Go Bold and Fold
When dusting with a microfiber cloth, many people typically use one full side to wipe down a dirty surface, then flip the cloth over to wipe down another surface with the reverse side. Now you’re out of options. If you try to clean a third surface, you’ll spread all the dust that’s already sitting on the cloth. This is where you may be tempted to reach for a clean cloth, but don’t do that just yet. There’s an easy method to get four times more cleaning power out of each cloth.
All you need to do? Fold the cloth into fourths before you start dusting, which gives you eight clean sides to work with. Wipe down one area, then turn or fold the cloth again and again until you’ve used all eight sides.
Now you can clean eight different surfaces without worrying about carrying dust from one spot to the next. The surface area of each side is smaller, but it’s the best way to limit cross-contamination. There’s also nothing stopping you from using two, three, or more sides to tackle an especially dusty area. The flexibility is key.
Other Major Microfiber Tips
Getting the most out of microfiber cloths isn’t just about increasing the number of available sides, of course. You also want to use them effectively. Take windows, for example. Wipe a dusty window with a damp cloth and walk away, and you’ll likely be left with unsightly steaks. Instead, clean windows and other glass surfaces with two cloths: one damp and one dry. Start by cleaning with the damp cloth, making sure it’s not soaking wet, then buff the glass with the dry cloth until any moisture is gone. Less leftover water means fewer streaks.
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Here’s another tip to cut down on waste: Use microfiber cloths instead of single-use Swiffer dusting pads. Affix the cloth to the end of your Swiffer or dusting mop and use it as normal. This eliminates the need to purchase more disposable pads, as you can wash and reuse the microfiber cloths.
