What's the Latest on Microfiber Cleaning?
Back in February, Bob Croft posted an article over at Cleanlink.com about his recent favorable experiences with microfiber. His article, which is brief and mostly focuses on the benefits in chemical-reduction, prompted some research into microfibers and their track-record so far in the industry.
For starters, a little history will remind us that although microfiber is considered "modern" here in the U.S., it's been used consistently in Europe for over 20 years. Laura Bayard wrote a great article for Housekeeping Solutions on microfibers in 2004
in which she details how microfibers work. She quotes an industry specialist who describes it like this: "You take a fiber about the size of a human hair and it’s basically split into 16 different segments." The smaller fiber size allows it to penetrate deeper into crevices and porous surfaces. In addition, Bayard points out that the same process that splits the fibers also give them a static charge that, when dry, causes dirt to cling to the microfibers. “If you wipe over a floor, the dirt is going to stick to it,” Bayard has another specialist saying. “When you pick a regular cotton mop off the floor, the dirt tends to fall off.”
There are safety benefits as well. According to Bayard's article, far less liquid is used in microfiber mops than in traditional cotton versions. The microfiber mops are lighweight, weighing only 2 pounds, therefore reducing the risk of employee injury from over-exertion as well as decreasing the chance of a slip-and-fall accident. In addition, the microfiber mophead is more easily and cheaply replaced than the cotton mop, making it more sanitary. Understandably, medical facilities in particular have been eager to experiment with microfiber in recent years, with many making the transition shortly thereafter.
Reports are not without criticism, and by far the loudest have been "expensive" and "ineffective at cleaning large spills." Both are fair, but proponets are quick to point out that with huge reductions in chemicals and water the savings are quick and tangible. The intangibles-- health benefits and ease-of-use for employees-- are harder to see but emerge over time. As for the second criticism, microfiber supporters admit that the "wonder mops" were made for routine cleaning, not large messes. But even here advances are reportedly being made that will outfit microfiber for ultra-absorption, making it possible to clean big spills with a small pad.
All in all, no major criticisms for microfiber could be found. If you're interested in the cost-benefit breakdown of microfiber, check out this helpful article from Cleanlink.
Other microfiber resources:
Cleaning Healthy With Mircofiber
