Microfiber Towels vs Chamois: What’s Safer?
Still using a chamois to dry your car? It might be doing more harm than good. In this post, we break down the real differences between microfiber towels and chamois—and which is safer for your paint.
What Is a Chamois?
Chamois (pronounced “shammy”) towels are made from leather or synthetic leather. They’ve been used for years in car drying because of their smooth surface and high water absorption. But here’s the problem—they have almost zero pile height.
Why That’s a Problem
When you drag a chamois across your paint, any grit or minerals sitting on the surface get pressed directly into the clear coat. No cushion = higher risk of scratching.
Microfiber Towels: Designed for Safety
Microfiber towels use ultra-fine, looped fibers that lift dirt and trap particles within the towel itself. That keeps them off your paint.
- ✅ High-pile microfiber = better protection
- ✅ Better absorption with less pressure
- ✅ Safer on coatings and dark paint
Still using a chamois?
Switch to the Massive Drying Towel for safer, faster results
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Chamois | Microfiber Towel |
|---|---|---|
| Absorption | Good | Excellent |
| Safety on paint | Low (no pile height) | High (traps dirt safely) |
| Swirl/scratch risk | High | Very low |
| Best use | Old-school detailing | Modern, safe detailing |
Recommended Microfiber Towels
- Massive Drying Towel – For large panels, fast drying, zero pressure
- Orange Wash Microfiber Towel – For contact washes and quick drying
- Everyday Microfiber Towels – For glass, trim, interior wipe-downs
Want More Towel Tips?
- Best Towels for Drying a Car Without Scratches
- How to Wash Microfiber Towels the Right Way
- Why Cheap Microfiber Towels Can Ruin Your Paint
