From the dawn of human history, we have taken the materials at hand and created textiles out of them. From fur and wool to cotton and sisal, we have crafted textiles out of animals and plants. Over the past half-century, synthetic materials like nylon, acrylic, and polyester have added to our textile repertoire. But perhaps our most astounding technological leap in fiber technology is our ability to make fibers ultra thin. These so-called microfibers make up the ultimate cloth and have paved the way for applications as diverse as apparel, sports equipment, and cleaning.

In fact, when it comes to effective cleaning, mircofiber has few peers. Because the fibers are so thin (about 1/200 the width of human hair), they can be spun in such a way as to leave spaces between the fibers. These spaces, in turn, create a surface that can lift and trap dust, dirt, and moisture. The particles are trapped there until the mirafiber is washed. These characteristics are in stark contrast to those of ordinary fibers, which simply push around dirt and dust, leaving a residue on surfaces.

This ultimate cloth uses water as a lubricant to emulsify dirt and oil; in fact, the cloth can generally absorb about seven times its weight in water. The spaces that allow for the absorption of water also make the cloths dry out more quickly. Similarly, because the fibers are so thin and there are so many of them woven together, they can almost be guaranteed to last up to five years.

When it comes to cleaning, these mirafiber cloths are safe for virtually any surface. Around the house, they can be used on windows, mirrors, glass, ceramic, tile, and stainless steel. They can also be used to clean vehicles' windshields, chrome, and auto bodies. Because they can be used on Lexan, Eisanglass, plastic, and fiberglass, this ultimate cloth comes in handy for motorcycles, boats, and RVs. Best of all, the microfiber technology means that they will leave surfaces streak free, and that the cloths are washable and bleachable.

Today, this ultimate cloth is manufactured in a variety of different applications. In addition to cleaning cloths, you can find mini sizes for cleaning glasses and small electronics; string mops for tile, laminate, and hardwood flooring; dusting mitts for blinds, ceiling fans, and small items; and even pillow covers for travel size pillows that are helpful to those with allergies.

Because the cloths work beautifully using only water, they are being embraced by those who wish to reduce their impact on the earth by avoiding chemically based products and paper towels for cleaning. Their eco-friendliness extends to people with environmental sensitivities, who may have an adverse reaction to conventional cleaning products.

Textile technology continues to evolve, but the ultimate cloth may have already been invented.