Sourcing microfibre cloths and mops from China
For microfibre cloths, mop heads and cleaning brushes from China, specify the surface, cleaning process and handle connection first, then compare samples after use and washing; fabric weight or a product photograph alone cannot confirm suitability. Cambridge China Bridge sources this for UK and overseas buyers, with its own staff in China, from a first trial order to scheduled full containers.
Buying from China for a business? How our UK China sourcing agent service works · China sourcing agent for small orders and first imports
Products and search terms
microfibre cloths, microfiber cloths, cleaning cloths, replacement mop heads, cleaning brushes, janitorial supplies
Match the tool to the cleaning job
A glass cloth, a vehicle-detailing cloth and a general wiping cloth need not be the same construction. Cleaning companies and distributors should start with the surface, dirt, cleaning chemicals and laundry process. For a brush, add the bristle requirement and whether the surface scratches easily.
This page covers physical cleaning tools. Detergent formulations and disinfectant products are a separate sourcing exercise, covered in the cleaning products guide. Keep chemicals out of a simple cloth quotation unless they are deliberately part of the brief.
UK import duty
Read from the UK Trade Tariff on 29 September 2026, the lines below carried 6% to 12% on goods from China, with no anti-dumping duty. Knitted microfibre cloths are 12%, and nonwoven or woven cloths 6%, so the fabric construction changes the duty; ask the supplier whether the microfibre is warp-knitted or woven. Mops and brushes are heading 9603, a different line.
| Goods | Commodity code | Duty |
|---|---|---|
| Floor cloths, dish cloths, dusters and cleaning cloths, knitted or crocheted | 6307 10 10 00 | 12% |
| Floor cloths, dish cloths, dusters and cleaning cloths, nonwoven | 6307 10 30 00 | 6% |
| Floor cloths, dish cloths, dusters and cleaning cloths, other (for example woven) | 6307 10 90 90 | 6% |
What to put on the order
Ask the factory to price the same specification for every candidate. Include quantities by colour so colour-coded cleaning systems are not lost when someone consolidates the order.
| Product | Specify | Trial before approval |
|---|---|---|
| Microfibre cloths | Fibre blend, dimensions, fabric weight, weave or pile, edging and colour | Lint, streaking, absorbency, scratching and performance after laundering |
| Mop heads | Material, head dimensions, attachment geometry and compatible handle | Fit on the actual handle, retention, wringing and floor coverage |
| Brushes | Bristle material, length, stiffness, head shape and handle connection | Shedding, access to the cleaning area and surface damage |
| Packing | Count per pack, colour separation, carton dimensions and gross weight | Count accuracy and protection from moisture or contamination |
Write down the sample trial
Use samples on representative surfaces with the intended cleaning method. Agree how you will judge streaks, lint or surface damage, and keep photographs and a retained reference. If cloths will be laundered, run a repeated wash trial using the actual process and record changes rather than relying on how the new cloth feels.
For replacement mop heads, measure and test the connection on the buyer's handle. A description such as universal fitting does not prove compatibility. Agree the same inspection points for the bulk order, including stitching and attachment strength where they matter.
An antibacterial claim changes the question
Ask whether any biocidal treatment has been applied, even if you only wanted an ordinary cloth. HSE distinguishes treated articles from products with a primary biocidal function and sets requirements for treated articles placed on the GB market. An antibacterial label is not merely decorative marketing.
Record the proposed treatment and claims before approval, then check the applicable requirements. Removing a claim from artwork does not remove a treatment from the material. Plain mechanical cleaning tools avoid that particular treatment question, but still need assessment for their actual use.
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Check pack economics against a local distributor
Compare delivered cost per usable cloth, head or brush, not only cost per carton. Include sample work, inspection, freight, import charges, damaged units and storage. Bulky brushes or mop heads may have a different freight result from tightly packed cloths; request carton measurements and use the volume calculator.
For a small cleaning business with changing requirements, a local distributor's mixed packs and immediate replacements may be worth the extra unit price. Direct sourcing is more promising when one specification is used repeatedly. Send the application, quantities, sample, treatment requirements, postcode and arrival deadline for a quote; minimums and timing must be confirmed.
Related guides: Brushes, brooms and paint rollers from China.
Related guides: Wiping rags and textile scrap from China.
Frequently asked questions
Are microfibre and microfiber different products?
They are British and American spellings. Specify the fibre blend, construction, dimensions and intended use rather than relying on either word alone.
Can a replacement mop head fit every handle?
Do not assume that. Supply the handle model and connection dimensions, and approve a physical fit trial.
Should I request antibacterial cloths?
Only if that property is actually required and its treatment, claims and compliance can be assessed. Ordinary cleaning and biocidal action are different requirements.