It's better after the first wash...

[EPHIOS]

Is it true that microfiber towels are better after the first wash? I read somewhere (www.autogeek.net) that Meguiar's Supreme Shine MF are PREwashed, so you get maximum absorbancy right away. Why is this?

[TOGWT]

Re: It's better after the first wash...

Using Micro fibre

The first thing you should do when you get a new micro fibre towel is to wash and dry it. During the manufacturing process the fabric has a tendency to become flat as it picks up contaminants from the air and machinery. There will also be a number of loose threads that, while they cause no harm, can be annoying the first time you use the towel. Some towel mfg use a chemical to make the fabric soft, theses chemicals should be removed by washing

Only use liquid detergents; never use dry detergents as many times the granules do not fully dissolve and become trapped in the towel. This can cause scratching of the surface you are cleaning.

When using microfiber towels, it’s best to wipe in a single direction until all visible dust and contamination is removed, flipping the towel frequently. A good microfiber cannot unload particles without being immersed in water. If you wipe back and forth while quick detailing, you will be rubbing the dirt you pick up back and forth over the paint. Water provides the necessary surface lubrication. Simply wet the towel with clean water and wring as dry as possible, use it damp, if the cloth is too wet it will leave streaks. Wet – Wring – Wipe If the towel becomes too dirty, it will begin to streak; it is then time to wash the towel.

[Andrew C.]

Re: It's better after the first wash...

I haven't noticed it with a Supreme Shine, but it definitely seems to hold true with a Water Magnet.

[J. A. Michaels]

Re: It's better after the first wash...

I wash them all at first. Never know how long they have been sitting on the shelf. Could have dirt trapped in them. Then its oops, I just scratched the paint.