The Magic of Microfiber

The Magic of Microfiber

Jan 6, 2023 | Grout Tips | 0 comments

Microfiber towels

Microfiber is the newest technology in germ warfare. Learn the benefits of using Microfiber!

The war on germs and bacteria has never been so fierce and the debate on if the use of harsh chemicals and cleaning solutions are doing us more harm than good carries on.  There is another useful tool to help reduce the amount of bacteria and germs on the surfaces we touch, that would be  MICROFIBER!

Microfiber is defined as any type of fiber with a diameter less than 10 micrometers (10 micrometers = 0.000393701 inches. To put in perspective, a human hair is around 100 micrometers). But beware, not all microfiber is alike. To achieve optimal bacteria and virus removal “split microfiber” must be used. This type of microfiber is a blend of nylon and polyester and during the manufacturing process the materials are mechanically split into millions of spaghetti like hairs that create a web of filaments and microscopic pores. Split microfiber also packs a net positive charge which means they easily attract negatively charged dirt and grease. HANDY TIP: To determine if microfiber is split, push a water spill with it. If the microfiber pushes the water instead of absorbing it, then it’s not split.

MICROFIBER HAS CREDIBILITY!  An independent study which was published by the EPA tested and proved in a laboratory and clinically that extremely fine microfiber removed 98% of bacteria and 93% of virus on a surface using ONLY WATER! In comparison traditional cloth showed 38% removal of bacteria and 23% of viruses from a contaminated surface. Additionally, split microfibers are much more absorbent and they can remove large quantities of microbes, including hard-to-kill spores.

MORE BENEFITS!!

  • Unlike cotton, microfiber dries fast, making it hard for bacteria to grow in it and microfiber lasts longer than cotton; it can be washed a thousand times before losing its effectiveness.  DURABLE AND REUSABLE!
  • Microfiber cloths and mops are easily found in grocery stores, hardware stores, big box stores and online. Prices range from cheap ($1.00 or less, especially when bought in bulk) to mid-range ($3.00 – $5.00). There are differences in quality and durability. Higher priced cloths usually have smaller fibers and pick up more dirt and dust, but even the cheap ones get good results.
  • Microfiber mops are far lighter than their cotton counterparts, helping to save the user from neck and back injuries from heavy, water-soaked cotton mops.
  • GOOD FOR THE ENVIRONMENT!  Microfiber is made of synthetic fibers which are not treated with chemicals and are effective in their natural state reducing the exposure or need for harsh cleaning chemicals to get the job done!
  • Microfiber come in many different colors so you can assign a color to a specific job or area so you don’t transfer germs!

HOW TO CLEAN WITH MICROFIBER:

  • SURFACES:  Use microfiber for cleaning counters and stovetops. The tiny fibers pick up more dirt and food residue than most cloths. They can be used with a third-party certified all-purpose cleaner, or a disinfectant.
  • FLOORS  can be washed with microfiber mops. These mops are flat-surfaced and have easy-to-remove microfiber heads. Microfiber mop heads are lightweight and much easier to wring out, which results in a cleaner floor with much less water left on the floor to dry.
  • WINDOWS :  With microfiber, only the cloth and water is necessary to clean and de-streak windows. No more toxic window cleaners! Use just one cloth and water to wash, and another to dry.
  • DUSTING: Microfiber cloths and mops trap much more dust than cotton rags, which makes the job faster and easier.

CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE:

  • Wash and dry microfiber separately from all other laundry. Because microfiber has a charge, it will attract dirt, hair and lint from other laundry. This will reduce the effectiveness of the microfiber.
  • Wash heavily soiled microfiber cloths and mop heads in warm or hot water with detergent. Lightly soiled cloths can be washed in cold, or even on the gentle cycle.
  • Do not use fabric softener! Fabric softeners contain oils that clog up microfibers. This makes them less effective during your next use.
  • Do not use bleach! This will shorten the life span of the microfiber.
  • Microfiber dries very fast, so plan on a short laundry cycle. You can also hang items up to dry.
  • Be sure to launder microfiber cleaning cloths after every use.