Microfiber vs. Terry Cloth: Which is Better for Cloths & Towels?
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Two of the most common materials used for cleaning cloths and towels are microfiber and terry cloth. Whether you’re cleaning your house, car, or something else, your work will be easier and more effective if you use the right products.
For many people, the question of microfiber vs. terry cloth is difficult to answer. Both materials have unique benefits and drawbacks, making it tough to know which is suitable for your needs.
In this article, we’ll look at both materials and explore the pros and cons of each one. By the end, you should better understand which option is best for you.
What is Microfiber?
Microfiber is a synthetic fiber made from polyester, nylon, or a combination of the two. It’s noted for its high absorbency and ability to trap dirt and dust. Microfiber cloths are often used for cleaning because they can effectively remove stubborn dirt and grime.
One of the benefits of microfiber is that it doesn’t require the use of chemicals to get rid of dirt and grime. Instead, you can clean simply with water. The fibers are so tightly woven together that they can effectively lift away dirt without needing harsh cleaners. This makes microfiber an excellent choice for people looking for a more natural way to clean their homes.
In addition to being good at trapping dirt, microfiber is also very absorbent. This means that it can quickly soak up spills, making it ideal for cleaning up messes. The absorbency of microfiber also makes it a good choice for use as a towel. When you’re done using it, simply wring out the water and hang it up to dry.
What is Terry Cloth?
Terry cloth is a type of fabric made from 100% cotton. It’s noted for its absorbency and softness, making it a popular choice for towels and washcloths. The fabric is also often used for clothing, such as robes.
One of the benefits of terry cloth is that it’s very absorbent. This means that it can quickly soak up water, making it ideal for use as a towel. When you’re done using it, simply wring out the water and hang it up to dry.
Terry cloth is also soft, which makes it comfortable to use on your skin. This makes it a good choice for people looking for a gentle way to clean their bodies. The fabric is also less likely to irritate than other materials, making it a good choice for people with sensitive skin.
Terry cloth is also durable and easy to care for. Unlike other materials, it can be machine-washed and dried without special care. This makes it a low-maintenance option that is easy to keep clean.
Microfiber vs. Terry Cloth Comparison
Let’s look at the specifics to see how microfiber and terry cloth compare head-to-head.
The Similarities of Microfiber and Terry Cloth
Microfiber and terry cloth share a few similarities. Both materials are:
- Durable
- Easy to care for
- Absorbent
- Effective for cleaning and drying
Both of these materials are popular choices for cleaning cloths and towels because they’re effective for the reasons listed above.
How They’re Made
Although microfiber and terry cloth are both popular choices for cloths and towels, they are made in very different ways.
Microfiber is made from synthetic fibers, while terry cloth is made from natural cotton fibers.
This difference in materials means microfiber is more resistant to shrinkage and fading than terry cloth. However, terry cloth is less likely to pill or shed over time. Things that are good to know and consider when determining microfiber vs. terry cloth for your cleaning needs.
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Durability and Longevity
How microfiber and terry cloth are made also affects their durability and longevity.
Since microfiber is made from synthetic fibers, it’s more resistant to wear and tear than terry cloth. This means that microfiber cloths and towels will last longer and stand up to repeated washings better than terry cloth.
Terry cloth is made from natural fibers, which makes it less durable than microfiber. However, cotton is a strong material, so terry cloth can still last for quite a while with proper care.
Versatility
Microfiber and terry cloth are versatile materials that can be used for various purposes.
Both microfiber and terry cloth can be used as cleaning cloths. Microfiber is especially good at removing stubborn dirt and grime, while terry cloth is more effective at absorbing spills.
Both microfiber and terry cloth can also be used as towels. Microfiber is very absorbent, while terry cloth is soft and gentle on the skin.
Terry cloth is also often used to make clothing, such as robes and sweatpants. Microfiber can also be used for clothing, but it’s not as common.
Softness
The way that microfiber and terry cloth are made affects their softness.
Terry cloth is made from natural cotton fibers, which makes it soft to the touch. One of the reasons why terry cloth is a popular choice for towels and bathrobes is because it feels plush and luxurious.
Microfiber is made from synthetic fibers, which makes it less soft than terry cloth. However, microfiber is often treated with a softening agent during manufacturing. This helps to make microfiber towels and cloths feel softer and more gentle on the skin.
| Image | Product | Our Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall  | E-Cloth General Purpose Cleaning Cloth
| 9.8 | Check Price on Amazon |
Best for Electronics  | MagicFiber Microfiber Cleaning Cloths, 6 PACK
| 9.6 | Check Price on Amazon |
Best for Cars  | Chemical Guys MIC_506_03 Professional Grade Premium Microfiber Towels
| 9.6 | Check Price on Amazon |
Absorbency
Both microfiber and terry cloth are absorbent materials, but they have different levels of absorbency.
Terry cloth is more absorbent than microfiber, making it better at soaking up spills. However, microfiber is still more absorbent than most other materials.
The level of absorbency also affects how long it takes for the towel or cloth to dry. Terry cloth absorbs more water than microfiber, so drying takes longer. Microfiber towels and cloths can be hung up to air-dry quickly.
Care and Maintenance
The care and maintenance requirements for microfiber and terry cloth vary depending on the item.
Most microfiber towels and cloths can be machine-washed and dried without special care. However, some items may require special care. For example, microfiber beach towels may need to be line-dried to prevent shrinkage.
Terry cloth items can also be machine-washed and dried, but they may require special care to prevent shrinkage. For example, terry cloth robes may need to be hung up to air-dry.
Variety
There is a lot of variety when it comes to microfiber and terry cloth.
Microfiber is available in various colors, textures, and weights. This makes it easy to find the perfect microfiber towel or cloth for your needs.
Terry cloth is also available in a wide range of colors, textures, and weights.
Regarding prints and patterns, microfiber has the edge over terry cloth. Microfiber can be printed with any design imaginable, while terry cloth is usually only available in solid colors or simple patterns.
Price
The price of microfiber and terry cloth varies depending on the type of item.
In general, microfiber towels and cloths are more expensive than terry cloth. This is because microfiber costs more to manufacture since it is synthetic.
However, there’s a wide range of prices for microfiber and terry cloth items. It’s possible to find inexpensive towels and cloths made from either material. It’s also possible to find expensive items, such as luxury bathrobes made from high-quality terry cloth.
When it comes to value, microfiber and terry cloth are similar. Both materials are durable and long-lasting, so that you can expect a lot of use from them.
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Microfiber vs. Terry Cloth: Which is better?
So, which material is better? Microfiber or terry cloth? The answer to this question depends on your needs.
If you’re looking for a material that’s good at trapping dirt and dust, microfiber is a good choice. The fibers are very effective at lifting away even stubborn dirt and grime. In addition, microfiber doesn’t require the use of harsh chemicals to get rid of dirt. You can simply clean with water.
Related: The Best Microfiber Cloths for Cleaning Your Home
Terry cloth is a good choice if you’re looking for a more absorbent material. This makes it ideal for use as a towel since it can quickly soak up spills. Terry cloth is also softer than microfiber, making it more comfortable.
One factor to consider is that terry cloth towels sometimes leave some lint or fibers behind. So even though it is more absorbent, you may be unsatisfied with the results if you’re looking for perfection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are microfiber and terry cloth the same?
No, microfiber and terry cloth are not the same. Microfiber is made from synthetic fibers, while terry cloth is made from natural fibers. Terry cloth is also more absorbent than microfiber.
Is terry cloth or microfiber better?
The answer to this question depends on your needs. If you’re looking for a material that’s good at trapping dirt and dust, microfiber is a good choice. The fibers are very effective at lifting away even stubborn dirt and grime. In addition, microfiber doesn’t require the use of harsh chemicals to get rid of dirt. You can simply clean with water.
Terry cloth is a good choice if you’re looking for a more absorbent material. This makes it ideal for use as a towel since it can quickly soak up spills. Terry cloth is also softer than microfiber, making it more comfortable.
Is microfiber or terry cloth more expensive?
In general, microfiber towels and cloths are more expensive than terry cloth. This is because microfiber costs more to manufacture since it is synthetic.
What is terry cloth used for?
Terry cloth is commonly used for making towels and washcloths. It’s also often used to make robes, upholstery, and other household items.
What is microfiber made of?
Microfiber is made from synthetic fibers, usually polyester or polyamide. These fibers are very thin, which gives microfiber its unique properties.
Why is terry cloth used to make towels?
Terry cloth is used to make towels because it’s absorbent. The loops in the fabric help to quickly soak up spills, making it ideal for use as a towel. It’s also very soft and plush, which makes for a comfortable towel.
Is microfiber made of cotton?
No, microfiber is not made of cotton. Microfiber is made from synthetic fibers, such as polyester or polyamide. Cotton is a natural fiber, while microfiber is synthetic.
Is terry cloth good for cleaning?
Yes, terry cloth is good for cleaning. The fabric is absorbent, so it can quickly soak up spills. Additionally, the loops in the fabric help lift dirt and dust away.
Why do microfiber towels feel rough?
Microfiber towels feel rough because of the way they are made. The fibers are very thin, which gives microfiber its unique properties. However, this also makes the fabric less smooth and more abrasive, while being better for cleaning can make it feel harsher on the skin.
How long do microfiber cloths last?
Microfiber cloths can last for years with proper care. Some microfiber products come with a guarantee in terms of how long they can be used and how many washes before they need to be replaced.
Related: Best Microfiber Towels
Microfiber vs. Terry Cloth: Final Thoughts
If you’re trying to decide between microfiber and terry cloth, the best way to decide is to think about what you’ll be using the item for. Once you know what you need, it will be easier to choose the suitable material.
The microfiber vs. terry cloth comparison can be summed up like this: microfiber is a good choice if you’re looking for something effective at trapping dirt and dust (like cleaning cloths). Terry cloth is a good choice if you’re looking for a more absorbent material (like towels).