Microfibre cloths offer a new way of cleaning

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 13/08/2006 (7188 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

DISCOVER a new way of cleaning using Microfibre cloths and water.

1. A microfibre cloth is a fairly new textile with very fine fibres that are half the diameter of a fine silk fibre, one-third the diameter of cotton, one-quarter the diameter of wool and one hundred times finer than human hair.

2. What makes microfibre so special? Many fibres are packed together to create a depth and a soft feel to fabrics from which they are made. To clean with a microfibre cloth, wet the cloth and wipe with a microfibre drying cloth or newspaper, no soap or chemicals are required and the results are amazing!

3. The many micro fibres in a good quality weave is what enables the cloth to hold up to seven times its weight in dirt, grime and liquid. When combined with tap water, microfibre cloths act like a magnet for dirt and liquid. Purchase only good quality cloths made with 80 per cent polyester and 20 per cent polyamide (nylon) (anything over 80 per cent polyester may scratch).

4. Beware- Although microfibre cloths are now available through many retail outlets, all micro-fiber is not created equally. Like most products on the market you get what you pay for. Look for thick, soft cloths.

5. microfibre cloths are environmentally friendly; they can reduce the consumption of cleaning chemicals in your home, while cutting down exposure to toxic fumes. microfibre cloths are especially useful for those suffering from asthma or allergies.

6. Kitchen uses for microfibre cloths. Wipe chrome and stainless steel to a shine, commercial grade microfibre cloths remove grease, clean boil over spills and fingerprints. Use microfibre cloths to clean Corian and granite without soap, as well as wood cabinets and the interior of microwave ovens.

Tip 1: microfibre cloths are non-abrasive and will not help spills that require a harsh texture.

Tip 2: microfibre mops are great for both wet and dry mopping. Use the mop on kitchen floors, tile floors, hardwood floors and dusting ceilings.

7. Bathroom uses for microfibre cloths. Say so long to harsh chemicals for cleaning mirrors (including hairspray residue) and hello to microfibre cloths. Wet cloth, wipe mirror in a circular motion and dry with a microfibre drying cloth or newspaper, the mirrors will be streak free! Remember to avoid cleaning mirrors on a sunny day. Clean sink top, shower, cabinetry using only a microfibre cloth and water.

8. Electronics, uses for microfibre cloths. Remove dust, dirt and fingerprints from CD’s, computer screens and television with a damp wipe.

9. Automotive uses for microfibre cloths. Clean car glass, interior wood and plastic surfaces, leather and vinyl seating. Purchase different size cloths for different jobs. Detail tools for vehicles; remove dirt, grime and bugs on windows.

10. Pet uses for microfibre cloths. Spruce up muddy paws; remove pet hair from furniture, clean paw prints on floors and wipe pets with a damp cloth to groom.

11. Take good care of your microfibre cloth. Do not wash cloths with fabric softener. Do not put fabric softener sheets in the dryer with microfibre cloths, doing so will reduce the absorbency of the textile. Do not iron, microfibre is heat sensitive because the fibres are extremely fine (heat penetrates quickly and can scorch).

12. Miscellaneous uses for microfibre cloths. The sky is the limit, polish jewellery, patio furniture, silverware, crystal, office chairs, patio doors, boat or motorcycle. Note: Dry hair faster with a microfibre hair towel, these towels will absorb wetness and reduce tangles.

13. microfibre cloths are not stain fighters; use an alternative method to zap a spot. However, a good quality cloth will absorb 20-30 per cent more liquid than a regular cotton cloth and bring out a great shine in any water-allowing finish.

14. microfibre furniture is gaining popularity, especially for families with small children! Although some do not like the look of the furniture, others love it. When purchasing microfibre furniture, it should be pre-treated. microfibre furniture can be found in formal as well as non-formal designs and cleaning up spills is easy.

15. Also gaining popularity is the addition of microfibre in garments, especially those requiring wind resistance and water repellence, microfibre tends to be “less clammy” in warm weather than conventional synthetics. Garments made with microfibre are usually labelled 100 per cent polyester microfibre and often simulate the appearance of sand-washed silk. Always follow care instructions on the label.

Solutions, is compiled from various sources, including: micro-fiber.net, ultrarag.com, microfibreplus.com, ohioline.com, norwex.com, web-carmats.com, microfibresunlimited.com. Similar information may be found elsewhere.

Reena Nerbas is the author of Household Solutions & Substitutions . She can be heard biweekly on the CBC radio show- Up To Speed.

householdsolutions@mts.net