Chamois or microfibre: which should you use to shine your car?

Maintaining your car's shine can quickly become a headache without the right equipment. If you've ever been on the verge of a nervous breakdown trying to polish your car with unsuitable materials, you're not alone. Polishing is essential to keep a car's body impeccable, and the choice of towel plays a crucial role. On one hand, we have the traditional chamois leather, classic but sometimes capricious. On the other, the modern microfiber, champion of absorption and gentle on your paint.

What is a microfiber cloth?

Microfiber is a synthetic fabric composed of extremely fine fibers, typically a blend of polyester and nylon. These fibers are about 100 times finer than a human hair, giving them unique properties that make them ideal for cleaning and polishing.

One of the main advantages of microfiber towels is their incredible absorption. They can hold up to seven times their weight in water, making them perfect for quickly and effectively drying your car's surfaces. Additionally, their extreme softness minimizes the risk of scratching delicate paint.

Density, measured in grams per square meter (g/m2 or GSM), is a crucial factor when choosing a microfiber towel for car drying. The higher the GSM, the denser the towel and the more water it can absorb. For optimal car drying, it is recommended to choose a microfiber towel with a GSM of at least 250, ideally 300 or more.

PadXpress Microfiber 300gr/M2

Set of 3 Microfibers

• Dimensions: 40 x 40 cm
• Thick: weight of 300g/m²
• Absorption capacity: 500% in 10 seconds
• Streak-free finish: wiping power far superior to standard

Buy

Tips for choosing a microfiber cloth for car drying:

• Size: Choose a towel large enough to cover a significant section of your car at once.
• Thickness: Thicker towels offer better absorption but may be harder to handle. Choose a thickness that suits you.
• Edge: Towels with sewn edges minimize fraying, while raw-edged ones may be softer.
• Material: Most microfiber towels are made from a blend of polyester and nylon. Other materials can be added for specific properties.

What is chamois leather?

Chamois leather is a type of natural leather made from the skin of animals such as sheep, deer, or goats. It has been known for centuries for its absorbent properties and softness. Chamois leathers are very effective for drying surfaces and giving them a streak-free shine.

However, chamois leather has some drawbacks compared to microfiber towels. They are less absorbent, more rigid, and more likely to scratch delicate surfaces if not used correctly. Additionally, chamois leathers dry hard and require special care to prevent them from deteriorating.

Advantages and disadvantages of microfiber towels

Advantages:

• High absorption: Absorb up to seven times their weight in water
• Soft and lint-free: Minimize the risk of scratches
• Affordable: Cheaper than chamois leather
• Safe for paint and surfaces: Do not cause swirls or micro-scratches
• Easy to use: Glide easily over painted surfaces

Disadvantages:

• Can leave streaks if damp
• Require frequent washing: To avoid dirt buildup and the risk of scratching your car
• Several towels may be needed for an entire car
• Require special care: Separate washing, air drying

Advantages and disadvantages of chamois leather

Advantages:

• Quick drying of surfaces: Absorb water quickly and efficiently
• Leave a streak-free shine: Give your car a brilliant finish
• Durable: Can last several years with proper care
• One chamois is enough for a car: Cover a large area

Disadvantages:

• More expensive than microfiber towels: Higher initial investment
• Difficulty of use for beginners: Require specific drying technique
• Require special care: Avoid dirt and grit, store properly
• Can dry hard and scratch surfaces: If not moistened before use
• Require water to function: Must be wet before each use

Which towel to choose for polishing your car?

For all car enthusiasts, it's time to say goodbye to the frustrations of old chamois leathers and welcome the microfiber revolution! With an absorption capacity worthy of a superhero, a softness that would make a feather pillow jealous, and a price that won't melt your wallet, the microfiber towel is clearly the ideal choice for impeccable cleaning and polishing.

Microfiber outperforms chamois in several key areas for drying and polishing:

PadXpress Microfiber 300gr/M2

Set of 3 Microfibers

• Dimensions: 40 x 40 cm
• Thick: weight of 300g/m²
• Absorption capacity: 500% in 10 seconds
• Streak-free finish: wiping power far superior to standard

Buy

• Absorption: Microfiber can absorb up to seven times its weight in water, compared to about three times for chamois. This means it can dry