How to Clean All Types of Microfiber Cloth

Microfiber cloths are known for their absorbance and ability to easily reach into crevices and pick up dirt without leaving streaks. Plus, they are three times as effective as conventional cleaning cloths in eliminating up to 99% of bacteria. It’s why we recommend them in many of our home cleaning tips.

But even the best cleaning cloth needs cleaning, or it will end up transferring dirt and germs. We’ll show you how to clean microfiber cloth of all types, including microfiber towels and glasses cleaning cloths, as well as microfiber cloth on furniture and recliners. 

{{CTA BLOCK}}

What’s the best way to properly clean microfiber cloth?

There are a few ways to clean microfiber cloth, depending on if you’re cleaning a microfiber cleaning cloth, lens cloth, or furniture. Microfiber lens cloths are best washed by hand, while microfiber cleaning cloths can be machine washed and dried. Spot clean microfiber furniture with warm water and mild detergent. 

In the next sections, we go over each cleaning method in detail. 

How to clean a microfiber cloth in the washing machine

To clean a microfiber cloth in the washing machine, start by shaking excess dirt from the cloth. Pre-treat heavily soiled areas by gently rubbing a small amount of detergent into the spot, then machine-wash using a gentle cycle in warm water and mild detergent. After washing, air-dry or dry on low heat in the dryer. 

What you’ll need

• Mild detergent
• Washing machine
• Dryer (optional)

Steps to clean a microfiber cloth in the washing machine

Follow these steps to clean microfiber cloth in your washing machine. As we mentioned above, this method works best for microfiber cleaning cloths. 

Step 1: Shake off the microfiber cloths

Part of why microfiber cloths work so well is because dirt clings to them. Before you put them in the washing machine, remove excess dirt by shaking them vigorously, either outside or into a trash can. 

Step 2: Pre-treat any stains 

Pre-treat any stains by gently rubbing a small amount of detergent into any spots or heavily soiled areas. Allow the detergent to sit for a few minutes before washing.

Separating the microfiber cloths from other laundry is advisable to avoid lint and fabric damage. In addition, the soiled microfiber cloth can transfer its dirt to your other laundry while attracting hair, lint, dust, and filth from them.

Step 3: Wash on a gentle cycle

Use a gentle cycle with warm water and mild detergent for washing. Avoid using fabric softener or bleach, as these can damage the fibers of the microfiber cloth.

Add a tablespoon of white vinegar to the machine load if the microfiber cloth smells bad.

Step 4: Use the proper load size

Don’t overload your washing machine, as this can cause the individual cloths to clump together and not get properly cleaned.

Step 5: Dry on low heat or air-dry

After washing, either let the microfiber cloths air dry or dry them on low heat in the dryer. Avoid using high heat as this can damage the fibers.

How to clean a microfiber cloth by hand

To clean a microfiber cloth by hand, start by shaking it to release excess dirt. Next, soak heavily soiled cloth in a mixture of warm water and mild detergent for 20 minutes. Agitate the cloth gently by hand, then rinse thoroughly under clean water and air dry.

Because they are more delicate, hand washing is the best way to wash microfiber cloths used for cleaning glasses and screens. This method also works well for microfiber cleaning cloths if you don’t want to machine wash them. 

What you’ll need

• Mild detergent
• Bucket
• Clean water

Steps to clean a microfiber cloth by hand

These are the recommended steps to clean a microfiber cloth by hand.

Mix your solution in the bucket

Fill a bucket with warm water and add a small amount of mild detergent. The water should be warm but not hot, as hot water can damage the fibers of the microfiber cloth.

Soak the cloth

Place the microfiber cloths into the bucket mixture and allow them to soak for 15 to 20 minutes. This will help loosen dirt and grime from the fibers.

Step 3: Agitate the cloth gently

After soaking, gently rub the cloths against one another or the sides of the bucket. Be careful not to be too harsh, as this can damage the fibers.

Step 4: Rinse and air dry

Rinse each cloth thoroughly under clean water to remove all detergent and dirt. Next, carefully squeeze out the excess water. Avoid twisting or wringing the microfiber cloths because doing so could make them lose their shape. Finally, air-dry on a drying rack or outside in the sun.

If you have a dryer, you can also machine dry microfiber cloth after handwashing. However, we recommend doing so on low heat as high heat can damage the cloth fibers.

Tips for keeping microfiber cloths clean

• Keep microfiber cloths away from other cleaning cloths and materials when storing them.
• After each use, shake the microfiber cloths to remove dirt, then give them a good rinse.
• Never iron microfiber cloth. Excessive heat damages the fibers.
• Wash with warm or room temp water. Never use hot water, bleach, or fabric softener.

How to clean a microfiber cloth for glasses

Cleaning your microfiber lens cloth helps re-open the gaps between the fibers, allowing the cloth to collect dust and grime from your glasses again. Add a few drops of mild soap to a bucket of warm water. Let the cloth soak in the soap for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly in cold water and air-dry.

• First, rinse the cloth under running water to remove any loose debris or dust.
• Fill a small container with warm water and add a mild detergent. 
• You can use dish soap or laundry detergent, but make sure it doesn't contain bleach or fabric softeners.
• Submerge the cloth in the soapy water and gently agitate it for a few minutes.
• Rinse the cloth thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. 
• Squeeze out excess water and lay on a clean surface to air dry. 
• Avoid using a dryer, as the heat can damage the fibers.

If the cloth is heavily soiled or has stubborn stains, soak it in soapy water for up to 30 minutes before rinsing and drying.

How to clean microfiber cloth furniture or recliner

Clean your microfiber cloth furniture or recliner with a clean white cloth and a solution of warm water and mild soap. Start by vacuuming the furniture. Next, spot test the cleaner in an inconspicuous area. If it doesn't discolor the chair, use it to clean the entire area.

Vacuum the furniture

Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove any loose dirt or dust from the surface.

Check the care label

Check the care label to see if there are any specific cleaning recommendations. Some microfiber cloth furniture may need special cleaning methods.

Spot clean

Combine warm water and a small amount of mild detergent in a bowl. Dip a clean, white cloth in the mixture and wring out any excess. Use the cloth to clean an inconspicuous area of the chair. Wait 15-20 minutes until this area has dried. 

If there are no stains or spots, continue cleaning the entire surface of the microfiber furniture.

Clean the entire surface

Dip your cleaning cloth back in the cleaning solution and wring it out. Next, use the damp cloth to wipe down the entire surface of the furniture or recliner. Again, avoid rubbing or scrubbing too hard.

Rinse with clean water

Dip a fresh cloth in clean water. Squeeze out excess and use it to wipe the chair's surface to remove any dirt or cleaning solution.

Dry with a new cloth

Lastly, use a clean, dry cloth to pat the surface of the furniture or recliner dry. Then allow the sofa to air dry completely before using it again.

Pro tip: If you also have an upholstered chair or a white leather sofa at home, we have guides that explain how to clean them as professionals do: 

• How to clean a white couch 
• How to clean upholstered chairs

Clean your house from top to bottom like a pro 

Taking care of your microfiber cloths and microfiber cloth furniture will help maintain the fibers and keep your home clean for years to come. Whether you're hand washing or machine washing your microfiber cloths, follow our instructions for the best clean possible. 

Need help keeping on top of your other house cleaning tasks? With Homeaglow, you can easily book an affordable, top-rated cleaner in your area. Read reviews, compare your options, and schedule online in minutes.