Once you’ve made the switch to microfiber cloths from more traditional materials, you never go back. So the question we always get is regarding how long microfiber cloths can be used before they need to be replaced. The truth is, it depends on what you’re using them for.

In most cases, they will last you a long time. However, there are some scenarios where you might intentionally or accidentally limit them to a one-time use. Let’s take a look at how you can get the most use out of your microfiber cloths.

How Long Can Microfiber Cloths Be Used?

When cared for properly, your microfiber cloths can be washed and re-used up to 500 times or more. This makes microfiber one of the most economical cleaning materials existing today. And they save you from wasting thousands of paper towels in their lifespan.

How to Properly Clean Microfiber

The most common mistake we see people make is washing their microfiber cloths with the rest of their laundry. The clingy nature of microfiber that makes it so great for cleaning also makes it attract lint from clothes and towels in the laundry.

You can either wash your microfiber cloths separately or in a mesh bag that lowers the contact with lint. Wash microfiber in cold water with normal detergent. Don’t use fabric softener, as this will clog the fibers and lower the cleaning efficiency to that of a cotton washcloth.

Dry on low or no heat to avoid ruining the fibers. Also, avoid anti-static products when drying microfiber. The static cling that builds up in microfiber is one of the qualities that makes it so efficient with cleaning.

One-Time Use of Microfiber

Many hospitals opt for one-time use of microfiber cloths and microfiber mops when cleaning up highly infectious contaminants. Because microfiber is so absorbent, they can prevent cross-contamination by disposing of the contaminated cloths and mop pads. However, most people won’t need to be this strict when using microfiber for cleaning at home.

One of the primary benefits of microfiber is the amount of use you can get out of it. The problem that people run into is when they use microfiber cloths to clean up oil, grease, or use them for polishing. Unfortunately, these things can’t be removed from the cloth.

If you still prefer to use microfiber for greasy and dirty jobs, that’s fine. Just know that you will have to dispose of them afterwards. Otherwise, you can stick to cotton for polishing and cleaning oil.