How to Wash Norwex Cloths Care Guide

Understanding Norwex Cloth Materials and Construction

Norwex cloths are made from a blend of polyester and polyamide microfiber, a synthetic material engineered specifically for cleaning tasks. The microfiber construction features millions of tiny fibers that are approximately 1/100th the diameter of a human hair. This ultra-fine structure allows the cloths to trap dirt, dust, bacteria, and moisture far more effectively than traditional cotton or paper towels.

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The company manufactures several cloth varieties, each designed for specific purposes. The basic cleaning cloths work well for general household surfaces, while specialized versions include the OptiMmicrofiber cloth for streak-free window and glass cleaning, the EnviroCloth for kitchen surfaces, and the BacLock cloth, which contains antimicrobial properties through silver ion technology. Understanding which cloth type you own helps determine the most appropriate washing method.

The microfiber composition means these cloths perform differently than conventional fabrics during washing and drying. Standard laundry practices can damage the fibers or reduce the cloth's cleaning effectiveness. The delicate nature of the microfiber structure requires attention to water temperature, detergent type, and drying methods to maintain the cloth's original performance characteristics.

Most Norwex cloths are designed to last approximately three years with proper care. A typical household might use these cloths for dusting, kitchen cleanup, bathroom cleaning, and window washing multiple times weekly. This frequent use makes understanding proper maintenance especially important, as incorrect washing can significantly shorten the cloth's lifespan or compromise its cleaning ability.

Practical Takeaway: Identify which Norwex cloth varieties you own before washing, as different types may have slightly different care requirements. Check the product label or Norwex website to confirm the specific materials in your cloths.

Pre-Washing Preparation and Stain Treatment

Before placing Norwex cloths in the washing machine, proper preparation prevents staining, reduces odors, and improves cleaning results. Start by rinsing the cloths under warm running water immediately after use. This step removes the majority of dirt, dust, and moisture before the cloth dries out. Rinsing takes only 20-30 seconds but significantly impacts how well the cloth washes in the machine later.

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If a cloth has dried with visible soil or stains still present, soak it in plain water for 15-30 minutes before washing. Stubborn stains from makeup, food residue, or dried cleaning solutions may require a brief pre-soak. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals during this stage, as these can damage the microfiber. Plain water, possibly with a small amount of vinegar, works effectively for most pre-treatment needs.

For cloths with strong odors—which can develop from moisture retention or bacterial growth—soaking in a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts water for 30 minutes before washing can neutralize the smell. This vinegar soak also helps maintain the cloth's antimicrobial properties without using chemical treatments that might damage the fibers.

Never pre-treat Norwex cloths with commercial stain removal products, laundry additives, or fabric softeners. These products can leave residues that reduce the cloth's cleaning effectiveness and may cause buildup over time. The microfiber structure can trap these residues, preventing proper cleaning even after rinsing.

Practical Takeaway: Rinse cloths immediately after use while they're still damp, and allow air drying between uses to prevent odor development. Keep a small bin or bag for cloths awaiting washing to keep them contained and prevent spreading of soils throughout your home.

Washing Machine Settings and Water Temperature

Proper washing machine settings are critical for maintaining Norwex cloth performance. Use warm water rather than hot water, as excessive heat can damage the polyamide fibers and reduce their effectiveness. Water temperature between 85-105 degrees Fahrenheit provides adequate cleaning without stress to the fabric. Cold water can be used but may not clean as thoroughly, especially if the cloths have been used for heavy kitchen cleaning tasks.

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Select a gentle or delicate wash cycle on your washing machine rather than a normal or heavy-duty cycle. Gentle cycles use slower agitation speeds and shorter spin cycles that minimize fiber stress and reduce pilling—the small balls of fiber that form on cloth surfaces. Most modern washing machines have a "hand wash" or "delicate" setting that works well for these cloths. Wash cycle duration should be 30-45 minutes total.

Load size matters for washing results. Avoid overstuffing the washing machine, as cloths need adequate space to move freely in the water. An overfull load prevents thorough rinsing and can leave detergent residue on the fibers. Aim to fill the machine approximately three-quarters full when washing only cloths, or incorporate Norwex cloths with a regular load of other delicate items. Never wash Norwex cloths with heavy fabrics like jeans or towels, as the agitation difference can damage the microfiber.

Pay attention to water level settings if your machine offers this option. Enough water should surround the cloths completely, but excess water doesn't improve cleaning. Use the normal or regular water level for most loads. If washing cloths with other items, follow the recommendations for that clothing type while ensuring the cycle remains gentle.

Practical Takeaway: Create a dedicated wash load for Norwex cloths separate from other laundry, using a gentle cycle with warm water. This approach prevents interaction with heavy fabrics while ensuring consistent, appropriate care for your cloths.

Detergent Selection and Quantity Guidelines

Selecting appropriate detergent significantly impacts how well Norwex cloths continue to perform. Regular laundry detergents are acceptable, but certain types work better than others. Liquid detergents tend to rinse out more completely than powders, leaving less residue on the microfiber. Many people report good results with concentrated detergents used at recommended dilutions, as these typically contain fewer fillers and additives.

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Avoid using fabric softeners, which is perhaps the most important detergent-related guideline. Fabric softeners—including liquid softener, dryer sheets, and products marketed as "softening" treatments—coat the microfiber strands and significantly reduce cleaning effectiveness. Since the cloth's value lies in its ability to capture dirt and bacteria through the exposed microfiber structure, any coating that fills in these spaces defeats the primary purpose. This includes popular brands marketed as "static control" or "fresh scent" products.

Use approximately half the amount of detergent you would normally use for a standard laundry load. Because microfiber cloths have a large surface area and the wash cycle is gentle, less detergent is needed. Using excessive detergent leaves residue that requires additional rinses and can create buildup over time. Over-detergency also produces excess suds that interfere with gentle wash cycles, potentially causing the machine to shut down mid-cycle.

Some people prefer specialized microfiber cleaning products or gentle laundry detergents designed for delicate fabrics. These products typically contain fewer additives and dyes, which may result in better rinsing and less residue. However, standard gentle laundry detergents work adequately when used at reduced quantities. Avoid detergents with enzymes (which break down fibers), optical brighteners (which can fade colors), or excessive perfumes.

Practical Takeaway: Use approximately one-quarter to one-half the normal detergent amount with a standard gentle laundry detergent. Never use fabric softeners of any kind, as these products make Norwex cloths ineffective for their intended cleaning purposes.

Rinsing, Spin Cycles, and Machine Settings

Adequate rinsing removes detergent residue that can accumulate on microfiber and reduce performance. Many washing machines have extra rinse cycle options; consider using this feature when washing Norwex cloths. An additional rinse cycle uses minimal extra water and energy while ensuring detergent removal. If your machine doesn't offer extra rinse options, running a second complete wash cycle on the rinse setting (without detergent) after the regular wash achieves similar results.

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The spin cycle at the end of washing removes excess water to prepare cloths for drying. Use a gentle or delicate spin setting rather than a fast spin. Excessive centrifugal force from high