How do you clean microfibre duster?

Microfibre dusters are a popular cleaning tool used to dust and clean surfaces in the home. Unlike traditional feather dusters, microfibre dusters use ultra-fine synthetic fibres that are able to trap and hold on to dust particles through static electricity. This makes them very effective at cleaning while not simply moving dust around. However, like any cleaning tool, microfibre dusters need to be cleaned regularly in order to keep them working effectively. A dirty microfibre duster will not attract and hold as much dust.

Why clean microfibre dusters?

There are a few key reasons why it is important to regularly clean microfibre dusters:

• Removes built-up dirt and dust – Over time, microfibre cloths and dusters will accumulate all the dust and dirt they have attracted. If not cleaned, this can make them less effective at cleaning.
• Sanitizes the microfibre – Dusters can harbor bacteria, allergens and other contaminants they have picked up. Washing sanitizes the microfibre and prevents the spread of germs.
• Preserves the microfibre material – Letting dust and dirt build up on the fibres can damage them over time and shorten the lifespan of the duster.
• Maintains absorption – Microfibres that are laden with dirt and oils will not absorb dust as well. Cleaning keeps them absorbent.
• Extends usage – Regular cleaning allows microfibre dusters to keep working optimally for longer before needing replacement.

Keeping microfibre dusters clean is vital for getting the most out of these useful cleaning tools. The cleaning method depends on how dirty the duster is and whether you need to sanitize it.

How often should you clean a microfibre duster?

Microfibre dusters should be cleaned regularly, about every 2-4 uses depending on how soiled they get. Here are some general guidelines on how often to clean a microfibre duster:

• Light use – Clean every 4-6 uses. If only used for dusting surfaces that are not highly soiled, the duster may only need washing this often.
• Moderate use – Clean every 2-4 uses. For general cleaning of surfaces around the home, aim to wash it at least this often.
• Heavy use – Clean after every use. If using the duster on dirtier areas like floors, appliances or cars, it will need frequent washing.
• Visible dirt – Wash when visibly soiled. Don’t let dust and debris visibly build up on the duster.
• Used on greasy surfaces – Clean after use on kitchens, bathrooms and other greasy areas which can clog the microfibre.
• Used in bathrooms – Sanitize after use in bathrooms to kill germs.

Check the duster after each use and watch for visible dirt. Erring on the side of more frequent cleaning will extend the usefulness of the duster.

How to Clean a Slightly Dirty Microfibre Duster

For microfibre dusters that are just lightly soiled from dusting:

1. Shake the duster vigorously outside or over a garbage can to remove loose dust and dirt.
2. If lightly dusty, refreshing in the dryer can revitalize the microfibre. Place in the dryer on air fluff for 5-10 minutes.
3. For a bit more cleaning, rinse the duster under lukewarm running water while rubbing the fibres together until the water runs clear.
4. Air dry thoroughly before use. Damp microfibre will not attract dust as well.

The key is to use minimal water so the microfibre retains its static charge for dusting. Simply refreshing or a quick rinse should clean a lightly soiled duster.

How to Wash a Heavily Soiled Microfibre Duster

For deeper cleaning of heavily soiled dusters:

1. Shake off loose debris outdoors or into a garbage bin.
2. Soak in warm water mixed with a small amount of mild laundry detergent. Let soak 5-10 minutes.
3. Agitate the microfibre by rubbing it together under the water or swirling it around to dislodge dirt.
4. Rinse thoroughly under warm running water until water runs clear.
5. Air dry or dry on low heat. High heat can damage the microfibre.

Soaking allows the detergent to break down oils and loosen ingrained dirt from the microfibre fibres. Agitation helps scrub out dirt while rinsing removes detergent residues.

Laundry Detergent Tips

• Use a small amount of mild, fragrance-free laundry detergent.
• Avoid fabric softeners which can coat the microfibre.
• Skip the dryer sheet for drying as it can leave residues.

Harsh detergents, softeners and dryer sheets can diminish the microfibre’s static charge that makes it work so well.

How to Sanitize a Microfibre Duster

To kill germs on a microfibre duster used in bathrooms or kitchens:

1. Wash normally with warm water and mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly.
2. Soak for 5 minutes in a sanitizing solution of 2 tablespoons bleach to 1 quart water.
3. Wring out gently and rinse well.
4. Air dry the duster thoroughly before reusing.

The bleach solution will sanitize the microfibre fabric and prevent transfer of bacteria and viruses from room to room. Be sure to rinse out all the bleach thoroughly after sanitizing.

Can You Put Microfibre Dusters in The Washing Machine?

Microfibre dusters can be washed in the washing machine but require some special care:

• Wash on a gentle cycle in cold water
• Use a mild detergent and skip fabric softener
• Air dry or dry on low temperature
• Use a mesh wash bag for the duster

The agitation of a washing machine can be rough on the delicate microfibres. Washing by hand is gentler, but the machine can be used if these precautions are followed:

Washing Machine Tips

• Zip duster in a mesh wash bag to prevent snags.
• Wash with towels or alone to avoid lint transfer.
• Hang to air dry or tumble dry low.

The key is to minimize agitation, use cool water and air dry to preserve the microfibre material.

How to Dry Microfibre Dusters

Proper drying is key to maintaining a microfibre duster’s dust-attracting abilities.

• Air dry – Hang or lay flat to air dry thoroughly before using. This preserves the static charge.
• Low heat – Tumble dry on low or no heat. High heat damages microfibre.
• No direct sun – Sunlight can fade duster colors over time.
• Away from dust – Don’t dry in dusty areas or the duster will collect dirt.

Damp or wet microfibre will not attract dust well. Ensure dusters are completely dry before putting them back into use.

How to Store Microfibre Dusters

Proper storage can help extend the useful life of microfibre dusters between washes:

• Hang or store in breathable fabric bag
• Avoid plastic bags or containers
• Store in a dry, dust-free area
• Don’t compress or overly wrinkle

Breathable storage allows the microfibre to stay fresh and dry between uses. Avoid storing damp dusters in sealed plastic which can promote mold and mildew growth.

Here are some good storage solutions:

• Hang on a hook or rod
• Lay flat in shelf or drawer
• Drape over hanger
• Mesh wash bags
• Woven baskets

Proper storage and regular cleaning will help microfibre dusters retain their dust trapping abilities and last for years.

Microfibre Duster Cleaning Tips

Tip	Reason
Shake out dust first	Removes loose dust before washing
Spot clean when possible	Preserves microfibres longer vs. frequent washing
Wash in cool water	Avoids damage from hot water
Limit detergent	Prevents buildup on microfibre
Agitate while washing	Loosens trapped dirt
Rinse thoroughly	Removes all detergent residue
Air dry completely	Retains static charge for dusting
Store dust-free	Keeps duster clean between uses

Following these tips when cleaning microfibre dusters will help maintain their dust-attracting ability and extend their lifespan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put microfibre dusters in the dryer?

Yes, microfibre dusters can go in the dryer but only on a low or no heat setting. High temperatures can damage the microfibres. It’s best to air dry when possible.

Do microfibre dusters wear out?

With proper care, microfibre dusters can last for several years. But over time, repeated washing and use will wear down the fibres. Replace when linting, fraying or loss of absorption occurs.

How do you revive a microfibre duster?

For a quick refresh, shake off dust and run on air fluff in the dryer for 5-10 minutes. For a deeper clean, wash in mild detergent, rinse thoroughly and air dry.

Can you wash microfibre dusters with regular towels?

It’s best to wash them separately as much as possible. Towels may lose lint that can cling to the microfibre. But occasional mixed washing is fine.

Do microfibre dusters streak?

A clean microfibre duster is less likely to streak. But using too much pressure or dusting dirty/greasy surfaces can cause streaks. Shake out dust frequently while using.

Conclusion

Microfibre dusters require regular cleaning to remove built-up dirt, restore absorption, and maintain their dust-attracting properties. Exact washing frequency depends on usage, but every 2-4 uses is a good guideline.

Shake, spot clean or air fluff lightly soiled dusters. For deeper cleaning, wash in mild detergent, rinse thoroughly and air dry completely. Sanitize with bleach if using in bathrooms.

Proper storage between uses and avoiding excessive heat when drying will also extend the usable life of microfibre dusters. Follow these cleaning tips and your microfibre dusters will keep removing dust effectively for years to come.