How to Wash Microfiber Towels So They Stay Super Absorbent

There’s only one type of cleaning cloth you’ll ever need: microfiber. Microfiber towels outperform all other fabrics in absorbency, ability to pick up dust, durability and softness (no streaks or scratches!). Really, you can clean almost everything with microfiber.

But when it comes time to wash your microfiber cleaning cloths, throwing them in with the rest of the laundry is a big no-no! Here’s how to wash microfiber towels the right way, ensuring they never lose their effectiveness.

Can You Wash Microfiber Towels?

Yes! Not washing your cleaning rags is one of those cleaning mistakes that can actually make your home dirtier.

Microfiber towels will pick up all sorts of bacteria, dust, grease and grime while you clean, so washing your towels after each use is essential. If you care for them correctly, your microfiber cloths should last for years without losing any absorbency or softness.

The Best Way to Wash Microfiber Towels

Microfiber is a synthetic material made up of millions of tiny fibers (hence the “micro”), usually polyester or nylon. Washing microfiber is not complicated, but there are a few important things to keep in mind. Here’s how to clean microfiber towels correctly:

• Wash microfiber separately from other fabrics. Microfiber is a magnet for lint, so it can collect lint and fibers from other fabrics in the wash.
• Do not use fabric softener or bleach. Fabric softener will clog up the fibers and bleach will cause erosion.
• Wash with cold or warm water and mild detergent.
• If your microfiber cloths have an odor, add one tablespoon of vinegar to the wash cycle.
• Lay flat or hang to dry. Do not put microfiber cloths in the dryer. Heat can shrink and damage microfiber.

How Often Should You Wash Microfiber Towels?

Wash your microfiber towels every time you use them. Microfiber is durable and can withstand hundreds of washes. As an exception, if you’re using a microfiber cloth for one purpose like polishing silver or shining up your stainless steel fridge, you can use it a few times before washing.