There was a long stretch of time when, if I was really tired at night, I would just sleep in my makeup.
I know… I KNOW. Please don’t send the skincare authorities after me.
I knew it wasn’t good for my skin. I knew I’d wake up with raccoon eyes and mascara on my pillowcase. But the truth is, most of us aren’t skipping makeup removal because we don’t care about our skin — we’re skipping it because we’re tired, overwhelmed, or frustrated with the products we’ve been using.
And as we get older, removing our makeup at night becomes even more important. Makeup, sunscreen, and oil left on the skin can clog pores, irritate aging skin, and prevent your nighttime skincare from doing its job. Trust me — your retinol cannot work through yesterday’s foundation!
Read More: After 60 Years, I Finally Found an Affordable Skincare Routine That Works (With Pictures)
If you’ve quietly climbed into bed with your makeup on more nights than you care to admit… you’re in very good company. So let’s talk about the real things that make it so hard — and the simple switch that finally changed everything for me.
The Real Reasons You’re Not Taking Your Makeup Off at Night
Reason #1: You’re Too Tired for a Complicated Routine
By the time you finally make it to the end of your day, you’re running on fumes. You know you should take your makeup off, but the thought of cotton pads, cleansers, splashing water everywhere, and scrubbing your eyes feels like… too much.
On your most exhausted nights, the pillow wins — not because you don’t care about your skin, but because you’re human.
Read More: Can’t Sleep? This Natural Secret Will Give You the Deepest Sleep of Your Life
Reason #2: Your Skin Has Become More Sensitive with Age
As we get older, our skin becomes thinner, drier, and much more reactive. The washcloths that never bothered you in your 20s can suddenly leave your face red or irritated.
And if you’re already dealing with rosacea, eczema, or general sensitivity, anything rough or drying can make the whole process feel uncomfortable before you even start.
Reason #3: Your Makeup Is More Stubborn Than Your Remover
Waterproof mascara, long-wear foundation, budge-proof eyeliner — today’s makeup is designed to stay put. Unfortunately, that means you’re tugging, rubbing, and scrubbing just to get it off. And even then, you often wake up with leftover mascara smudges.
The Simple Switch that Fixes All Three Problems
Several years ago, I started using reusable microfiber makeup remover cloths — and they’ve been a game-changer ever since. On the nights when I’m just too tired for my full double cleanse, these cloths are my foolproof backup plan.
Read More: Here’s Why Cleansing With Oil Is Genius For Aging Skin
Here’s why they work so well for tired nights, sensitive skin, and stubborn makeup:
They remove makeup with just warm water.
Seriously! You won’t believe it until you see it. Every time I use one, I’m still a little amazed at how quickly everything melts right off. It’s the quickest, simplest way to get a clean face on the nights when you have nothing left in the tank, and it makes sticking to a nighttime routine feel doable, even when you’re exhausted.
“The BEST!!! Hands down. I am the worst about removing my makeup at night before bed, no doubt because I am tired. These soft, miraculous cloths take only a quick minute to cleanse my face before sleep.” – Nada M.
They’re incredibly soft and gentle.
In fact, the number one piece of feedback I get about these cloths is how unbelievably soft they are — nothing like the stiff, scratchy microfiber most of us expect. The plush fibers glide over aging or sensitive skin without tugging or irritation. It feels more like a soothing warm compress than a washcloth.
“I use these every single day. Super soft and not irritating at all on my SUPER sensitive skin. I can’t use regular washcloths because they irritate my skin immensely. Thank you so much for making these!!” – Laci R.
They grab onto makeup like a magnet, lifting it away instead of smearing it around.
That’s why you don’t have to scrub — the tiny fibers do the work for you. These cloths even break down waterproof mascara, long-wear foundation, and lipstick — the kinds of products that usually refuse to budge. No more waking up with the telltale mascara smudges you thought you removed.
“THEY WORK! WITH JUST WATER! Everything – and I mean foundation, blush, eyebrow pencil, lipstick, eyeshadow, eyeliner, concealer! Gone.” – Johanna R.
The Fresh Face Cloths (And Why They’re Such a Game-Changer)
Whether you prefer a simple set of four or a complete seven-day system, both versions of my Fresh Face Microfiber Makeup Remover Cloths are on sale for Black Friday — making this the perfect time to try them or stock up.
These cloths have become a longtime favorite among my readers because they make makeup removal so much easier, especially at the end of a long day. They’re incredibly soft, gentle on aging or sensitive skin, and remove makeup quickly with nothing but warm water.
“These are the best makeup remover cloths I have ever had! They are unbelievably soft, and they grab a hold of everything! I enjoy cleaning my face with these! Try them out and you won’t be disappointed! – Irene M.
Here are the two options on sale:
Fresh Face Microfiber Makeup Remover Cloths · 4 Pack
30% Off — $13.99 (regularly $19.99)
Plus Buy 3, Get 1 FREE — each pack is only $10.49 when you buy 4!
Perfect for trying them out, replacing old cloths, or grabbing a few sets to tuck into stocking stuffers or gift baskets. Each pack includes four ultra-soft, plush microfiber cloths. They’re loved for their softness, durability, and ability to lift makeup without tugging.
“LOVED BY ALL! I fell in love with these makeup remover clothes several years ago. They remove the makeup with the use of warm water. I’ve gifted these clothes to my daughter, granddaughter, and friends – I received high praise from each. I will continue to purchase these and recommend them to others.” – Sherada W.
Fresh Face Microfiber Makeup Remover Cloths · Complete Kit
40% Off — $27.59 (regularly $45.99)
This kit offers everything you need for a simple, hygienic, effortless nightly routine. It’s the most convenient way to build a habit you’ll actually stick with:
- Seven Cloths: Enjoy a fresh cloth each day of the week!
- Mesh Laundry Bag: Hang it in your bathroom to store used cloths, then toss it into the washing machine for hassle-free cleaning.
- Durable PVC Storage Bag: Keep your cloths organized and protected at home or on the go.
“It doesn’t come any better than this. The makeup remover microfiber cloths are the softest thing that has ever touched my face. Their size is perfect, and the loop makes it easy to let them dry naturally. The other great thing is the mesh pouch that makes them easy to wash. They are perfect.” – Daria B.
CLICK HERE TO SHOP THE COMPLETE KIT
At the end of the day, removing your makeup shouldn’t feel like a chore — it should feel like a small act of care that supports the skin you’ve worked hard to take care of. These cloths make that possible, even on the nights when you’re exhausted and just want to climb into bed.
If you’re ready to break the nighttime habit that’s been holding your skin back, or you want an easy, thoughtful gift for the women in your life, now is the perfect time to try them. With the Black Friday sale, you can treat yourself and share a little everyday luxury with someone you love.
“Best face cloths ever!! Love, LOVE this cloth!! It is the softest I have ever used, and that is why it’s perfect for my face! I ordered one for my daughter for Christmas and will most likely order another package for me!” – Denise S.
I’ve started using the cloths again.My main problem before was having extra people in the house. They work great with the oil cleansing. I use a regular wipe after to get what’s left off. I actually did like the micellar water, but it can be hard to find sometimes and is cheaper if there’s a store brand.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I actually had some. I had gotten rid of them because my sister and family were living with us for awhile and I had decided not to because of sharing a bathroom with a bunch of people. I have been trying to locate more of these cloths. I actually did use the Micellar water . It’s been kind of hard to find lately.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I have been using microfibre cloths for many years. You mentioned that you wouldn’t want to use a cloth that has been used for cleaning as it may have residual cleaning products on it, and I agree you should use separate cloths for your face and body from the ones you use for cleaning. I’d like to point out however, that if you are using quality microfibre cleaning cloths, you don’t need or want to use cleaning products. That’s the beauty of microfibre.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I bought these cloths and have used them for my face and they work great! I’ve just been a little weary about using them to remove my waterproof mascara…are they good for that, and will the mascara wash off the cloth in the laundry or will they be kind of permanently discoloured…? Thank you! :)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Sachi, I’m so happy that you love your cloths. I use them for waterproof mascara and they work great and it does wash out!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.First off, I have to say you look very nice without makeup. I stopped wearing it about 30 years ago and my skin has never looked better. What drew me to this article was the fact that these makeup cloths might work on just regular skin like mine even though I don’t wear makeup. I do use the micellar water to wash my face now, and I really like it but I still use a regular washcloth. It nice to change things up every once in a while. Thank you for all of your really nice articles.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Thank you for your kind words, Mary! :-)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Ordered these and gave one to each of my daughters. I’m loving mine. I had to search through the comments to read how to clean it. Make it easier for those giving these as a gift. – what they are , how to use and where to purchase more. A small paper insert with these cloths, saying what they are and a quick how to use and clean would be helpful. And don’t forget to add where to purchase more.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I am so happy you and your daughter love these. Great suggestion about an insert. I will share this idea with my store manager. Thanks, Carol. :-)
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I have used microfiber clothes for a couple years now. I can’t use much of anything in my face and especially my eyes so I use baby wash. My skin is so soft and I don’t have any open pores. The plus side is I smell like a baby and who can resist that baby smell.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.I am trying to order these clothes but the link says they are not available.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Jillee, the links for the clothes are not working on my end in Firefox or Microsoft Edge.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.This is so funny..I take care of my 93 year old mom…and guess what..she has always washed her face with terry cloth washcloths ans her skin looks amazing..so back to what we did in the old days!!!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Isn’t that something, Gayle… it seems like this happens a lot. What’s old is new again! We really can learn so much from our older relatives and friends!!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Hi Gayle. I’m close to 70 and have only ever just used a terry face washer also. I regularly receive compliments about what lovely skin I have, including from a great friend who is also a qualified beauty therapist and she initially commented on my skin before we became good friends, mind you, after her kind and generous comment, how could we then not become close friends?! I also, so then when I tell them my age, people are amazed and usually think that I’m at least 10 years younger.
I’ve never considered that I had nice skin because I’d had a face full of freckles before they were ‘trendy,’ but were rather common in Australia in those days because we knew nothing about skin cancers in those days, so the worst thing about getting burnt that our skin peeled! We all just lived in the sun. My freckles had just begun to fade, when my acne began.
Until recently, my age never came up in conversation, however when chatting with people and I may refer to things that to my mind only happened recently, I then realise that the person I’m chatting with wouldn’t have even been born then! So, I rarely wore anything more than lipstick, blush and eye shadow because in those days it was considered that acne was because you didn’t wash your skin properly! So instead of trying to cover my skin with make-up, I did my best to keep it as clean as possible and ‘let the air get to it’ according to my mother. In fact I probably only exacerbated it with the constant washing because I was constantly removing my natural oils, encouraging my skin to just make more oil. Thank goodness for skin science nowadays!
I’ve begun to wear a little foundation when I go out somewhere special now because I noticed a couple of little lines on the side of one eye. I’d worn glasses for over 60 years, however I realise that perhaps those lines may have been there for longer, but either they have only recently appeared, or I only noticed them after having cataract surgery which was about the same time that the lines appeared! lol
However I’ve recently begun to use the disposable wipes with micellar water because by the time I’m ready for sleep, my skin already feels sticky due to the humidity from living 400 metres from the beach, in the sub-tropics. But, like your mother some old habits die hard because I still use a terry cotton face cloth while I’m in the shower, but I like to use the wipes that have micellar water because by the time I’m ready for sleep, I like to give my skin that little extra cleanse directly before my night time skincare regime that I have only been taking seriously for about the last 5 or so years.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.So, as you can see, I’m with your mother Gayle, when it comes to feeling properly clean, if one doesn’t wear make-up regularly, there’s nothing like the feeling of water and a cotton towelling wash cloth! :)
You can find a few of my best tips here! http://bit.ly/2VtPlz9
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Well thank you Sarah!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Thanks Hopey!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.How do you get the make up out of the micro fiber cloths?
Please log in or create a free account to comment.It always comes out easily with a pre-wash spray.I use oxy clean.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Just toss them in the wash! Or get wet, add a bit of soap, and rub the cloth against itself. Rinse well, let dry and it will be ready to use again!
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Jillee, I’ve always thought you were stunning, but look at you without makeup! Just beautiful. Your hair is wonderful and you always look put together and tasteful. Love your website – one of the first I read every day.
Please log in or create a free account to comment.Wow, thank you Lori!
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