To clean car drying cloths, especially microfiber towels, the recommended method involves machine washing with specific settings and detergents, followed by proper drying.
Properly cleaning your car drying cloths, which are often made of microfiber, is essential to maintain their absorbency and effectiveness. According to Ethos Car Care, keeping these towels clean ensures they perform optimally during your car detailing process.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
Follow these simple steps to effectively clean your car drying cloths:
- Preparation: Ensure the cloths are free of any large debris or excessive product buildup before washing.
- Machine Wash: All microfiber towels can be machine washed.
- Washing Cycle: Use warm water for the wash cycle.
- Detergent Selection: Add a mild, clean-rinsing liquid detergent. It is best to use one that is as free of dyes and perfumes as possible, as these additives can clog microfiber pores over time, reducing absorbency.
- Drying: Once washed, you have two options for drying:
- Tumble Dry: Use low heat or no heat settings on your dryer. High heat can damage the microfiber fibers.
- Hang Dry: Alternatively, you can hang your cloths to dry, which is also a gentle method.
Key Considerations for Cleaning
- Avoid Fabric Softeners: Never use fabric softeners when washing microfiber cloths. Fabric softeners contain waxes and silicones that will coat the microfiber strands, rendering them ineffective at absorbing liquids and trapping dirt.
- Wash Separately: It is best to wash microfiber towels separately from other laundry, especially cotton, which can shed lint and get stuck in the microfiber fibers.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Ensure your washing machine's cycle includes a thorough rinse to remove all detergent residue.
By following these steps and avoiding harmful additives, you can significantly extend the life and performance of your car drying cloths.
