Guide to Detailing Towels: Types, Maintenance, and Choosing the Right One

Using high-quality car detailing towels can make a significant difference in the quality of your work. Whether washing, drying, applying spray wax, or removing polish, having the right microfiber detailing towel ensures a scratch-free, and streak-free finish.

With so many options available, how do you choose the best microfiber towels for auto detailing? This guide will break down the different types of detailing towels, how to maintain them properly, and when to use each type for different detailing services.

Importance of Microfiber Towels

Microfiber towels are great in auto detailing because they:

• Trap dirt and dust without scratching surfaces
• Absorb water efficiently, reducing drying time
• Distribute waxes, sealants, and quick detailers evenly
• Last longer than cotton towels when properly maintained

Unlike traditional cotton towels, microfiber detailing towels are designed with split fibers, allowing them to lift contaminants rather than pushing them around.

Types of Microfiber Detailing Towels

There are different types of microfiber towels, and each one serves a different purpose. Using the wrong one can reduce effectiveness or even cause damage.

What is GSM?

GSM (grams per square meter) refers to the thickness and density of the microfiber. Lower GSM towels are lighter and better for cleaning, while higher GSM towels are more plush and thicker, which make them better for drying and absorbing water.

When to Use Each Towel Type

1. Best Drying Towels

Using a high-quality drying towel speeds up drying and reduces the likelihood of water spots. The best detailing towels for drying include:

• Twist Loop Towels – High absorption for quick, streak-free drying
• Waffle Weave Towels – Ideal for glass and other surfaces, preventing lint and streaks
• Plush Microfiber Drying Towels – Thick and soft for maximum absorption

Our Rag Company Gauntlet Drying Towel is super absorbent for quick, lint-free drying.

2. Best Towels for Wax & Polish Removal

Removing wax or polish requires a towel that won’t scratch while effectively buffing out residue. The best towels for this task include:

• Edgeless Microfiber Towels – Soft, high-pile towels perfect for wax removal
• Dual-Pile Towels – One side thicker for polish/wax removal, other side lower pile for spray wax
• Plush Buffing Towels – High GSM for a smooth, swirl-free finish

Detail King’s Edgeless Creature Super Towels are safe for all finishes with ultra-plush fibers.

3. Best Towels for Interior Cleaning

For interior detailing, towels should be durable yet soft to prevent scratching delicate surfaces. The best detailing towels for interiors include:

• All-Purpose Microfiber Towels – Perfect for dashboards, consoles, and door panels
• Low GSM Utility Towels – Used for wiping leather, vinyl, and plastics
• Glass-Specific Microfiber Towels – Streak-free results on windshields and mirrors

Detail King’s Multi-Purpose Towels are versatile for all interior surfaces.

4. Best Towels for Ceramic Coatings

When applying ceramic coatings, the best microfiber detailing towels must be lint-free and soft to avoid streaking or scratching the surface.

• Short-Pile Towels – Good for leveling ceramic coating without removing too much of the product

The Pearl Coating Towels are specially designed for leveling ceramic coatings. 

Other Towel Types

Detail King has specialty towels designed to make your life easier and team operate more efficiently. Our specialty towels include towels and pads for glass, bugs, and even a clay bar replacement towel.

How to Properly Maintain Microfiber Towels

Even the best quality towels won’t last if not properly cared for. Follow these steps to extend the lifespan of your microfiber towels:

1. Wash Separately: Never mix microfiber with cotton or other fabrics—it will collect lint.
2. Use a Microfiber-Safe Detergent: Avoid fabric softeners, bleach, or high-heat drying, as these will clog fibers and reduce absorbency. Try our Clean ALL Towel Cleaner.
3. Washing: Use cold water for light cleaning, warm water for heavily soiled towels.
4. Dry on Low Heat or Air Dry: Avoid high heat, which can melt microfiber fibers and reduce absorbency. Use low heat or let them air dry.
5. Store Properly: Keep clean towels in a sealed container or bag to prevent contamination with dust or debris

Final Thoughts

Investing in the best microfiber towels for auto detailing ensures scratch-free, professional-level results. Whether you’re drying, buffing, or applying wax, using the right detailing towel is essential for achieving a flawless finish.