Microfiber cleaning cloths are standard fare in the modern cleaning industry. Whether cleaning an office, an industrial space, the medical environment, or even a daycare center, microfiber cloths have become indispensable among professionals who know their business. We certainly use them here at All Pro Cleaning Systems.
Like any tool, though, there are good and not-so-good ways to use microfiber cleaning cloths. If you know how to take advantage of their unique properties, they will do a good job for you. Otherwise, you might find that they are not any better than your standard cleaning rags.
To help drive the point home, we have put together a selection of helpful tips for using microfiber cleaning cloths effectively. Here they are:
1. Dry Cloths for Dusting
Microfiber cleaning cloths can be used dry, damp, or wet. Use them dry for dusting purposes. One of the benefits they bring to the table is the ability to trap dust and dirt without spreading it around. It is the microfibers that make it possible. But to maximize the effect, a cleaning cloth needs to be used dry.
Dampening a microfiber cloth, or even getting it soaking wet, limits its ability to trap fine particles. Furthermore, there is no need to do so. A clean, dry microfiber cloth is perfect for dusting without the need for any water.
2. Dampen to Avoid Streaks
When cleaning streak-prone services like glass and stainless steel, a damp microfiber cloth is ideal. The moisture in the cloth helps to release and wipe away dirt while the water-absorbing properties of the cloth’s fibers prevent streaking.
Just know this one thing: a wet microfiber cloth could leave water behind, leaving spots when it dries. For a streak-free surface, just get the cloth damp. There is no need to saturate it with water.
3. Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals
Microfiber cleaning cloths work just fine with mild cleaning solutions and water. There is no need to use harsh chemicals with them. In fact, it’s best to avoid the harsh chemicals altogether.
Microfiber cloths are so named because of the microscopic nature of the fibers that make up their substance. These small fibers are highly sensitive. Harsh chemicals like bleach and ammonia could damage them. Using harsh chemicals with microfiber cloths tends to minimize performance and reduce lifespan.
4. Separate Your Cloths by Surface
As a professional cleaning company that has cleaned a wide variety of spaces, we have learned that it’s a good idea to separate microfiber cleaning cloths by surface. More to the point, we have different cloths for each type of surface our teams are likely to clean.
Use one set of cloths for dusting. This set never gets wet and is never exposed to harsh chemicals. Another set of cloths are reserve for cleaning windows and mirrors. Yet another set is dedicated to cleaning and sanitizing restrooms.
The whole point of separating your cleaning cloths is to avoid cross contamination. Different surfaces require different cleaning solutions and techniques, so there is little value in transferring dirt and contamination from one surface to the next by sharing cleaning cloths between them.
5. Wash Cleaning Cloths Separately
Lastly, wash your cleaning cloths separate from other cloths and tools you use to clean. That way, you avoid exposing the sensitive microfiber surfaces to dirt, debris, and lint. You will extend both microfiber cloth life and performance.
We are big fans of microfiber cleaning cloths here at All Pro Cleaning Systems. If you would like to know more about how we can clean your office, small business, or industrial space, don’t hesitate to ask.
