer at the halfway point of the agitation cycle. Then let the towels soak for 20 minutes, resume the cycle, and finish it. After washing, dry the towels in natural air.
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How To Wash Microfiber Towels With Hand
Your washing machine may not always be there for you. Also, lightly soiled towels don’t need machine wash. Here is how to wash microfiber towels by hand:
Step 1: Remove Excess Dirt
Same thing here; remove excess dirt before washing. As you wash by hand and not by machine, it’s even more critical. I usually soak the towels for 20 to 30 minutes before washing.
Step 2: Fill A Sink Or Bucket With Water And Add Detergent And Vinegar
You will need something to wash the towels in. I usually wash the towels in a large bucket as bowls, or the sink in my house isn’t big enough to clean all the towels. You can use any if it suits you.
Step 3: Wash And Rinse The Towels
Here, you’ll have to do the machine part by yourself. Scrub the microfiber towels by hand to effectively eliminate dirt and other particles. Finish off with a final brisk scrub for optimal results.
Step 4: Rinse And Squeeze Excess Water
After washing, rinse the towels under running tap water to remove all the detergent residues. Then squeeze gently to get rid of extra water.
Read Also:-Can You Wash Jeans With Towels?
Why Do Microfiber Fabrics Require Extra Care When Washing?
Microfiber cloths and towels require extra care when washing. Many people know this, but they don’t know why. To understand this, you’ll have to know how they function. Unlike conventional cotton or nylon clothes, microfiber towels comprise thousands of tiny fibers, with one square inch of microfiber material containing an impressive 200,000 fibers.
These tiny threads work together to effectively gather and retain dirt, dust, and liquid during cleaning. Apart from the multitude of strands, another critical factor that enhances the absorbency of these cloths is the positive charge of their fibers.
As dirt and dust on surfaces in your home carry a negative charge, they are irresistibly drawn to the cloth like a magnet. The microfibers trap and hold onto the dust and debris until you wash them.
So as they are unique, that’s why they require special care when washing. However, the special care is simple; use additive-free detergent, and vinegar, wash lightly, and dry in natural air.
How To Dry Microfiber Towels?
The best way to dry microfiber towels is to dry them outside, in natural air and sun. It would be best if you remembered one important thing is that washing microfiber towels properly isn’t enough; drying them properly is equally important.
However, if you live in an area where it’s difficult to dry the towels outside, you can use a tumble dryer with some precautions; here are those:
- Clean the lint trap rigorously. It will prevent the microfiber from gathering extra lint.
- to prevent gathering lint further, throw your towels in the dryer separately. Avoid drying them with other clothes.
- always use a low heat setting to avoid damaging the fibers.
- don’t use a dryer sheet.
- don’t leave your towels in the dryer. Once the drying cycle is over, promptly remove the microfiber cloths from the dryer.
- Never iron your microfiber towels. It will damage the fibers.
How To Store Microfiber Towels?
Storing microfiber towels properly is essential to retain their properties. Here is how to store microfiber towels the right way:
- Fold, Don’t Ball
When storing microfiber towels, folding is the way to go. Avoid balling or crumpling them, as this can damage the delicate fibers.
Instead, neatly fold the towels into compact squares or rectangles. It not only saves space but also prevents unnecessary wear and tear.
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Avoid Mixing with Other Fabrics
Microfiber towels have a unique composition that allows them to perform exceptionally well. To preserve their qualities, it is best to store them separately from other fabrics, especially those prone to shedding lint.
Lint can cling to microfiber towels, reducing their effectiveness and leaving behind unwanted fibers. Please keep them in a designated storage area or drawer where they are protected from contact with other fabrics.
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Use Breathable Containers
Opt for breathable storage containers, such as plastic bins with ventilation holes or fabric bags, to store your microfiber towels.
Avoid airtight containers that can trap moisture, as this can lead to mold or mildew growth. The goal is to allow air circulation while protecting the towels from dust and dirt.
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Label and Rotate
Labeling them accordingly can be helpful if you have multiple microfiber towels with different purposes. Whether for cleaning, drying, or detailing, clearly marking each towel will save you time and ensure you use them for their intended purpose.
Additionally, consider rotating your towels regularly to prevent anyone’s towel from wearing out faster than the others.
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Keep Away from Heat and Sunlight
Exposure to extreme heat or prolonged sunlight can damage microfiber towels. Avoid storing them near radiators, water heaters, or in direct sunlight.
High temperatures can cause the fibers to melt or become less effective over time. Instead, choose a cool, dry storage location away from direct heat sources.
Also read:- How To Fix A Towel Rack That Is Loose? A Detailed Guide
How To Properly Maintain Microfiber Towels?
Now that we are done washing and drying, it’s time to learn how to maintain microfiber towels properly. Let’s have a look:
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Opt For Water Over Harsh Chemicals
Microfiber towels work best when used with just water. Avoid using chemical-based cleaning products as they can be too harsh and may damage the fibers.
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Shake And Rinse Instead Of Frequent Washing
Too frequent washing will affect the towels’ cleaning efficiency. Instead, please give them a good shake after every use to remove loose debris, then move on to the next thing you will clean. After the cleaning session, rinse the towel in the sink to maintain cleanliness.
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Separate And Store Properly
To ensure the longevity of your microfiber towels, keep them separate from other towels and laundry. It will prevent lint transfer and ensure that they stay in optimal condition.
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Trim If You Need
Over time, microfiber towels start to show signs of wear, with fraying edges being one of them. If you notice any loose threads, trim them off for a neater appearance. However, when your microfiber cloth develops threadbare patches, it indicates it’s time to retire it and replace it with a fresh one.
Dos And Don’ts Of Washing Microfiber Towels
You must’ve already understood proper care of microfiber towels lies in washing, drying, storing, and properly maintaining.
There are some things you should do and some things you should never do when washing microfiber towels. Let’s take a look:
Do
- Wash microfiber towels separately from other clothes.
- Use warm or cold water. It depends on how dirty the towels are.
- Use additive and fragrance-free detergent.
- Read the care tag before washing the towels. There might be special instructions regarding washing.
- Dry in natural air.
- Store your microfiber towels in one place, separate from other clothes.
Don’t
- Don’t Use fabric softener.
- Don’t use bleach.
- Avoid using strong cleaning products.
- Don’t wash your towels after every use.
- Never use boiling water to wash microfiber towels.
- Do not use detergent if washing lightly soiled clothes by hand.
- Do not tumble dry in high heat.
- Never use dryer sheets.
- Don’t iron microfiber towels.
FAQ
The following faqs will enhance your microfiber towel washing knowledge furthermore. Let’s take a look:
How Can I Remove Lint From Microfiber Towels?
To remove lint from microfiber towels, use a lint roller or gently brush them to lift the lint away.
Can you reuse microfiber towels?
Yes, microfiber towels are reusable. They are designed to be durable and can be used multiple times before needing replacement.
Should microfiber cloths be washed separately?
It’s advisable to wash microfiber cloths separately to prevent lint transfer and maintain their cleaning effectiveness.
How Will I Know When To Replace My Microfiber Towel?
Consider replacing your microfiber towel when it becomes worn, frayed, or loses its absorbency and cleaning performance over time.
Can You Dry Microfiber Clothes In The Dryer?
Microfiber cloths can be dried in the dryer, but use a low heat setting to prevent potential damage from excessive heat.
What Temperature Should You Wash Microfiber Cloths In?
It’s best to wash microfiber cloths in cold or warm water, avoiding hot water as it may cause damage to the fibers.
How To Remove Stains From Microfiber Towels?
To remove stains from microfiber towels, pretreat stained areas with a mild detergent or stain remover, gently scrub, and then wash as usual.
How Often Should You Wash Microfiber Towels?
The frequency of washing microfiber towels depends on usage and dirtiness. Generally, washing them every few uses or when visibly soiled is recommended.
Conclusion
Washing microfiber towels in a washing machine is a simple and effective way to keep them clean and maintain their absorbency and softness. Remember to separate your microfiber towels from other fabrics, use a gentle detergent, avoid fabric softeners or bleach, and always wash them on a low heat setting. Additionally, properly drying your microfiber towels by air-drying or using a low heat setting in the dryer will help preserve their quality and prolong their lifespan. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy using your microfiber towels for a long time.
Also read:- Should You Use Fabric Softener On Towels? An In-depth Discussion
