When it comes to cleaning, you’ll get a better clean from using a cloth or rag than when using rolls of paper towels. There is less lint, and it is much better for the environment. Plus, it’s cheaper to wash and reuse a cleaning rag than to buy roll after roll of paper towels.
But cleaning rags can get pretty gross after a while. So let’s talk about how to make them last by laundering them properly.
Properly Caring for Microfiber Cloths
A microfiber cloth might cost a little more than if you use an old t-shirt, but it really does an outstanding job of cleaning, especially when it comes to glass, fingerprints, and dusting. Keep in mind these few things when you use microfiber for cleaning around the house.
Your first instinct will be to simply toss the cloth in a basket until you have enough for a load of laundry. Be careful, though, to hang a wet cloth over the edge of the basket until it dries. Otherwise, you will start to have a musty smell coming from the basket after a few days.
Wash microfiber with microfiber. The beauty of this type of cloth is the lack of lint. Unfortunately, microfiber towels will pick up the lint from other fabrics in the wash, so segregate your towels accordingly.
Don’t use fabric softener or dryer sheets when you wash microfiber cloths. You will reduce their absorbency, and leave a film that will make them less useful for cleaning.
Caring for Your Towel, Cleaning Rag, Etc.
First of all, if you use towels in the kitchen for quick spill cleanups, hang the towel on a hook so it doesn’t begin to smell. A hook inside a sink cabinet is the perfect hiding place. Unless you have some brand-new kitchen towels, there is no need for laundering your rags and towels separately. Use hot water and a hot dryer setting to kill bacteria. Detergent is sufficient. As with microfiber cloths, fabric softener and dryer sheets tend to do more harm than good with towels and rags. A nicely scented detergent should keep towels smelling fresh.
