General surface wiping
Microfibre: excellent
Cotton: good
Microfibre vs Traditional Cloths — Module 2
Module 2 of 3
Microfibre vs Traditional Cloths · Module 2
Choosing the Right Cloth for the Job
Which cloth works best for each common task, where cotton still earns its place, and how to match the cloth to the surface and the risk.
- Free taster
- Module 2 of 3
- About 5 minutes
Free taster micro-course. This is a short introduction to the topic, not full professional training. For in-depth courses with assessments and certificates, see the CCMTec® Academy.
What you'll learn in this module
- Which cloth type works best for each cleaning task
- Where traditional cloths still have a place
- How to match your cloth to the surface and risk level
The right cloth, task by task
Microfibre isn't the best choice for every job. Here's how the two compare across the most common cleaning tasks.
Glass and mirrors
Microfibre: streak-free finish
Cotton: poor, leaves lint
High-touch points
Microfibre: excellent at removing germs, used with a disinfectant where required
Cotton: moderate
Large liquid spills
Microfibre: good
Cotton: excellent, soaks up a lot
Chrome and stainless steel
Microfibre: excellent polish
Cotton: poor, leaves lint and smears
Heavy scrubbing
Microfibre: not suitable, rough surfaces snag and wear the fibres
Cotton: tougher, but a scrubbing pad is usually better
Dusting and dry wiping
Microfibre: excellent, holds onto dust
Cotton: poor, spreads dust
Food contact surfaces
Microfibre: excellent with colour coding and a food-safe sanitiser
Cotton: moderate
Colour coding comes first
Whether you use microfibre or cotton, always follow your colour-coding system. The right colour in the right area is what prevents cross-contamination.
When traditional cloths still have a place
Cotton cloths are still useful for soaking up large spills, for applying wax or polish where microfibre would soak up too much product, and for single-use jobs where cost per use matters more than performance.
For most other professional cleaning tasks, microfibre is the better choice.
Want to go further?
Our full Academy courses cover topics like this in real depth, with practical guidance, assessments and certificates.
Explore full coursesDisclaimer: This micro-course is a general introduction to microfibre and traditional cloths and is not a substitute for full professional training. Always follow your employer's procedures and current guidance for your workplace.