Microfiber is causing a stir in the cleaning industry. It is quickly becoming the cleaning and polishing fabric of choice in all facets of auto detailing, from washing and drying to polishing, wax application and removal. But this versatile and highly absorbent material is also replacing traditional cleaning methods in hospitals and universities around the world!
A unique combination of two basic fibers: Polyester and Polyamide (a nylon by-product) are the backbone of microfiber. These are densely constructed fibers 1/16th the size of a human hair. This network of fibers is then woven and manufactured in distinct ways, producing different varieties for a myriad of uses.
Some Microfiber is processed into a “flat” weave. This weave actually repels water and is used in the textile industry to manufacture water resistant items, such as clothing and watchbands. This variety of Microfiber is not of a quality beneficial to cleaning or polishing applications.
In order to be effective for cleaning and polishing usage, the Microfiber must be “split” during processing. This is a costly method of actually splitting the polyester (the scrubbing fiber) from the polymide (the absorbing and quick drying fiber). Remember, if this costly method of “splitting” the fibers is eliminated the resulting product loses over half of its absorbing and cleaning ability!
Once the Microfiber is split the fibers are woven into a fabric, often consisting of 70% to 80% polyester and 20% to 30% polyamide, depending on the desired style of fabric construction. The polyester and polymide are combined during weaving to create thousands of microscopic “Loops”.
These “loops” form a web of hook-like claws that can reach into the tiniest nooks and crannies, scrubbing away dirt and grime while trapping it within the weave. This amazing “loop” is what makes Microfiber the ideal choice for gently buffing dirt particles off delicate glass and paint surfaces, without fear of abrasion.
Denier is the unit used for measuring the fineness of fabric. Microfiber is incredibly fine with a denier of approximately 0.01 to 0.02. Compare that against the denier of a single strand of silk at 8, or a human hair at 20! Now imagine buffing your treasured car with a fabric that is softer than the finest silk!
While it is true that microfiber is among the softest materials ever created by man, it is also incredibly strong. That's because “split” microfibers contain thousands of “loops” per square inch, and high quality microfiber cloths have upwards of 200,000 strands of fiber per square inch of material. This high density of fibers results in a fabric that is durable enough to withstand over 500 washings! Making microfiber extremely cost effective, since it is highly re-usable.
Microfiber actually traps dust and dirt, and can be used with or without chemicals. That is because the filaments are positively charged, while dust and dirt carry a negative charge. A quality microfiber will quite literally pick up all foreign materials! That is great news for allergy sufferers! Used dry, the fibers act like a dust magnet. Used wet, with simply water or a tiny amount of detergent, the fibers become formidable scrubbers, easily tackling the toughest grime.
Recent scientific research studies have revealed some interesting facts about Microfiber. One such study conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency of the United States was recently released. The EPA found microfibers reduced chemical use and disposal (since they are designed to clean any surface using just plain water!), are less labor intensive, more cost efficient, and clean far more effectively than conventional cleaners.
A study conducted by the prestigious Royal Roads University, in Victoria, British Columbia was impressive. Michael Archibald, Director of the study concluded, “This system is simple, efficient, and effective, and represents the next generation in cleaning systems. Lastly, this system is as effective as cleaning with chemicals.” Strong words from a university that states its goal “is to become a global leader in environmental sustainability through innovative strategies, which foster the protection and preservation of the environment.”
When looking for a Microfiber cloth or towel bear in mind that less density of fiber, translate into less cleaning power and far less durability. The less dense cloths are also more abrasive to delicate surfaces. Look for at least 200,000 fibers per square inch of fabric.
Superior Microfiber cloths and towels rely on this dense weave to achieve greater cleaning results. Cheaper versions of Microfiber can use a weave that is too wide or a pile that is too long, which causes the fibers to break off during use, leaving a lint trail. This is not uncommon practice among manufacturers looking to make a tidy profit while leaving the consumer with a shoddy product.
High quality microfiber is the only material that ever touches my customer paint in the entire process, which includes washing, correction and protection steps.
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