What are microfiber rags — and does my company need them?
People who use microfiber love microfiber. These modern cleaning rags may look like a traditional woven fabric, but the fibers are remarkably thin — thinner than a human hair. Hence the name: microfiber.
Because of the microscopic size of the rag’s fibers, many more fibers will fit into each square inch of fabric. This multitude of fibers creates a more multidimensional (and more effective) cleaning surface. Plus, the fibers are usually made of nylon and polyester, making microfiber more durable and longer lasting.
Nothing else on the market has matched microfiber’s performance. So what’s the catch? Why don’t all companies use microfiber for all cleaning projects?
Most of the time, it’s the cost. Microfiber rags cost more to produce so they cost more for companies to stock. Unless a company must have microfiber — think high-end furniture or electronic applications — stocking traditional cotton, or even recycled rags, saves money.
So, if you’re considering making the jump to microfiber for some of your business’s applications, the question to ask is this: Does my staff really need microfiber? The following information can help you decide.
7 Benefits of Microfiber Cleaning Rags
Microfiber rags and towels clean better and dry faster than other wiping rags. Here are some reasons why:
Softness
Microfiber rags feel softer than other types of cleaning rags. Because of this, microfiber is safe for delicate and smooth surfaces. If you’re cleaning or polishing a surface that must maintain its appearance, microfiber will be worth the investment.
Absorbency
With so many fibers creating more surface area, microfiber rags can absorb more when you’re cleaning liquid spills. Higher absorbency allows fewer rags for the same job. Cleaning applications that need faster results may prefer microfiber.
Durability
These rags’ synthetic fibers last longer than cotton and other natural materials. Microfiber can withstand more washing and drying cycles than most other types of rags. They last longer.
Faster Drying
Microfiber towels can also dry out faster than other materials because each fiber holds a smaller amount of moisture.
More Thorough Cleaning
Microfiber’s large number of fibers per square inch creates more cleaning power, especially for porous or uneven surfaces.
Lack of Lint
Unlike cotton towels and rags, microfiber — with its tiny, synthetic fibers — won’t produce much, if any, lint. That’s one reason electronics makers and high-end craftspeople insist on using microfiber.
Eco-Friendliness
The ecological impact of different types of cleaning rags depends a lot on how you use them. Microfiber includes synthetic materials which are less environmentally friendly than natural products like cotton. However, since they last longer and perform better, you’ll keep microfiber longer which has a positive environmental impact.
Best Uses for Microfiber Towels and Rags
It’s true that not every business needs the best cleaning rags. But some do, including:
Car Washes
Car washes need soft, efficient cleaning rags to avoid damaging a customer’s paint job. Microfiber is a must for detailers who need to protect a car’s finish while also getting it clean.
Furniture Builders
High-end furniture builders, and companies that restore or refinish furniture, often use microfiber cloth to protect their products throughout the process of building or restoring.
High-End Cleaning Services
Higher end hotels and cleaning services that uphold exacting standards like to keep microfiber rags on board their cleaning carts. Microfiber can clean more thoroughly without damaging tile or marble.
Glass Cleaners
Glass cleaners who can avoid leaving streaks and lint on the glass can work faster and more effectively. That’s why they’re usually willing to pay more for microfiber.
Electronics / IT Services
When cleaning near electronics, releasing lint in the air can become a huge problem. Microfiber creates less lint than other types of cleaning rags. Plus, because of its natural scouring power, microfiber can clean some surfaces without cleaning products.
General Uses
Many cleaners like to keep microfiber cloths nearby to help with a variety of everyday needs:
- Drying up spills: Their high absorbency makes microfiber a go-to rag for containing big spills quickly
- Maintaining surfaces: Using a dry microfiber cloth on recently cleaned countertops and other surfaces will keep the area clean
- Dusting: Microfiber can dust surfaces without requiring chemicals
How to Care for Your Microfiber Rags
They’re a bigger investment, but microfiber rags can also last a lot longer, especially when you take good care of them by:
- Washing them: Regular washing removes dirt you can’t see that can get stuck between the fibers. This helps rags perform well for a lot longer, especially when they’re washed alone and in warm water
- Using less water: Microfiber can be effective even without water, but stubborn messes will require moisture. When this happens, avoid soaking the cloth in water. A little moisture goes a long way
- Avoiding chemicals: When possible, use microfiber without cleaning products
- Use the colors: Microfiber rag orders usually arrive in a variety of bright colors. Assigning different colors for different uses can help extend your rags’ useful life
Buying Microfiber in Bulk Saves Money
Buying microfiber in bulk lowers the price per rag, making it more cost-effective for your business to have the best cleaning rags on the market.
All Rags specializes in wholesale bulk orders, and we specialize in providing the best customer service in the market.
- Tags: microfiber
- Brad Grossman