Why Microfiber Cloths Stop Absorbing Water—and How to Restore Them

Water beading on one microfiber cloth and absorbing into another beside clean cloths

When microfiber cloths stop absorbing water, the fibers are often coated or clogged with fabric softener, dryer-sheet residue, excess detergent, grease, wax, or polish. Rewashing the cloth separately with an appropriate amount of plain detergent—without softener—and rinsing it thoroughly can often restore its performance. Not every cloth can be recovered. Excessive heat, ironing, harsh bleach, … Read more