We recently published a post offering helpful tips for using microfiber cleaning cloths effectively. The response was so positive that we decided to follow up with another microfiber-related post. This one discusses how to know when it is time to replace the cloths.
Microfiber cloths are fantastic cleaning tools for nearly every business cleaning environment. We use them in medical offices and retail spaces. We use them in restaurants, warehouses, daycare centers, and even manufacturing spaces. But as wonderful as they are, they do wear out. The challenge is maximizing the life of a microfiber cloth while still recognizing when it is time to put it to rest.
Is a microfiber cloth less absorbent?
We want to help our readers understand how to know when it’s time to replace a microfiber cloth. So we have put together a selection of questions, beginning with the question of absorbency. A brand-new, out-of-the-box microfiber cloth is exceptionally absorbent. It absorbs both dirt and water.
As a cloth ages, its absorbency is reduced. The more dirt, oil, and cleaning solution
residue trapped in its microfibers, the less absorbent it is. Significant loss of absorbency is a good sign that replacement is imminent.
Is the cloth no longer soft?
A microfiber cloth should feel soft to the touch. Its softness is directly related to the microfibers that make up its substance. As those fibers begin to break down, a cloth loses its softness. It becomes rough and stiff. At that point, the microfibers are no longer capable of doing what they are designed to do. A rough or stiff microfiber cloth should probably be replaced.
Are fibers fraying on the edges?
Another sign that a cleaning cloth’s microfibers are no longer performing as they should is fraying. If you notice fraying along the edges or on the corners, your microfiber cloth is likely well past its recommended lifespan. Incidentally, a good microfiber cloth should perform well for up to 500 washes. After that, all bets are off.
Does your microfiber cloth stink?
Sometimes, it is the nose that tells you it’s time to replace a microfiber cloth. It is normal for a cloth to smell bad while you’re actually cleaning. But if it still stinks after you wash it, there is a good chance that bacteria or mildew is trapped in the fibers. Now you’re looking at a cleaning cloth that cannot be used on any surfaces for which hygiene is a concern.
It’s best to toss microfiber cloths that still stink even after washing. Don’t take chances with bacteria or mildew. Replace the stinky cloth and be done with it.
Is your cloth discolored or seriously stained?
Discoloration and significant staining is yet another sign that dirt and debris are trapped in the microfibers of your cloth. Initially, a little bit of discoloration or staining isn’t a big deal. But if either one covers most of a cleaning cloth’s surface, there is a good chance that the cloth isn’t as performing as well as it should. Consider replacing it.
How old is the cloth?
Last but not least is cloth age. Again, a good cloth should be usable for up to five hundred washes. So it’s entirely possible to get a year or more out of a cloth. But the older a microfiber cleaning cloth gets, the less it does its job. So consider replacing cloths at least every year or so.
Microfiber cleaning cloths are one of the best cleaning tools we have today. They do a great job and last a long time, but they do need to be replaced eventually.
