10 reasons why you should use microfibre cloths

What to know:

1. There are four choices of microfibre cloth for different tasks: polishing, general purpose, super-absorbent waffle weave and buffing. Plush-pile buffing cloths are great for bringing out the shine on surfaces.

2. Use a flat-weave polishing cloth on computers or phones to avoid scratches.

3. Colour code your microfibre cloths for the kitchen, bathroom and other areas.

The microfibre cloth is a blend of polyester and polyamide (nylon) and is comprised of micro fibres up to 50 times finer than a human hair for high powered cleaning. Here’s how to get more done:

1. The general-purpose microfibre cloth has a small electrostatic charge which makes it very effective for dusting, used damp or dry.

2. For electronics and glassware, wipe grime away with a polishing cloth and some multi-purpose cleaner. A microfibre polishing cloth doesn’t pick up debris, so are the best choice to avoid scratching screens.

3. While holding that polishing cloth, this is a good opportunity to make your specs sparkle and get a clear view on the world.

4. Get some microfibre on the move. Whip a general purpose cloth into the car glove box, and then when you are stuck in traffic you can wipe those dusty dashboard dials.

5. Banish tile and grouting grubbiness by applying Handy Andy cream with a sponge or toothbrush. Then wipe away with a damp general purpose cloth.

6. Make stainless steel appliances and cabinets shiny by spraying with Handy Andy ActiFizz and wiping off with a buffing cloth.

7. Clean your bath with Handy Andy Power Cream Active Shield Bathroom and a general purpose microfibre cloth. Then polish with a buffing cloth.

8. The fridge can harbour a variety of bacteria. Clean the fridge by removing the contents, cleaning with Handy Andy Power Cream Active Shield Kitchen, then wipe out with a general purpose cloth. Work from top to bottom and finally wipe up any mess at the base.

9. Get a professional, streak-free surface on glass cupboards, windows and mirrors. Spray with Handy Andy ActiFizz and then snake from top to bottom with a polishing cloth that shines and removes residue at the same time.

10. A waffle weave cloth is super absorbent for drying wet dishes or surfaces. A small waffle weave towel is also handy to dry wet hair quickly, and they are handy when camping or backpacking.

Caring for your cloths

A microfibre cloth can last a long time, which means they are good for the environment.

• Rinse off debris before laundering.

• Wash in the machine with other microfibre cloths.

• Air dry or tumble dry on a low heat.

• Don’t use bleach or fabric conditioner.

Know your cloths:

• Microfibre cloths commonly have a GSM – or grams per square metre – classification.

• The higher the GSM, the heavier and thicker the cloth.

• For general use, look for a GSM between 200 and 350.

• A GSM rating higher than 350 indicates a very plush buffing cloth.

• Microfibre is good at collecting bacteria, but for cleaning toilets, it’s recommended to have one cloth dedicated to this task. Or use bathroom-only rubber gloves and bio-degradable anti-bacterial wipes that are disposed of in the bin.

A microfibre cloth has millions of tiny strands that act like a huge sponge. Able to absorb up to 8 times their own weight in water, microfibre cloths are ideal for large spills.