Can You Put Microfiber Cloths in the Dryer? Yes — But Only If You Do It Right

The Laundry Rule I Ignored

Growing up, my mom had very specific laundry rules. Towels had their own folding method. Socks stayed far from sheets. And fuzzy items? They never touched the dryer.

When I moved out, I proudly tossed everything — including microfiber cloths — into the dryer. Big mistake.

Soon, those once-soft, super-absorbent cloths became stiff, scratchy, and useless. Turns out, mom was right. Now, I’m here to help you avoid the same laundry disaster.

Yes, You Can Dry Microfiber — But There’s a Catch

Microfiber cloths are delicate, high-performance cleaning tools made from synthetic fibers like polyester and polyamide. While you can dry them in a machine, you must use low heat and skip any additives.

High heat and fabric softeners can damage the cloths and reduce their lifespan dramatically.

Why Heat Is a Dealbreaker

Let’s get science-y for a second. Microfiber’s power lies in its tiny split fibers — thinner than human hair. These fibers trap dust and absorb liquid like magic.

But expose them to high heat, and they melt or fuse together. That turns your magical cleaner into just another rag.

The solution? Dry on low or no heat. Use your dryer’s air fluff or tumble dry low setting.

Never Use Fabric Softener

This one’s non-negotiable: no fabric softener — liquid or sheets.

Softener leaves a waxy coating on the fibers, destroying their absorbency. It might make them feel smoother, but that defeats their purpose.

If you’ve used softener once, try rewashing with hot water and vinegar. But it’s better not to risk it at all.

How to Wash Microfiber Cloths Properly

Microfiber needs a bit of TLC:

• Wash separately, especially from cotton. Microfiber attracts lint like a magnet.

• Use cold water and mild liquid detergent.

• Avoid any soap with fragrances, bleach, or boosters.

• Choose a gentle cycle and don’t overload the machine.

For Really Dirty Cloths

Got grease, grime, or car gunk on your microfiber? Don’t worry.

• Rinse by hand under warm water to remove the worst.

• Soak in vinegar water (¼ cup vinegar per gallon of warm water) for 15–30 minutes.

• Then toss them in the washer.

This method cuts through oils without damaging the fabric.

Best Drying Practices

After washing, shake out the cloths to fluff them.

If you have the time, air dry indoors. Hanging them outside on a breezy day? Be prepared for lint.

In a rush? Go ahead and toss them in the dryer — but only on low or no heat. And again: never add dryer sheets.

How to Store Microfiber Cloths

Storage matters, too. Keep them in a clean, dry spot, away from linty items like towels.

I store mine in zip bags or plastic bins, especially when I keep extras in the car.

If you use different cloths for different tasks (windows, kitchen, car), label or color-code them. You don’t want to polish your glasses with a dashboard rag.

7 Signs It’s Time to Retire Your Microfiber Cloth

Even with the best care, microfiber doesn’t last forever. Expect around 100–500 washes, depending on use.

Here’s when to say goodbye:

• It feels rough.

• It loses absorbency.

• It just pushes water instead of soaking it.

• It leaves streaks on glass.

But don’t toss them immediately — they still make great garage or shop rags.

Bonus Tip: Use Distilled Water on Glass

Not dryer-related, but helpful:
When cleaning windows or mirrors, use distilled water instead of tap. Tap water has minerals that leave streaks.

Microfiber + distilled water = crystal clear glass with minimal effort.

Final Verdict: Dryer Yes, But Handle with Care

Yes, you can dry microfiber cloths in the dryer — but only if you do it right:

• Low or no heat

• No dryer sheets

• Proper washing beforehand

Treat them well, and they’ll last for years. Trust me — your screens, counters, and windows will thank you.

And maybe, just maybe, your mom was right all along.