The Complete Guide to Microfiber and Its Uses

Microfiber; you’ve heard of it many times and you’ve probably used it before without even realizing it.

But what exactly is it and why is it talk about so much? When it comes down to it, it’s simple. Microfiber towels, rags, and other products are used for various cleaning and wiping tasks.

But it’s far more than a simple towel. Microfiber is a major technological achievement that has changed the cleaning standard in many industries.

Wondering what makes microfiber so unique and what it’s used for? Keep reading to find out.

What Is Microfiber?

Microfiber is a synthetic textile manufactured for very specific uses. The reason microfiber is so special is because of how fine the material is.

They are finer than 1 denier, meaning the microfiber is finer than one of the finest, natural materials available; silk. Silk is such a coveted material because of its fineness. That’s what makes it so smooth, comfortable, and luxurious.

But because microfiber is manufactured synthetically, companies can produce ultra-fine fibers.

Microfiber wasn’t around until recently when modern technology allowed for the intricate process of splitting fibers into single filaments. Fibers can be mechanically split into fibers far smaller than human hairs.

Once woven together, different patterns create different types of cloth. If woven in a flat weave, the resulting cloth works to repel water. If woven in a looped weave, the cloth becomes ultra-absorbent, making for productive cleaning.

Why Microfiber Is so Effective

The reason microfiber is so effective at so many different tasks is due to the shape of the fibers. Looking at a cross-section of microfiber, you would notice an asterisk shape, or a star. 

This is very different from other fibers like cotton, which have a normal round shape. Round cotton fibers tend to push particles.

On the other hand, asterisk-shaped microfibers trap particles within the ridges of the fiber. This is why you see professionals in almost any space using microfiber cloths instead of standard cotton, or other synthetic materials. 

Another reason microfiber works so well is the material blend. True microfiber is made of a blend of polyester, polyamide which is a type of nylon material, and sometimes polypropylene as well. 

Ineffective cleaning cloths are commonly made up entirely of polyester, which is cheaper. But it’s not as absorbent or effective at removing debris. 

The incorporation of nylon makes microfiber much denser which makes them more absorbent.

Benefits of Microfiber

All this innovation, all this technological advancement, but what does it mean for you and me? Well unlikely many other materials you can choose from, microfiber is highly absorbent.

You can wipe up cleaning spray or spills, and the towel will still be useful. And it not only attracts water and liquids, but its positive charge also attracts dirt out of the tiniest nooks and crannies.

Due to the fineness of the fibers, it’s also able to get into much finer spaces, making for a much cleaner surface. And when you use it to wipe metal, cars, or other shiny objects, it doesn’t leave any lint behind.

Microfiber products are durable and can sustain daily use for years before wearing out. As such, they are cost-efficient. They might cost a little bit more upfront, but they last for longer than other materials. They also clean more effectively.

You might only need a few microfiber towels to complete a job, whereas other materials would require much more. That equates to savings on laundering costs. And when you do wash them, there’s no shrinking or stretching.

They are also super lightweight, so it’s easy to carry a handful around. 

What Can Microfiber be Used for?

There’s really no limit to what you can and can’t use microfiber for. If you need to wipe, clean, absorb, or otherwise make something look better, microfiber outperforms every other material. Here are a few of the most common ways it is used today.

Cleaning

You won’t find a professional cleaning company using anything but microfiber towels these days. They have become the industry standard.

Because of the density of the material, microfiber towels last much longer while cleaning. You are able to wipe down far more surface per cloth than with any other type of material.

They also absorb well, making surfaces ready to use immediately after cleaning. And when cleaning metallic or shiny surfaces, they will ensure there are no unsightly streaks or droplets left behind.

Safety and Healthcare

When it comes to cleaning hospitals, doctors’ offices, laboratories, and other specialized environments, microfiber is a must. Because nano technology products are often used to kill bacteria, viruses, and pathogens, effective and safe cleaning cloths need to be used as well.

Once specialized cleaning products have disinfected areas, killing off microorganisms, it’s important to use a cloth that can actually remove the nano-particles from surfaces.

Traveling and Outdoors

Microfiber towels have become a favorite among lightweight travelers and outdoors enthusiasts. Because of the absorption rate of microfiber, and its ability to dry quickly, it can be used effectively when traveling or camping.

Nobody wants to lug around a full-sized towel. But you often need to carry your own towels when traveling due to questionable, or nonexistent towels at your place of lodging.

They also won’t smell nearly as bad as cotton or other materials after multiple uses. You can go for a swim to freshen up while camping, use a small microfiber towel to get completely dry and hang the cloth up to dry fast. Cotton towels can take days to fully dry.

Auto Detailing

One of the most common uses for microfiber materials is automotive detailing. You’ll find every auto shop loaded with various types of microfiber cloths. Because they effectively attract and remove dirt and other particles, they clean so well.

They can also dry a vehicle without leaving streaks or lint behind. Detailers use microfiber to detail the interior of cars, finish the exterior, and work magic on windows and mirrors.

Mighty Microfiber

It’s obvious that microfiber is the most effective cleaning, wiping, and drying material available today. Sure, it might be a little more expensive than those cheap cotton towels.

But your actually getting towels that do their job; absorb and clean. So go ahead, give yourself permission to replace every towel, rag, and cloth in your home with microfiber. You’ll be glad you did.

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