Quickie Wet/Dry Reusable Microfiber Cleaning Cloth, 24-Pack

For years, many kitchens had a dishrag hanging around the vicinity of the oven or sink, and it didn’t warrant much attention. These cloths were destined to dry dishes, clean up random spills and get thrown away when they got too frayed or stained.

That’s changed with the arrival of microfiber cloths. Not only are they capable of absorbing big spills, but their germ-fighting properties can also save households money in the long run on cleaning products. Add to that the fact that these fabrics are much more durable (given the right care), and you’ve got a cloth that’s more effective and eco-friendly.

Of course, not all microfiber cloths are created equal. The term “microfiber” simply implies extremely thin fibers woven together, and that leaves a lot of room for interpretation. For purposes of cleaning, the best microfiber cloths will be made of a high-quality blend of materials with the right density and weave.

As far as materials go, most microfiber cloth will be made of a polyester/polyamide blend. Both fabrics have properties that contribute to the cloth’s cleaning ability, but in general, you’ll want no more than 90% polyester. Quality cloths will have about 75-80% polyester.

Density is simply a measure of how tightly the fibers are woven together, but a higher density doesn’t necessarily mean a better fabric. Low-density cloths are those that have a rating of 200 grams per square meter or lower. While these are great for picking up tough stains, they are more liable to leave streaks on glass surfaces. High-density cloths of 300 GSM or higher won’t be as absorbent, but they’re great for wiping down car bodies, glasses or electronic tablet screens (and they’ll last longer, too). The median range of between 200-300 GSM should be sufficient for most cleaning jobs in the kitchen.

The way that microfiber is woven can also affect its cleaning ability. A “waffle weave” puts patterns into the surface of the cloth, and this additional texture can help in scrubbing down more stubborn stains. A “loop weave” actually leaves tiny loops on the surface of the cloth. While they generally won’t be visible to you, they make a big difference to liquids or smaller dust particles: As you wipe, the loops will actually scoop up these stains.

So you’ve cleaned up your first few spills with a microfiber cloth and it looks like it could use a little freshening up. The first thing you need to know is that it can’t be placed into the washing machine with the rest of your everyday clothes. If you can, give it a good hand-washing in the sink. If the automatic washer is a must, you should wash it separately in cold or warm water (not hot) with a gentle detergent. Under no circumstances should you use a fabric softener, as that will leave your cloth ragged and take away much of its cleaning properties. Dry them on low heat and they should be good to go.