Microfiber Explained
Over the last 15 years or so; microfiber has become more and more popular and well known among detailers and hobbyists alike. Its become the main type of towels used in every professional detail shop around the country. The advent of newer water-based paint systems has also contributed to its skyrocketing popularity.
What is Microfiber?
Microfiber is a blend of polyester and polyamide fibers. This blend makes these cloths super strong. At the same time, this helps microfibers to be super absorbent and strong at the time. Microfiber is blended in different pile thickness, aka GSM (grams per square meter).
Versatility of Microfiber in Detailing
The reason for different thickness of microfiber is because microfiber does many jobs from cleaning dirty carpet to being a final wipe towel after applying a ceramic coating.
Microfiber is used in almost every aspect of detailing today. Its used during:
- Washing: Wash mitts, wheel barrel brushes
- Drying: Waffle weave or plush drying towels
- Paint correction – removal of compound and polish residue
- Protection – application and removal of spray sealants, ceramic coatings
- Final inspection – Final wipe down and application and removal of detail spray
- Applicators – microfibers applicators are used in applying ceramic coatings, tire shine, interior protectants, etc.
- Interior cleaning
- Glass cleaning
And more.
Waffle weave drying towel
Microfiber GSM Recommendation
200 GSM – Great for all around cleaning of interior, wheels, and other non-painted areas
350 – 450 GSM – The sweet spot. This pile thickness is perfect for applying and removing quick detail spray, spray sealants, & ceramic coatings
500 GSM – These towels are great for removing polish residue during paint correction along with panel prep wipe downs.
1000GSM – This thickness is great for drying towels. This allows them to be super plush along with super absorbent.
How to Care for Microfiber
Something often overlooked……Microfiber Care.
Most companies are quick to take your money for towels. But most won’t cover how to actually care for them. Proper storage and care of crucial to keep them at peak performance and get the most longevity.
- Keep your microfibers divided by job. Wash them and store them based on their jobs. This is especially crucial for towels that see excessive filth like interior cleaning, glass towels, drying towels, and towels that you use to apply sealants.
- Store your towels in bins or bags to keep dust away.
- Wash in warm or cold water and absolutely no fabric softener.
- Microfiber detergents are great. You can also use ones such as All Free & Clear or Tide Free & Gentle. You don’t want any detergents with fabric softeners or scents.
- Dry on low heat or tumble dry. High heat will damage microfiber!
Example of microfiber detergent.
Now for the good stuff….
There are a lot of companies that sell microfiber towels. And the price can be all over the place. As a consumer, it can be very confusing when trying to find the best place and get the best value!!!
The two companies that we recommend purchasing microfiber towels from are Autofiber and The Rag Company. Both of these companies offer amazing quality towels for a great price. If you decide to purchase Autofiber towels from Autoality.com, use the code DRSWIRLKILLER for a discount!
And the most important thing you can do is to properly wash and store your towels. Doing this will prolong their lifespan along with giving you peace of mind when you go to show your ride some love.
Looking for a professional who cares for your car like their own? Contact us today.