Microfibre (or microfiber) is synthetic fibre with diameter less than one denier - finer than silk, invisible to the naked eye. Most microfibre towels use a polyester/polyamide (nylon) blend.
How It Works
The ultra-fine fibres create massive surface area relative to weight. When split (wedge-shaped), surface area increases further. This surface area:
- Traps and holds water between fibres
- Creates capillary action for absorption
- Grabs particles (why microfibre is used for cleaning)
Unlike cotton, microfibre doesn't absorb water into the fibre - it holds water between fibres through surface tension.
Properties
Advantages:
- Extremely quick drying
- Lightweight and packable
- High absorbency for weight
- Low friction (good for hair towels)
- Sand releases easily
Disadvantages:
- Synthetic feel some dislike
- Can feel "grabby" on skin
- May hold odours if not washed properly
- Sheds microplastics when washed
- Not biodegradable
Quality Varies
Microfibre quality depends on:
- Fineness: Finer = better performance
- Blend ratio: Higher polyamide often means softer
- Split vs unsplit: Split fibres absorb better
- GSM: 300-400 typical for towels
Cheap microfibre may be coarse and less effective.
Common Uses in Towels
- Travel and gym towels
- Hair towels and wraps
- Sports and cooling towels
- Car drying cloths
- Cleaning cloths