The Best Microfiber Towels for Every Detailing Task
Not all microfiber towels are created equal. The right towel can make the difference between a flawless, streak-free finish and a scratched surface. In this guide, we’ll break down the best microfiber towels for every step of detailing — from washing and drying to polishing and interior cleaning — so you can get pro results every time.
Estimated Reading Time: ~9 minutes
Why Microfiber Towels Matter
Microfiber towels are one of the most overlooked tools in detailing. They control how safely you clean, dry, and apply products. A low-quality towel can trap dirt, scratch paint, or leave lint, while a premium one will glide smoothly, absorb more water, and leave a perfect finish.
The trick is knowing which towel to use for each job — washing, drying, polishing, or interiors. Using the wrong type can cause swirl marks or dull your paint over time.
Quick Breakdown of Jimbo’s Towels
| Towel | Best For | GSM | Finish | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Everyday Microfiber | General cleaning, glass, interiors | 300 GSM | Low pile, lint-free | Shop Now |
| Orange Wash Microfiber | Contact washing, delicate paint | 390 GSM | High pile, ultra-soft | Shop Now |
| Softer Than Soft Towels | Polishing, coatings, sensitive paint | 550 GSM | Ultra-plush, edgeless | Shop Now |
| Massive Drying Towel | Drying entire vehicles | 1100 GSM | Twisted loop, streak-free | Shop Now |
1. Everyday Microfiber Towels – Your All-Purpose Workhorse
The Everyday Microfiber is the foundation of any good detailing setup. These 16x16” towels are durable, low-lint, and perfect for interiors, quick wipes, and glass cleaning. They’re designed for daily use without worrying about marring paint.
Best Uses:
- → Interior plastics and dash cleaning
- → Glass and mirrors
- → Quick detailer and interior sprays
Clean Smarter Every Day
Everyday Microfiber Towels are your go-to for glass, interiors, and quick wipe-downs — lint-free and durable.
Shop Everyday Microfiber Buy on Amazon2. Orange Wash Microfiber – The Safest Way to Wash Paint
The Orange Wash Microfiber towel is made for contact washing, especially on dark or sensitive paint. The thick, high-pile fibers lift dirt away from the surface, reducing swirl marks and friction during washing.
Pair it with The Super Soaper for the perfect slick, scratch-free wash.
3. Softer Than Soft Towels – For Final Wipes and Polishing
When you’re leveling coatings, wiping polish residue, or buffing for the final finish, nothing beats the Softer Than Soft Towels. Their ultra-plush, 550 GSM weave ensures zero micro-marring, even on jet-black paint.
Best Uses:
- → Leveling ceramic coatings
- → Final buff after polishing
- → Wiping glossy interior trim
Polish and Protect with Confidence
Softer Than Soft Towels deliver a flawless finish on the most delicate paint and trim surfaces.
Shop Softer Than Soft Towels Buy on Amazon4. Massive Drying Towel – Your One-Pass Solution
The Massive Drying Towel is the ultimate drying tool. Its 1100 GSM twisted-loop fibers absorb massive amounts of water without streaking or dragging across paint.
One towel can dry an entire SUV in minutes — and it won’t leave lint or scratches behind.
How to Wash and Maintain Microfiber Towels
To keep your towels performing like new:
- → Wash separately from cotton or lint-producing fabrics.
- → Use a microfiber-safe detergent — no fabric softener or bleach.
- → Air dry or tumble dry on low heat.
- → Store in sealed bins or bags to avoid dust contamination.
Pro Tips for Choosing the Right Towel
- → Use low-pile towels for glass and interiors.
- → Use plush, edgeless towels for paint and coatings.
- → Keep drying towels separate from your wash and polish towels.
- → Color-code your towels by task to prevent cross-contamination.
Related Reading
- How to Dry Your Car Without Scratching It
- How to Wash Your Car Without Swirl Marks
- How to Clean and Maintain Your Detailing Towels
- The Ultimate DIY Car Detailing Guide
FAQs
What does GSM mean for microfiber towels?
GSM stands for grams per square meter. The higher the GSM, the thicker and more absorbent the towel. Lower GSM towels (300–400) are great for interiors, while higher GSM towels (550+) are ideal for paint and drying.
Can I use one towel for the whole car?
It’s not recommended. Use dedicated towels for specific tasks to prevent scratching or residue buildup.
Why are some towels edgeless?
Edgeless towels prevent the stitched seams from marring sensitive paint or trim.
What’s the best towel for ceramic coatings?
The Softer Than Soft Towel — it’s ultra-plush and perfect for final wipes or coating leveling.
How long do microfiber towels last?
With proper care, premium towels can last 100+ washes. Rotate older towels for dirtier jobs like wheels or door jambs.
