How Often Should You Wash Microfiber Towels?

Lauren David
·4 min read

Microfiber towels are handy multi-purpose cloths for cleaning. Use them to wipe down the kitchen counter and fridge, to clean the windows, or to help tackle the bathroom. The best part is they’re reusable so that’s a bonus for the environment and for your bank account since you don’t have to keep buying one-use products for all your cleaning needs. Knowing how to keep them clean is key, otherwise, they won’t be as effective as a tool and their longevity may be at stake.

Here’s what you need to know about these reusable cloths, how to wash them, dry them, and other tips so they last as long as they’re meant to.





Meet The Experts




How Often Should You Wash Microfiber Towels

Cleaning with microfiber towels means there’s dust, dirt, and other build-up so you’re not going to want to toss these back in your cleaning bin. In fact, you'll want to make sure you put them straight into the washing machine when you’re finished cleaning. “Ideally, you want to wash your microfiber towels after every use to remove any dirt or grime build-up from cleaning,” shares Chris Willatt,  owner and founder of Alpine Maids in Denver, Colorado. “Doing this prevents you from cross-contaminating areas while cleaning.”

How To Wash Microfiber Towels

Before you toss them in the washing machine, Willatt recommends shaking them to remove any loose dust.

Wash your microfiber cloths separately instead of mixing them with towels or other fabrics. Although it may seem easier to do a load of towels along with your microfiber cloths to save time or simply have one less load to take care of, you’ll want to reconsider. There’s a reason for washing them on their own. “Microfiber towels easily collect lint, dust, and hair from other fabrics and will be difficult to remove,” says Katie Dills, Senior Vice President of Operations at The Cleaning Authority.

There are a couple of ways to wash microfiber towels, either by hand or in the washing machine. But you don’t want to go overboard with the detergent. “Don’t use too much detergent when washing, typically one to two teaspoons should be enough, says Willatt. If you’re noticing a strong or unpleasant aroma from your microfiber towels, a common pantry item will do the trick. “Vinegar helps get rid of any smells,” he says.

Washing Machine

If you opt to use the washing machine, use the gentle cycle and wash in cool or warm water, shares Willatt. Dills recommends, using “a detergent specifically formulated for microfiber fabric [but] if you don’t have any on-hand, then opt for a mild, clear detergent that is free of scents, additives, and harsh chemicals.”

Handwashing

“Shake off any excess dust first then soak the towels in a basin or sink with cool water,” says Willatt. And, of course, add some detergent. “Using your hands scrub the towels to loosen up dirt and debris and then let the towels soak for 15 minutes.” Then, scrub them again and rinse them with cool water. Once they’re washed, he says, “Wring out the moisture and lay out the towels to dry.”

Products To Avoid

There’s a tendency to assume that the more cleaning products that are used the cleaner an item will be but this concept can backfire. Some products can minimize the effectiveness of cleaning with these cloths. “Fabric softeners can coat the microfiber causing them to not properly pick up dust and dirt when cleaning,” says Willatt.  And strong chemicals can harm the material of microfiber. “Bleach can destroy the fibers and softeners will congest the space in between the fibers,” explains Dills.

Related: Cleaning Products You Should Never Mix

How To Dry Microfiber Towels

The way you dry these towels is equally important. “The best method is to hang or air dry,” says Dills. The second best is, if your dryer has the setting, “air-dry,” she says. Using the dryer is possible but there are some considerations to ensure longer-lasting microfiber cloths.

“Always dry microfiber towels separate from other cotton towels or clothes,” says Willatt. Make sure to use a low-heat seating to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your microfiber cloths. “High heat can damage or shrink the fibers in your microfiber towels, which will affect its absorbency,” says Dills. Both experts recommend cleaning out the lint trap before tossing these cloths in the dryer.

When To Replace Microfiber Towels

These cloths should last a while if you follow the recommended care instructions. “If you take care of your microfiber towels and clean them properly, they should last you a few years before needing to be replaced,” says Willatt. Sometimes your reusable cloths will give you a clue that it’s time to buy new ones. “If you notice your towels aren’t picking up dust and dirt like they did before then it is time to replace them.”

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