How To Wash Detailing Towels
Microfiber Towels are a popular choice for cleaning due to their ability to absorb water and dirt, as well as their softness and durability. Their high absorbency, lint-free nature, and gentleness on surfaces make them ideal for all processes involved in car detailing. In order to maintain their effectiveness and longevity however, these towels require proper care and maintenance. In this blog, we will discuss the proper steps for washing microfiber towels and explain why these steps are important.
01.
Sort Microfiber Towels by Color and Purpose
Before washing microfiber towels it is important to sort them by process, which, in organized setups, means by color as well. Separating microfiber towels by how they are used, which areas of a vehicle they are used on, and the detailing chemicals involved, greatly reduces the risk of cross contamination.
It would be inefficient and potentially costly to use a microfiber towel on a delicate area that had been previously used with harsher chemicals or on a particularly dirty area. A mild example would be cleaning windows with a microfiber towel that had previously been used to wipe away wax. Minor wax residue could still be lurking on the microfiber towel and it could create unwanted streaks on windows.
02.
Pre-Soak
(Optional)
Whether the used microfiber towels are greasy or grimy, or wanting to avoid spreading compounds to clothing, pre-rinsing and soaking microfiber towels could be beneficial.
Though it is ideal to have separate machines for detailing towels and regular clothing, it is not always feasible. Some chemical and compound residue could potentially transfer to the next load of laundry, and if there’s only one set of machines for all of someone’s laundry, it could be cloths.
This poses a risk more for longevity of the clothing and if someone has a sensitivity or allergy to detailing chemicals. To help reduce this, soaking and rinsing used microfiber towels prior to washing aid in removing some of the excess chemicals.
03.
Wash Separately
It is important to wash microfiber towels separately from other types of laundry to avoid any lint or debris from other fabrics from sticking to the towels, which could potentially mar the car surfaces being detailed.
04.
Use Cold Water and Mild Detergent
When washing microfiber towels, it is best to use cold water and a mild detergent. Hot water can damage the fibers of the towels and cause them to lose their effectiveness over time. Moreover, using a mild or microfiber specific detergent can help prevent any buildup or residue on the towels, which can also affect their absorbency.
05.
Avoid Fabric Softeners and Bleach
Fabric softeners and bleach should never be used when washing microfiber towels. Fabric softeners can leave a residue on the towels, which can reduce their absorbency, while bleach can damage the fiber of the towels and cause them to deteriorate over time.
06.
Dry on Low Heat
When drying microfiber towels, it is important to use a low heat or air-dry setting to avoid damaging the fibers of the towel. High heat can cause the fibers to melt or shrink, which can leave them less effective than they should be. It is also important to avoid using dryer sheets, as they can leave a residue on the towels that can diminish their absorbency.
Importance of Knowing How to Wash Detailing Towels
Proper care and maintenance are important for microfiber towels to ensure that they continue to function productively. If microfiber towels are not cared for properly, they can become less absorbent and less effective over time. Furthermore, using fabric softeners, bleach, or high heat when washing or drying microfiber towels can damage the fiber of the towel, which can reduce their capabilities and lifespan.
In Conclusion
In summary, microfiber towels are a valuable tool for cleaning, but proper care and maintenance are necessary to keep them working as they should. Sorting microfiber towels accordingly, pre-rinsing, washing them separately with cold water and mild detergent, avoiding fabric softeners and bleach, and drying them on low heat are all important steps to follow when washing microfiber towels. By following these steps, you can sure that your microfiber towels remain absorbent and effective for years to come.