Costco Microfiber Towels: Are They Safe for Your Car’s Paint?

URGENT UPDATE: A heated debate has erupted regarding the safety of using Costco’s Kirkland Signature microfiber towels on automotive paint. Detailers are questioning whether these budget-friendly towels, available in a 36-pack at Costco, could be causing micro-scratches instead of providing a flawless finish.

Recently, Forensic Detailing’s Jon Delieu conducted a critical comparison of the Kirkland towels against high-end alternatives. The results were alarming: while the Kirkland towel left micro-scratches on a delicate, piano-black B-pillar trim, the premium option exhibited no such damage. This finding has ignited discussions among car enthusiasts and detailers about the potential risks of using these inexpensive towels.

The Kirkland microfiber towels are made from an 80/20 blend of polyester and polyamide, which generally offers good scrubbing power. However, many experts advocate for a 70/30 blend for automotive detailing, citing its superior softness and absorption qualities. While the Kirkland towels have a robust weight of around 350 GSM, their stitched edges have historically raised concerns regarding scratch potential.

Despite recent improvements, including the removal of scratchy tags, the debate continues. Detailers are polarized on the issue, with some recommending the Kirkland towels for non-paint applications, such as wheels and glass cleaning. Others argue that using these towels on softer paint finishes could lead to undesirable micro-marring.

The community’s consensus seems to revolve around strict usage guidelines. Experts suggest using adequate lubrication from quality car soap, applying light pressure, and maintaining the towels with care.

As discussions heat up online, the question remains: can weekend detailers confidently use these towels without risking damage to their vehicles? While the Kirkland towels may suffice for casual cleaning, those pursuing a pristine mirror finish might want to consider investing in higher-quality microfiber options.

In this evolving story, consumers are urged to weigh the pros and cons of Costco’s microfiber towels carefully. The impact on your vehicle’s appearance could be significant, influenced by the choice of towels and detailing technique. As the debate continues, detailers and enthusiasts are sharing their experiences and recommendations globally, making this topic a hot-button issue in the automotive community.

Stay tuned for updates as new findings emerge and the detailing community continues to explore safe and effective cleaning solutions.