Are there microfibers of a different type?

[kenny1999]

In the market, there are a lot of different brands of microfiber cloth, but in general, there are only two types - less expensive and the more expensive one. The less expensive one is usually suggested for general cleaning while the more expensive one is usually suggested that it's for delicate surfaces like camera lens or smartphones something.
I am wondering if there could be different types of microfiber or if there could be different densities or quality during different manufacturing processes or if they are most probably only marketing gimmicks??

 

[Borek]

First of all: fibers can be made of many different types of plastics.

 

[chemisttree]

Microfiber has a definition that is not quite as binary as you might think.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microfiber

 

[kenny1999]

Microfiber has a definition that is not quite as binary as you might think.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microfiber

I understand that microfiber could be made up of different compositions because microfiber is a general term, and for anything that falls into the category of "microfiber" they should share some similarities. I am more interested if they would share any differences among different "microfiber"

 

[chemisttree]

I understand that microfiber could be made up of different compositions because microfiber is a general term, and for anything that falls into the category of "microfiber" they should share some similarities. I am more interested if they would share any differences among different "microfiber"

From here.
Benefits of Microfiber
Microfiber towels have numerous benefits for individuals and the environment. Here are five of them.

1. Better Cleaning
Microfiber towels contain more than 200,000 fibers per inch of fabric and can absorb more than seven times their weight in water, making them much more effective than traditional cleaning cloths. Traditional cleaning rags and chemical cleaners can’t pick up every bit of dirt and often leave behind residues. Microfiber, on the other hand, traps dirt and liquid in its fibers, leaving behind a completely clean surface.

In fact, microfiber towels have shown to be 98.9 percent effective in removing bacteria, while conventional towels used with Lysol or bleach are only 92 percent effective. Microfiber allows for deep cleaning, as its tiny fibers can reach into surface pores and cracks — unlike cotton rags and mops with fibers too big and clumsy to effectively deep-clean and trap all dirt and germs. This makes microfiber perfect for disinfecting areas where preventing cross-contamination is priority, like kitchens and health facilities.

Microfiber towels also don’t leave behind lint or scratch surfaces, making them perfect for cleaning delicate surfaces like glass or mirrors. Because they absorb more liquid and dirt than typical cleaning cloths, they also give you a streak-free clean.

2. Environmentally Friendly
Microfiber towels allow for water and chemical-free cleaning. Even when water is used, much less is needed to clean the surface. A 2002 study by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency found that with cotton mops, staff used 105 gallons of water to clean 100 rooms. When using microfiber mops, only 5 gallons of water were needed for all 100 rooms.

By using microfiber in place of traditional cleaning methods, individuals and industries can save water, eliminate waste and reduce the use of chemical cleaners. Many chemical cleaners contain toxic chemicals, which can have harmful effects on the environment.

Since cleaners are usually washed down the drain after being used, they’re absorbed into the water, soil and air. Some of these chemicals don’t break down over time and can remain in water and soil long-term, threatening the health of the habitat and wildlife. Microfiber eliminates the need for cleaning chemicals, which can reduce negative impacts on the environment.

3. Cost Savings
Although the initial cost for microfiber cleaning products might be higher than traditional cleaning products, microfiber products are extremely cost-effective in the long run. Microfiber towels can be used hundreds of times before they need to be replaced, unlike cotton towels that wear out when used for heavy duty cleaning.

Because microfiber doesn’t require the use of cleaning chemicals, companies can spend less money on cleaning supplies. Microfiber mops also use 10 to 20 times less water than conventional mops, meaning businesses can use less water for cleaning.

Aside from using less resources, microfiber towels clean more effectively. For companies, this means microfiber towels make workers’ jobs easier, allowing them to be more efficient and thorough. With the time saved, they can focus on other critical tasks.

4. Improved Safety
Microfiber is more effective at removing dirt and germs than traditional cleaning fabrics. According to a study by the University of California, Davis Medical Center, microfiber mops reduced bacteria by around 99 percent, whereas cotton mops only reduced bacteria by 30 percent. In settings such as hospitals, where preventing the spread of germs and potential infections is a top priority, microfiber towels allow staff to clean more effectively, reducing the potential spread of germs.

And the safety benefits extend beyond cleaning. Cleaning equipment made from microfiber is lightweight, making it easier to maneuver and safer for employees to use.

The New Hampshire Hospital estimates at least one or two injuries per month occur due to staff using cotton mops. Microfiber mops weigh only about two pounds and use 10 to 20 times less liquid than cotton mops, reducing the potential for worker injury from handling heavy cleaning equipment. Traditional mops also require workers to frequently dump, rinse and change water, increasing the risk for potential injury. Since microfiber mops need little to no water, workers have less risk for injury.

Microfiber cleaning tools also dry in a third of the time of traditional cleaning tools, allowing surfaces like floors to dry faster. About two-thirds of the liquid in a cotton mop isn’t used. This results excess water on the floors, which causes floors to take longer to dry and increases the risk of accidents.

5. Better Health
Although chemical cleaners make surfaces sparkling clean and pleasant-smelling, cleaning products are some of the most toxic substances found in households. Many chemicals in cleaning products have negative effects on health, can cause eye and skin irritation and are toxic if ingested. Some are even associated with long-term health effects, like cancer and hormone disruption.

Since microfiber cleaning tools require no use of products, people aren’t exposed to these harmful chemicals when cleaning. Microfiber cloths are also hypoallergenic, making them safe for individuals with allergies or asthma to use without suffering from irritation.