Best Microfiber Towel Setup for Beginners
If you’re just getting into detailing, picking the right microfiber towels can feel overwhelming. Here's the exact towel kit setup you need to confidently clean your car—without scratching the paint or breaking the bank.
What Types of Microfiber Towels Do You Really Need?
Here’s the simple microfiber setup that works for 90% of beginners:
- Drying Towel: Use one large, absorbent towel specifically designed for paint drying. It should be high GSM and extremely soft.
- Wash Towel: This is your contact wash towel—low to medium GSM, plush, safe on paint, and cost-effective.
- Utility Towels: These are your workhorse towels for interiors, door jambs, wheels, and engine bays.
Jimbo's Recommended Starter Towel Kit
- Softer Than Soft Towels — For paint, final wipes, and sensitive surfaces (550 GSM)
- Orange Wash Microfiber Towel — Perfect for contact washing with The Super Soaper
- Everyday Microfiber Towels — Use these for wheels, interiors, and anything that gets dirty
How Many of Each Towel Should You Have?
Start with 2 of each towel type. That gives you enough to rotate between washes without cross-contaminating surfaces.
Example Beginner Kit:
- 2x Softer Than Soft for paint and final wipe-downs
- 2x Orange Wash Microfiber for washing
- 4–6x Everyday Microfiber for everything else
Want to go deeper? Check out our full guide: The Ultimate Microfiber Towel Guide
Why This Setup Works
This combo avoids the two biggest beginner mistakes:
- Using one towel for everything
- Buying huge cheap packs that scratch paint and fall apart
Pro Tip: Color Code Your Towels
Assign a color for each job: one for paint, one for interior, one for wheels. It’s an easy way to stay organized and avoid cross-contamination.
Ready to Build Your Setup?
Click below to grab your beginner-friendly microfiber essentials:
FAQs
How many microfiber towels do I really need to start?
Start with at least two towels for each use: drying, washing, and general cleanup. A total of 6–8 is a great beginner base.
Can I just buy one kind of microfiber towel and use it for everything?
You can, but it's risky. Using one towel for all jobs increases the chance of scratching paint or leaving residue on sensitive areas. Use the right towel for the right job.
