Simple question,

I am trying to figure out how to get the MF towels clean and "static free".

I wash in the machine (towels only) and then air dry, but I still get a lot of static left such that when wiping down after a PC run with swirl remover or polymer, I get dust all over the place.

Any solutions?

 

You will find that in dry conditions, polishing or wiping off any plastic surface will generate quite a bit of static.
You have no idea of the issues I started with Porsche of Germany, front headlights, and MF's.
Ever put a Carerra in the shop just for polishing out headlights wih a PC and MF? LOL.......
Back on a serious note, low humidity, plastic parts, and polishing will generate static. Consider light spritzes of water while removing products to cut down on static.

 

You say your getting dust?

What products you using .

I wash my M/F exactly the same way .. Dawn in the washing machine then I hang them to dry .. no fabric softener. And no static.

Maybe your using too much product and its dusting and the M/F isn't capable of picking it up.

 

I learned to cust the stitching off an MF cloth. it may start to fall apart but the stitching will show the swirls/ wiping on a black car.

 

I know that we're supposed to wash MF towels with other MF towels, no other items in the machine.

What do you guys do when you only have a few dirty MF towels and don't want to wash them until you have more?

I keep them wet in a bucket at the moment, as I don't want the dirt to get dry with the towel. Any comment, please?

 

Dunno what dirt your talking about but I keep mine in a pail with a lid but I make sure they are dry before going in there to prevent mildewing.

 

I guess if its just a few you could put them in a ziplock baggy. But I wouldnt want to put wet ones in there. You could also wash them by hand. I mean if there sitting in a bucket of water, you might as well add a little detergent or APC and wash them! Just make sure to rinse real well........

 

Hey jess how much dawn are you putting in the washing machine? I have about 15 towels 16x16 towels that I am thinking about washing.

 

I put in a couple of table spoons of it .. you don't want too much as it can suds a bunch.

Another trick I use is when the rinse cycle kicks in pour in a 1/2 cup of white vinegar ..

 

I was afraid of the suds, as though I dont want it to start coming out of the washer. But thanks alot!!!!

My cousins accidently washed in regular detergent and with other towels. So hoping this will remove any of the lint that is on the MFs.

Ill keep in mind the white vinegar too

 

oh no...what happens if we use detergent other than Dawn? Does it have to be Dawn?

 

Liquid soap will be fine .. I use Blue Dawn because it cuts dirt, grease and wax etc. Powdered laundry detergent unless totally pre dissolved can leave particles imbedded in the M/F nap and scratch the car.


Some other liquid dish soaps have scents in them and can cause sreaking and others have skin conditioners etc.

 

Error on the side of caution with the vinegar though. The acids will over time break down/weaken poly fibers.
Also, not to argue with Jess, but I have always used laundering detergent (same as I use on my clothes) figuring if Im taking better care of something I use on a car vs. what Im wearing on my back, i may have an issue or two. LOL
Also wash in HOT water.
Oh, another note on Dawn....Its harmless until mixed with water, Water is its activator. Too much in the machine may yield results less desirable then when using too little (If that makes any sense) It has to do with soluability.
Jess knows his ****, so try his methods, then maybe tweek a little for your own liking.....

 

Ya I forgot to mention I use HOT water too .. breaks down stuff in the towels better .. thus a better rinse out.


On the vinegar I should have added that its not an every time ... I do it when I suspect the towels are retaining product and causing streaking.


Vinegar is about 3% acitic acid and 1/2 cup to the odd wash has it pretty dilluted.


Damn it Patrick .. now you have me thinking .. I DO treat my car better than myself..

 

Sonus makes a good microfiber towel wash. I think they call it "Der Wunder Wasche" or something like that. It's pretty cheap and I've been using the same bottle for a bit over a year now. Everything always comes out quite clean and generally pretty static free.

It works on fabrics other than microfiber also

 

On that note, I can get Charliesoap, 128oz for about $25.00. I dont doubt the Sonus's effectiveness, but this may be the "better mousetrap".....Charliesoap is a revolutionary approach to laundry care. It does not cover up stains and odors with scents and brighteners - it really cleans. It is made with a unique blend of biodegradable coconut-based detergents and high-grade, completely soluble, Green River washing soda.

 

Yeah, sorry Excel, didn't mean to undermine any of your sales. I just figured if you had a product you would have mentioned it...

That's definitely a great price for such a big size, when I'm out of my Sonus I'll probably pick up some of your stuff and try it out.

 

Woolite works for me. It may not get out all the stains, but they come out nice and fluffy after they dry.

And I think static cling is a good thing. Attracts more dust and stays on the towel.

 

I use Micro-Restore, and wash all by hand and gets all the stains and dirt out.

 

That what I use as well and they come out very well.

 

I tried the spritz and it helps.

Also I have been using laundry detergent (All free and clear) but not HOT water. That was the key to getting all of the residual out of the towels.

I love this forum.

So much knowledge and experience and everyone willing to share.