10 Surprising Uses for Microfiber Cloths Beyond Cleaning

Microfiber cloths are versatile household tools that can be used for much more than just cleaning.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 9:55am

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Microfiber cloths are known for their cleaning power, but experts say they can be used for a variety of unexpected purposes around the house and garden. From protecting plants to cleaning tools and furniture, these cloths are surprisingly multi-functional.

Why it matters

As a relatively new cleaning tool, microfiber cloths have become a household staple due to their effectiveness and durability. However, their versatility extends far beyond just cleaning, providing useful applications in the home, garden, and more.

The details

Microfiber cloths can be used as makeshift oven mitts, plant ties, tool cleaners, outdoor furniture wipers, bug traps, and more. Their fine fibers allow them to effectively pick up dirt, grime, and moisture without leaving behind lint or fibers. Experts recommend keeping extra microfiber cloths on hand for a variety of household needs.

  • Microfiber cloths were invented in the 1970s and popularized for cleaning in the 1990s.

The players

Elizabeth Shields

The Operations Manager of Super Cleaning Service Louisville.

Michael Clarke

A landscape architect, horticulturalist, and founder of Yardwork.

Steve Corcoran

The CEO of Lawn Love.

Mike Fretto

The Creative Director at Neighbor.

Carr Lanphier

The CEO of Improovy.

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What they’re saying

“Sometimes, when all of my oven mitts are in the wash, a triple folded, dry microfiber cloth saves the day. So, always keep an extra in the drawer, just in case.”

— Elizabeth Shields, Operations Manager (Southern Living)

“Microfiber cloths can be used as DIY plant ties by cutting them into strips and using them as soft ties for training vines, tomatoes, or climbing roses. They're gentle on stems and weather-resistant, making them a good alternative to regular plant ties.”

— Michael Clarke, Landscape Architect, Horticulturalist, and Founder (Southern Living)

“Microfiber cloths are great to use when cleaning your garden tools. It's important to clean these tools in order to prevent them from rusting and to prevent damage to plants, like spreading diseases. The great thing about microfiber cloths is that the material has such fine fibers that it is really able to pick up the most dirt and grime. Plus, it is great for drying tools effectively.”

— Steve Corcoran, CEO (Southern Living)

“Microfiber cloths are great for cleaning your outdoor tables. It's fun to be able to eat outside during the summer when the weather is nice, but it's annoying to have to constantly clean it due to how quickly dirt, pollen, and other debris accumulate. Microfiber cloths can be super helpful here. They pick up a lot more than regular towels or paper towels do, so the task of wiping your table down before using it can be completed in far less time. The faster the task, the less annoying it is!”

— Mike Fretto, Creative Director (Southern Living)

“Having a rag on hand to quickly wipe up paint drips or any other type of mishap like this while you're painting your home's interior is essential, and since microfiber cloths won't 'shed' the way other types of fabric will, they're great for quickly taking care of drips or excess paint without leaving anything behind to mess up your finish. I also love them for cleaning painted surfaces in general, since they are soft, don't shed fibers or lint, and can clean paint without any risk of damage (as long as you're gentle). This is especially the case with more matte finishes, which can be removed from a surface with too much wiping or too harsh a brush or cloth.”

— Carr Lanphier, CEO (Southern Living)

The takeaway

Microfiber cloths are a versatile household tool that can be used for far more than just cleaning. From protecting plants to cleaning tools and furniture, these cloths offer a wide range of unexpected uses that can save time and effort around the home and garden.