We've said it many times before, and we'll continue to say it, your vehicle is a very important investment in your life, so you want to make sure to keep it protected and looking excellent for years to come. Using the wrong towels on your vehicle's paint and other delicate surfaces can cause more harm than good - creating unsightly swirls and scratches. If you're a shine freak like us, you've spent countless hours polishing the paint to near-perfection, so 'cheaping out' on towels on any part of the detailing process should not be a consideration.
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Stitched Tags and Heat-Seared Edges Make Your Paint Cry
Many of the microfiber towels that you can purchase in bulk packs from retail stores or large wholesale stores are cheap for a reason, their quality is low. These towels are usually multiple colors, thin, and feel almost rough and clingy. They will grab onto your fingers as you pick up the towel, due to the lower GSM (Grams per Square Meter) fiber count and lower percentage of polyamide compared to polyester (80/20). Some of these towels have a GSM so low that they leave light marring and faint scratches in soft clear coats. Many of these towels will have stitched tags made of nylon or some other sharp material, and you will notice these tags are not very flexible, which is a perfect combination to instantly scratch paint, clear coat, piano black plastic trim pieces, and more. Even if you rip the tag out of the towel, it will still usually feel rough at this area, and it will weaken the stitching of the towel. These low-quality towels will feel even more rough over time, especially after washing them.
These bulk towels also have heat-seared edges cut by machines that melt the edges and corners of the towels. This keeps the towels from fraying apart, but these melted edges are sometimes even sharper than the sewn-in tags, so they can cause scratching when wiping away compound, polish, or wax residue, or when using them for a maintenance wipe with Detail Spray for example. These types of towels are good for very dirty jobs like cleaning door jambs, wiping exhaust tips, checking your oil, or wiping up spills and then disposing of them, so we do not recommend them for paint. Unlike these cheap bulk towel options, at Adam's Polishes we source only high-quality, premium microfiber from South Korea, so while they are a bit more costly, it is worth the peace of mind when using them. Our towels are a higher-quality 70/30 blend, have no melted edges, and have zero tags. You will instantly feel the difference when picking up one of our plush Single Soft Towels or Borderless Grey Towels to wipe down your car, and feel at-ease knowing that you are using premium towels to go along with the premium chemicals that make your ride stand out from the crowd.
Beach Towels, Chamois, and Cotton Bath Towels vs. Microfiber Drying Towels
Having the right products and process to dry your vehicle after washing are just as important as having plush microfiber towels on hand when polishing, ceramic coating, or quick detailing your car. Improper washing and drying are two of the main causes of swirl marks and scratches in a vehicle's finish. It may shock some of you, but there are many people that still think it's perfectly fine to dry your car with a cotton bath towel or beach towel. Beach towels and cotton towels are fine for drying off your skin after a swim or shower, but they are not soft enough for vehicle paint and can quickly swirl up a nice finish. They also do not absorb water anywhere near as efficient as a proper microfiber drying towel. Much like the cheap bulk-buy microfiber towel bundles discussed above, beach towels and cotton towels usually have sharp nylon tags that will further aid in scratching your vehicle.
Chamois are a less than ideal vehicle drying solution as well. Real leather chamois absorb significant amounts of water and are easy to wring out, but their very thin design can cause issues. Since chamois and synthetic chamois are very thin, if they pick up a small amount of grit, like a particle of dirt or sand, the chamois will simply drag this particle across the painted surface, usually resulting in long, faint scratches or worse. Since synthetic chamois are not as flexible as a towel, they often leave droplets of water in body contours, panel gaps, etc. Real leather chamois dry out by design, but can also begin to develop an unpleasant odor that you may not want lingering in your garage or laundry room.
The benefits of premium microfiber drying towels like our Ultra Plush Drying Towel or Jumbo Plush Drying Towel, are that they are incredibly soft once they have even a small amount of water in them. The long, twist-loop fibers of these towels will reach down into all of the nooks and crannies, body contours, and cracks and crevices of various exterior surfaces, absorbing every drop of water. These long fibers also help in pulling any potential dirt particles up into the towel, rather than dragging them across the surface like a chamois. Premium microfiber drying towels hold very large amounts of water and are capable of drying entire midsize sedans without wringing them out - in the case of our Jumbo Plush Drying Towel, it holds over one gallon (9 pounds) of water, making it a very safe option to dry large trucks and SUV's in a more efficient manner.
Car Dusters - Why You Should Avoid Them
It's nearly a given that at every big car show or event we attend, we will have at least one person ask us 'Where are your car dusters?' and they proceed to get upset when we tell them that we do not sell them because they do more harm than good to your car's paint. Adam often tells them 'Car dusters are a great way for us to sell machine polishers!' We then explain to the them that car dusters can leave very long faint scratches up and down the entire hood, fenders, roof, and trunk lid of a vehicle, as they build up more and more dust and dirt particles that stick right onto the edge of the wax tips of the feather duster. You then drag dirt particles over the surface as you pick up the rest of the dust from a panel, with no easy way to clean out the car duster between each section or panel. This same issue can occur with some car covers if you pull them off of a car rather than lift the cover upward off of the car. Then you will need to machine polish or possibly even compound the surface to remove these scratches.
The much safer alternative to using a car duster to remove light dust from your car at a cruise, show, or in your garage is using the correct chemical cleaning solution with a unique type of microfiber towel made for this task. Our Waterless Wash and waffle-weave Waterless Wash Towels were designed specifically with this purpose in mind. Waterless Wash is our most complex chemical formula out of every chemical that we offer. It uses special lubricating agents, cleaners, and polymers that aid in loosening and lifting dirt and dust particles from a surface, that, when combined with the channels of the premium waffle-weave microfiber towel, pull dirt from the surface up into the hundreds of tiny 'pockets' in the towel.
The Waterless Wash Towels are a generous 16'x24' size, which allows you to fold the towel into 6 or 8 working 'sides' per towel. After spraying down a panel or section with Waterless Wash, you gently wipe one side of the towel over the area a few times, until that side becomes soiled with dust and dirt. Continue to flip the towel to new fresh sides until all sides have been saturated with cleaner and dirt, then set aside that towel to be washed. You can then follow up with a second dry Waterless Wash Towel, or a Single Soft Towel or Borderless Grey Towel if you want to be even more delicate, to wipe away any excess residue from the Waterless Wash on the now clean surface. Typically it may take 6 or more Waterless Wash Towels to clean an entire vehicle if it has heavy dust build-up or light dirt; however, once you do the initial cleaning, it will be much easier to 'dust off' main areas with Waterless Wash throughout the rest of the day at the show. The benefit of Waterless Wash is that you do not need to worry about it building up if you use it frequently, since it does not offer any protection.
Premium microfiber towels can be a pricey initial investment, but with proper use and care, you can get multiple years out of most of these towels before you will need to downgrade them to a lesser task and re-stock your supply. Microfiber is one area in detailing where you definitely do not want to cheapen-out or try to find the best bargain. Using a low-quality towel or re-using a dirty towel to try to save a few minutes here and there during the detailing process can end up causing considerable re-work if you end up scratching a panel that you just spent 30 minutes or more correcting with a machine polisher. There are a few simple practices, along with the right cleaning accessories to keep your premium microfiber towels clean, soft, and safe for many detailing sessions to come. Let's take a look at Adam's Towel & Pad Revitalizer below.
Towel & Pad Revitalizer
Adam's Towel & Pad Revitalizer is a simple and effective way to clean and maintain your premium microfiber towels, as well as microfiber and foam pads and applicators. It is a powerful detergent formula made to break down and remove polish, compound, polymers, wax, and other residues that are absorbed into your towels during various detailing processes. Not only does it extend the life of your towels, it will keep them feeling just as soft as the first day you removed the towel from its packaging. Building on our already excellent but older Microfiber Revitalizer & Brightener, our chemist reformulated it into an even more effective cleaner as Towel & Pad Revitalizer, which we feel is one of the best microfiber detergents available in the industry today. Towel & Pad Revitalizer can be used in several different ways:
- It can be used as a detergent when washing your towels in a washing machine - one to two ounces depending on how light or heavy of a wash load that you are cleaning.
- It can be used to pretreat stains on towels by spraying the cleaner directly into the towel, and then agitating the towel on itself before putting it into the washing machine.
- It can be used to presoak heavily soiled towels in a bucket prior to washing. Simply mix 1oz into a bucket with water, place the very dirty towels into the solution, and place a Grit Guard on top of the towels to keep them submerged for a few hours.
- It can be used to clean machine polishing pads and applicators by spraying directly into the pad, allowing it to soak for 30-60 seconds, and then agitating the pad or applicator with your thumbs and fingers before thoroughly rinsing with water. For more contaminated pads, you can use Towel & Pad Revitalizer along with our Pad Conditioning Brush to scrub and deep clean the pads.
- It also works very well at cleaning white rubber soles on shoes!
For a full in-depth write-up on caring for microfiber, please reference our previous blog entry here: How To Care For Microfiber Towels
How Many Premium Microfiber Towels Do You Need?
Another question we are often asked is 'How many towels do I need for an all-around good setup of microfiber?' This will usually depend on several factors, such as how many vehicles do you own or work on, how frequently do you clean them, and how do you clean them or what products do you use on them? If you have one or two vehicles that you are maintaining, you may only need 1 or 2 of each towel type; however if you are cleaning a fleet of vehicles or detailing as a business, you may need something like our 24-pack of Borderless Grey Towels so that you are not constantly washing the same 4 or 6 towels every night. If you're looking to start fresh with your microfiber assortment or to replenish old or lower-quality towels, a good starting point example if you're maintaining a few vehicles would be:
- 6-pack of Single Soft Towels and/or Borderless Grey Towels or Borderless Grey Lite Towels to use as polish/wax/ceramic coating removal towels and quick wipe-downs with Detail Spray, H2O Guard & Gloss, or Slick & Slide
- 2-pack of Ultra Plush Drying Towels for vehicle drying
- One Mini Plush Drying Towel for drying wheels and/or lower areas of the vehicle
- 2-pack of Glass Towels for interior and exterior glass cleaning (or a 6-pack if you will use them around your house for windows, bathroom mirrors, and so on)
- 6-pack of Edgeless Utility Towels for interior, engine bay, and exhaust tip cleaning
- 6-pack of Waterless Wash Towels for cleaning dust and light dirt with Waterless Wash
- 2-pack of Double Soft Towels if you have any vehicles with a very delicate finish
What Exactly Are Microfiber or Detailing Towels?
Microfiber towels are a must-have tool for any car care enthusiast or professional detailer. Unlike regular cloths, they are crafted from a blend of polyester and polyamide, featuring ultra-fine fibers that are much thinner than a human hair. This unique construction makes them:
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- Highly effective at trapping dirt and debris without scratching.
- Incredibly absorbent, capable of holding several times their weight in liquid.
- Gentle yet durable, ensuring the protection of delicate surfaces like paint.
By choosing the right microfiber towel, you can achieve professional results while minimizing the risk of damage to your vehicle.
Benefits of Using Microfiber Towels for Cars
Do Microfiber Towels Scratch Cars?
Microfiber towels are designed to be scratch-free when used properly. Their soft fibers lift dirt away from the surface rather than dragging it, reducing the chance of micro-scratches. However, using a dirty towel or the wrong type for the job can still cause damage.
For example, a high-density towel like the GENTLEMAN+ (600 g/m²) provides superior protection for delicate paintwork.
Why Choose Microfiber Towels?
The Advantages of Using Microfiber Towels for Your Vehicle
- Superior Protection:Gentle on paint, glass, and interior surfaces.
- Enhanced Absorption:Quickly and effectively dries without leaving streaks.
- Multi-Purpose Use:Suitable for waxing, polishing, drying, and cleaning.
- Long-Lasting Performance:Proper care ensures they last for hundreds of uses.
Mistake to Avoid: Using cotton rags or household towels can result in scratches, lint, and poor absorption, making them unsuitable for professional car care.
Choosing the Right Microfiber Towels
The key to achieving flawless results lies in selecting the right microfiber towel for the task at hand.
Key Factors to Consider:
- GSM (Grams Per Square Meter):
- 200-300 GSM: Ideal for glass and light cleaning tasks.
- 350-500 GSM: Perfect for versatile use on interiors, sprays, and general cleaning.
- 500-600 GSM: Designed for delicate tasks like polishing, waxing, and drying.
- Edges: Laser-cut edges, like those on the GENTLEMAN series, prevent fraying and reduce the risk of scratches.
Types of Microfiber Towels and Their Specific Uses
Not all microfiber towels are created equal. Each type is designed with specific features that make it ideal for particular tasks in car detailing. Whether you're polishing paint, cleaning glass, or wiping down interiors, using the right microfiber towel can ensure better results and protect your vehicle's surfaces. Let's break down the different types and their specific uses to help you make the right choice..
For Paintwork
GENTLEMAN+ ' 600 g/m²
- Uses:
- Wax application and removal.
- Polishing for a swirl-free finish.
- Why It's Ideal:
Its ultra-dense and fluffy fibers protect delicate surfaces, while the laser-cut edges ensure a safe and precise clean.
For Quick Detailer Sprays
GENTLEMAN ' 500 g/m²
- Uses:
- Quick Detailer application.
- Dust and light debris removal.
- Why It's Ideal:
This towel balances softness and absorbency, making it perfect for touch-ups and sprays.
For Removing Sealants, Coatings, and Waxes
GENTLEMAN Basic ' 350 g/m²
- Uses:
- Buffing off waxes and sealants.
- Small area drying.
- Why It's Ideal:
Its dual-sided design'fluffy on one side and flat on the other'provides precision for different tasks.
For Glass
ZEPHYR Waffle Towel ' 400 g/m²
- Uses:
- Streak-free cleaning of windows, mirrors, and windshields.
- Why It's Ideal:
The waffle weave structure eliminates streaks and lint, making it perfect for glass surfaces.
For General Cleaning
WORKER ' 320 g/m²
- Uses:
- Applying wax, polish, or sprays.
- Cleaning both interiors and exteriors.
- Why It's Ideal:
A reliable, multi-purpose towel with a medium GSM, perfect for intensive cleaning tasks while remaining gentle on surfaces.
Common Mistakes When Not Using Microfiber Towels
Using Low-Quality Cloths:
Cotton or standard towels can cause scratches and leave lint, damaging your car's finish.
Reusing Dirty Towels:
Microfiber towels must be clean to avoid transferring dirt or grit, which can act like sandpaper.
Not Pre-Washing New Towels:
Towels like the GENTLEMAN+ perform best when pre-washed, as this removes manufacturing residues.
Using Fabric Softeners:
Softening agents coat microfiber fibers, reducing their absorbency and effectiveness.
Using the Wrong Towel for the Task:
For example, using a low-GSM towel on paint can lead to improper cleaning or scratching.
Maintaining Your Microfiber Cloth
Pre-Use Preparations
- Wash all new microfiber towels before use to enhance absorbency.
- Always use a mild detergent without fabric softeners.
Routine Wash:
- Wash microfiber towels separately from other fabrics.
- Use warm water and a fragrance-free detergent.
- Avoid bleach or fabric softeners, which damage fibers.
Drying Techniques:
- Air-dry whenever possible.
- If using a dryer, choose a low-heat setting to prevent heat damage.
How Long Do Microfiber Towels Last?
With proper care, microfiber towels can last for hundreds of uses. Replace them if:
- They lose their softness or absorbency.
- The fibers appear frayed or damaged.
How to Store Your Microfiber Towels
- Keep Them Clean and Dry: Store in a dust-free, moisture-free environment.
- Separate by Task: Dedicate specific towels for paint, glass, and interior tasks to avoid cross-contamination.
Conclusion
Microfiber towels are indispensable for professional car detailing. High-quality options like the GENTLEMAN, GENTLEMAN+, GENTLEMAN Basic, and WORKER ensure that every task'from waxing and polishing to general cleaning'is completed with precision and care.
Take your car care to the next level. Explore our store to find the perfect microfiber towels for your needs and achieve professional results every time.
What is GSM, and why is it important?
GSM measures the density of a microfiber towel. Higher GSM (500-600) is ideal for polishing and delicate tasks, while lower GSM (200-300) is best for cleaning glass and removing light debris.
Can I use microfiber towels on all car surfaces?
Yes, but use the right towel for each surface. For example, use the WORKER for general cleaning and the GENTLEMAN+ for polishing paintwork.
How do I prevent scratches when using microfiber towels?
Always use clean towels, choose the right GSM for the job, and avoid applying excessive pressure.
How often should I replace my microfiber towels?
Replace them when they lose softness, absorbency, or show visible signs of wear.
Find a Store Near You
Looking to buy Work Stuff best microfiber towels locally? Visit CarDetailing.life, where you can easily locate nearby stores that carry our premium detailing products. The site automatically redirects you to the closest location, when you choose the product you search to buy it making it simple to get the tools you need for exceptional car care.
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