Did you use an unwashed new cloth?
I always wash mine (cotton or micro) before using (hot water, no softener).
I use micros with the Zaino detail sprays all the time, no problem (under fluorescent lights).
I use cotton to apply polishes and wipe off.

 

Ya, it was a new cloth. Never used, never washed. Guess this was one way to learn my lesson.

 

I'm guessing that microfiber cloths are like anything else. There's good ones and bad ones. A high end microfiber cloth probably wouldn't create the problems that the ones at Auto-zone or Pep-boys may do.
Does anyone know a better way to distinguish based on price.

 

Where do you buy good microfiber??

 

I just got some Cobra MF from Autogeek.net. Come to think of it, they didn't make any claims about them being scratchless. I'll see how they work over the weekend.

 

I use the micro fiber cloths from Griots garage.com Very few marks on my 2003 black explorer.Bought it new and have only used Griots cotton and micro cloths. On the stang only Zaino and 100% white USA towels.

 

For removing polish and sealant I use the grey Vroom (16" x 16") ones from Target. Waffle weave (for drying) I use Sonus and Blue Perl from Autopia. Pakshak.com sells highly regarded mf as well.

 

There is a huge range of quality in microfibers. I have the utmost confidence in my best microfibers not to scratch or mar the paint. You just have to be very picky in the microfibers you choose to use on your paint. If you want some super plush microfibers to use on paint for quick detailing, look at the Eurow **** weaves. Amazingly plush and very affordable.

 

I used to refinish ( prep, base-coat, clear-coat , micro-sand, buff, polish, etc. ) cars for a living and found that 3M makes a very good micro-fiber polish cloth. They are not cheap, but if you can hand polish swirls out of fresh clear-coat over black, you have accomplished something ! They are bright yellow and about the size of a wash-cloth. They work real good ! Just go to any paint supply for cars that handles 3M products and ask for them.There is 12 or so many in a bag . You might gag at the price, but if you want quality, you have to pay for it . After all these are professional grade towels made for the job.