The Best Car Microfiber Towels

We’ve used hundreds of different microfiber towels over the course of our automotive lives. From cheap as heck Amazon products to luxurious offerings from Meguiar’s and Chemical Guys. We’ve bought towels from retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, Autozone, and everywhere in between. Suffice it to say, we know what we’re looking for and that’s absorption rate, size, quantity in the package, color-coding, percentage of polyamide, and types of microfiber. We put emphasis on brands we know and trust, but also threw in some that were worth the bargain-basement pricing. What we have left is what we think are some solid options for your next microfiber towel buy.

For the best of the best (and a few extra towels), we recommend checking out the Meguiar’s X2000 Water Magnet Microfiber Drying Towel (3 Pack). Another great microfiber towel option is the SINLAND 720gsm Ultra Thick Plush Microfiber Car Cleaning Towels.

You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers. 

A. They're reusable and durable. Microfiber towels have the ability to retain a lot of water, but that doesn't affect their construction. You can use them over and over again, which can save you money. Many automotive enthusiasts use microfiber towels when detailing their vehicles because they are long-lasting and can be washed numerous times. They're ideal for painted and glass surfaces.

But most importantly: They won't harm your vehicle's surface. The best microfiber towels are designed to be streak- and spot-free. Rougher materials may scratch your vehicle's paint and leave lint behind

A. There is no specific amount, but the towel should avoid just pushing the water around as you clean the surface.

A. Thickness: Generally, thicker microfiber towels are better for car detailing. They absorb more wax and polish and are less likely to leave streaks behind. Some towels are measured in grams per square meter (gsm). Lighter towels have a lower gsm and tend to be the least expensive. Those with around 200 gsm are fine for towel drying a vehicle.

Size: You can find microfiber car towels in a variety of sizes, but the best ones for detailing are between 12 by 12 inches to 16 by 27 inches (or the size of a hand towel). Smaller, more lightweight towels are best for cleaning a vehicle's interior as well as its mirrors and windows. Use larger towels for the exterior surface.

Material: Most microfiber towels are 80 percent polyester and 20 percent polyamide, so they are soft and absorbent. Those with a higher level of polyamide are more absorbent, while those with more polyester are more likely to leave lint behind. Most brands are very careful about the composition and the ability of the towels to remove dirt and debris.

A. Waffle Texture: Many microfiber towels feature a waffle texture with small depressions on the cloth. They are very absorbent because they have higher surface areas and are great to use after you've washed your vehicle. You can also use waffle microfiber towels to clean areas such as the tires and chrome.

Suede Texture: Towels with a suede microfiber texture are ideal when you're polishing your car, truck, or SUV. They have a smooth and satiny feeling to them and are perfect for polishing metal and chrome items on your vehicle. Ultimately, it's a personal preference when it comes to waffle or suede-style microfiber towels.

Medium and Long Pile: If you want to remove wax, look for a medium pile microfiber towel. They can also be used to remove water and are best for basic cleaning. They're not designed for delicate surface areas. Long pile towels are the softest and are ideal for buffing. They are very absorbent and will shine up a finish without scratching it.

A. Quantity: If you detail your vehicle on a regular basis, you may want to buy a value pack with several towels included. That way, you won't run out when you're in the middle of cleaning. Some packs have three to six towels, while others may feature 12, 50, or more. You'll save more money if you buy in bulk.

Ease of Use: The main purpose of a microfiber towel is to clean a vehicle's surface area without leaving streaks or marks behind. The towel should be easy to use and should not make your job harder. The best microfiber towels quickly and easily absorb water and are easy to wring out.

Color: Professional car detailers are sticklers when it comes to organizing their cleaning supplies. The benefit of color-coding your microfiber towels is that you won't accidentally transfer one product onto the wrong towel. Microfiber towels are available in a variety of different shades, depending on your personal preference.Quality: A high-quality microfiber towel will resist tearing or ripping after a few uses.

Material: Each towel manufacturer uses slightly different materials for their microfiber cloth surfaces, so test a few out before buying one to get a sense of how each one performs.