How to Wash Microfiber Towels (Properly): Care Tips to Make Them Last

Microfiber towels are the unsung heroes of your car care routine. They soak up water like a champ, trap dirt without scratching surfaces, and help you get that perfect finish, whether you're working on the paint, windows, or interior. But if you're not washing them right, you're slowly ruining their performance.

microfiber drying towel on hood of green AutoManiacs car

Let's walk through the best way to wash and care for your microfiber towels so they keep performing like new, without damaging your car's surfaces or throwing money down the drain.

Step 1: Sort Before You Wash

Think of your towels like tools. Would you clean your windows with the same towel you used on dirty wheels? Nope.

Sort by use:

Glass towels - keep these separate to avoid streaks.
Interior towels - wipe down surfaces, but can collect grease.
Exterior/paint towels - likely have wax or polish residue.
Dirty towels (wheels, engine bay) - wash separately to prevent grit transfer.

Sorting helps prevent cross-contamination and keeps your "finishing" towels in top condition.

Step 2: Pick the Right Detergent

Your microfiber towels don't play well with just any laundry detergent. Avoid anything with fabric softeners, fragrances, or dye—those leave residues that clog the fibers and reduce absorbency.

Best options:

Microfiber-specific detergent (ideal)
Mild, fragrance-free liquid detergent (a good second)
Add ½ cup of white vinegar during the rinse cycle to help break down buildup.

Tip: Never use bleach—it degrades the fibers.

Step 3: Wash With Care

Microfiber may feel tough, but the fibers are sensitive to heat and friction.

Machine Wash:

Water Temp: Cold or warm (never hot)
Cycle: Gentle or normal
Rinse Cycle: Add an extra rinse to ensure no residue remains

Hand Wash (if you prefer):

Use a clean bucket or sink
Add a small amount of appropriate detergent
Rinse thoroughly

Step 4: Dry the Right Way

Dryer safe? Yes—but with caution.

Dryer setting: Low or no heat
No dryer sheets - they coat fibers with softener
Air-dry: Hang up on a clean line or rack if you want to be extra safe

Pro tip: Avoid drying with cotton items—they can leave lint in the microfiber.

Step 5: Store Smartly

Once dry, fold and store your towels in a clean, dry bin or drawer. Keep them away from dust, pet hair, and anything that could introduce debris.

And don't forget—just like your car's wax, microfiber towels wear out over time. If they feel stiff, stop absorbing well, or start leaving streaks, it's time to retire them to dirtier jobs or recycle them.

FAQ: Microfiber Towel Washing

How often should I wash microfiber towels?

Ideally, after each use. At a minimum, after every 2–3 uses, depending on how dirty they get.

Can I wash them with other clothes?

No. Avoid washing with cotton or anything that can shed lint.

Why do my towels feel less absorbent after a few washes?

It's usually detergent residue or fabric softener buildup. Wash again with vinegar in the rinse cycle.

Do I really need a microfiber-specific detergent?

It's best, but not mandatory. The key is to use something mild and avoid additives.

Final Thoughts

Taking proper care of your microfiber towels is one of the easiest ways to level up your entire car care routine. It protects your vehicle's surfaces, extends the life of your towels, and keeps your results looking sharp.

At AutoManiacs, we include high-quality microfiber towels in every kit—because we believe top results should come standard. Want to see the difference? Check out our latest kits and bundles here.