Differences between silk and microfiber as related to the care of woodwind instruments
Silk and microfiber are two common materials used in the care of woodwind instruments. Both materials have their own advantages and disadvantages, which should be taken under consideration when making your choice.
Silk
Silk is a naturally soft material, glides very well through the instrument, and removes moisture effectively. It is ideal for gently cleaning the inside of an instrument, as it leaves no residue and is very gentle on sensitive materials. However, when cleaning the swab the silk must be treated with more care and only washed by hand in order to preserve the soft texture of the material.
Microfiber
Microfiber is a synthetic material that is also very soft, but somewhat more robust. Microfiber absorbs dirt and moisture very well and is easy to clean. It can also generate static electricity, which is helpful for removing dust. For this reason, microfiber can be used for cleaning the interior & exterior as it is gentle to the surface and does not cause scratches.
