Apple’s $19 Polishing Cloth has become one of the company’s most talked-about accessories since its release. This seemingly simple square of soft, nonabrasive material sparked both mockery and curiosity when Apple began selling it separately from their devices. The cloth is specifically designed to safely clean all Apple displays, including the special nano-texture glass found on high-end monitors without causing damage that regular cleaning cloths might inflict.
Many laughed at the price tag for what appears to be just a cloth, but those who use it often find the quality justifies the cost. The Polishing Cloth works better with phones and computers than with eyeglasses or other surfaces, as a quick swipe can effectively remove fingerprints and smudges that plague touchscreens and glossy displays. It features subtle Apple branding with an embossed logo in the corner, maintaining the minimalist aesthetic the company is known for.
The Accessory That Became A Meme
The Apple Polishing Cloth isn’t just a microfiber cloth—it’s a $19 microfiber cloth that became one of the most talked-about Apple accessories ever. First introduced in October 2021 alongside the M1 Pro and M1 Max MacBook Pro models, this seemingly mundane item sparked a wave of memes, backorders, and curiosity across the tech world. But why did it become such a phenomenon?
A Premium Cloth for Premium Screens
The Apple Polishing Cloth is designed to clean the displays of Apple devices, particularly those with nano-texture glass like the Pro Display XDR and some iMacs. Nano-texture glass is incredibly delicate and requires special care; Apple even warns against using any regular cloths on it. So, the polishing cloth is marketed as a safe, Apple-endorsed solution that won’t damage your very expensive screen.
Apple describes the cloth as being made with “soft, nonabrasive material,” and it features a subtle embossed Apple logo. Despite its modest appearance, it’s one of the few accessories officially recommended by Apple for cleaning high-end devices.
Internet Hype and Sold-Out Status
What really launched the Apple Polishing Cloth into viral status wasn’t just its release—it was the reaction. Critics and fans alike were baffled and amused by its $19 price tag. Reviewers quickly got their hands on it and began testing it against generic microfiber cloths. Spoiler alert: most agreed it didn’t clean much better, if at all—but that didn’t stop it from selling out almost immediately.
Within days of launch, the cloth was on backorder for up to 10–12 weeks in some regions. People began reselling them online for ridiculous markups, sometimes over $50. It became a sort of status symbol and tech-world in-joke.
Apple Being Apple
Part of what makes the polishing cloth story so “Apple” is how it fits into the company’s larger brand philosophy. Apple is known for attention to detail, premium pricing, and selling experiences rather than just products. Even something as utilitarian as a cleaning cloth became a design object—minimalist, logo-stamped, and sold at a premium.
It also reinforces Apple’s approach to controlling the entire user experience—from the hardware and software to how you clean your device.
Is It Worth It?
If you own a Pro Display XDR or a nano-texture iMac, then yes, using the Apple Polishing Cloth is probably worth it to avoid damaging your investment. For everyone else? It’s a novelty, a collector’s item, or a funny conversation piece.
Ultimately, the Apple Polishing Cloth is a perfect example of how Apple can turn even the most mundane accessory into a cultural moment. Only Apple could sell out a $19 piece of fabric and make the world talk about it.
Key Takeaways
- The Apple Polishing Cloth is made with special nonabrasive material that safely cleans all Apple displays including nano-texture glass.
- Regular microfiber cloths may damage sensitive screens while the Apple cloth prevents scratches and effectively removes fingerprints.
- Despite initial mockery about the $19 price tag, many users find the quality and performance worth the investment for protecting expensive devices.
Product Overview
The Apple Polishing Cloth is a specialized cleaning accessory that has garnered attention for both its simple design and its relatively high price point. It offers specific benefits for Apple device displays, particularly those with nano-texture glass.
Design and Material
The Apple Polishing Cloth features a minimalist design with an embossed Apple logo in one corner. It’s square-shaped with clean edges and comes in a light gray color that matches Apple’s aesthetic. The cloth is made with a soft, nonabrasive material specifically designed to clean displays without scratching them.
This material is particularly important for sensitive screens. Regular microfiber cloths might cause damage to certain displays, but the Apple Polishing Cloth is engineered to avoid this issue.
The cloth has a slightly raised edge and feels premium to the touch. Its texture allows it to clear away fingerprints with a quick, smooth swipe across the screen surface.
Compatibility
The Apple Polishing Cloth works with all Apple displays but shines especially with nano-texture glass. This specialized glass appears on high-end products like the Pro Display XDR and certain iMac models.
While designed for Apple products, the cloth can clean any glass surface. However, it performs better with phones and computers than with eyeglasses or glass tables.
Many users consider it essential for nano-texture displays, as regular microfiber cloths might damage these special surfaces. The cloth’s effectiveness comes from its material composition and construction.
For standard glass displays, the Polishing Cloth works well but might not justify its premium price for all consumers.
Usage Instructions
The Apple Polishing Cloth requires specific handling to maintain its cleaning effectiveness. Proper use ensures your devices stay clean without damage to their screens.
Cleaning Process
The Apple Polishing Cloth is made from a soft, nonabrasive material specially designed for cleaning screens. This makes it ideal for removing smudges and fingerprints from your Apple devices.
To clean a device screen:
- Make sure the device is unplugged
- Turn off the device if possible
- Gently wipe the screen in circular motions
- Apply light pressure—no need to scrub hard
The cloth works best on its own for most smudges. For stubborn spots, users can slightly dampen the cloth with water before wiping. This helps lift oils without damaging the screen’s coating.
For nano-texture glass displays, the Apple Polishing Cloth is particularly important. Regular microfiber cloths might damage these special surfaces, while the Apple cloth cleans safely.
Maintaining Cloth Condition
The polishing cloth itself needs cleaning after multiple uses. When it becomes dirty, follow these steps to clean it:
- Hand wash with mild dish soap and water
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap
- Allow to air dry completely (at least 24 hours)
Some users report dampening the cloth with water for regular cleaning. This works for light dirt, but more thorough washing is needed when the cloth becomes very soiled.
Store the cloth flat or gently folded in a clean, dry place. Avoid storing it in dusty or dirty areas which could transfer grime back to your screens.
With proper care, the Apple Polishing Cloth will remain effective for many cleaning sessions, protecting your investment in both the cloth and your devices.
Specific Applications
The Apple Polishing Cloth offers tailored cleaning solutions for various Apple products, with special attention to different screen technologies. It’s designed to safely maintain your devices without causing damage to sensitive surfaces.
Apple Devices
The Apple Polishing Cloth works on all Apple displays, making it versatile across the entire product lineup. It effectively cleans iPhone screens, removing fingerprints and smudges that accumulate during daily use.
For iPad users, the cloth provides streak-free cleaning that preserves the oleophobic coating that helps resist fingerprints. This extends the life of your tablet’s screen protection.
MacBook Pro owners benefit from the cloth’s ability to remove dust and oils without scratching the display. The soft material is gentle on laptop screens while still removing stubborn marks.
Compatible Apple Devices:
- iPhones (all models)
- iPads (standard, Air, Pro, Mini)
- MacBooks (Air, Pro)
- iMacs and standalone displays
- Apple Watch
Nano-Texture Glass Care
The polishing cloth is particularly important for devices with nano-texture glass. This special glass finish is found on the Pro Display XDR and select iMac models.
Nano-texture glass requires specific cleaning methods to maintain its anti-reflective properties. Using standard cleaning cloths can damage this special finish, making the Apple Polishing Cloth the only officially certified solution for these displays.
The Pro Display XDR with nano-texture finish costs thousands of dollars, making proper care essential. The $19 cloth is a small price to protect such an expensive investment.
Users should avoid cleaning nano-texture glass with water unless using the Apple cloth. The cloth can be lightly dampened when needed but should not be soaking wet.
Comparative Analysis
When comparing cleaning products, small details make a big difference. The Apple Polishing Cloth has sparked debate about value versus performance in the cleaning market.
Conventional Cleaning Cloths
Most standard cleaning cloths cost between $1-5 and come in multi-packs. These cloths typically use microfiber materials that can remove fingerprints and dust from screens.
Regular cloths often work well for basic cleaning needs. Many users find that a $1 rag performs similar functions as premium options when cleaning screens.
Standard microfiber cloths have some limitations:
- May leave lint or streaks on sensitive screens
- Often lack specialized materials for nano-texture surfaces
- Generally thinner and less durable than premium options
These cloths work fine for most everyday devices but might not provide the same level of care for high-end screens.
Apple Cloth Versus Alternatives
The Apple Polishing Cloth sells for $19, making it much pricier than typical options. This price difference raises questions about its value proposition.
Testing shows the Apple cloth has some advantages. It works better with phones and computers than with eyeglasses or glass tables according to PCMag’s review.
The material feels similar to the inside of iPad smart covers or silicone iPhone cases. This soft, non-abrasive texture helps protect sensitive screens.
Key differences from cheaper alternatives:
- Material quality: Softer, more premium feel
- Branding: Features the Apple logo
- Packaging: Comes in Apple’s signature minimalist box
- Compatibility: Specifically designed for Apple’s nano-texture glass
Despite these differences, many experts question if the performance justifies the cost markup from conventional options.
Purchase and Availability
The Apple Polishing Cloth has become quite famous for its premium price tag. When first released, this simple cleaning accessory regularly sold for $19.
Finding deals on official Apple accessories can be tough. However, as of March 2025, Woot is offering a rare discount on the Apple Polishing Cloth for just $6.99 for Prime members. Non-Prime customers will need to pay an extra $6 shipping fee.
The cloth is available through multiple channels:
- Apple Store – In-person and online
- Amazon – Official listing available
- Woot – Currently offering discounted pricing
- Authorized Apple retailers
When shopping, make sure to buy the genuine product. The official Apple Polishing Cloth has an embossed Apple logo in one corner, which helps identify authentic items.
Despite initial mockery of its high price, the cloth has remained popular among Apple device owners. This is particularly true for those with nano-texture displays, which need special care when cleaning.
The cloth sometimes faces stock shortages shortly after new product launches. At these times, shipping dates may extend several weeks out.
Customer Feedback
The Apple Polishing Cloth has generated mixed reactions from both everyday users and tech reviewers who have tested its cleaning abilities and value proposition.
User Testimonials
Many Apple product owners express satisfaction with the cloth’s cleaning performance. One Best Buy customer mentioned that the cloth “does the job” despite being pricey. They acknowledged that Apple products typically command premium prices, but appreciated the cloth’s material quality.
In online discussions, long-time users praise the durability of Apple’s cleaning cloths. On MacRumors forums, users report these cloths “last for YEARS” without needing to be washed.
Reddit users specifically highlight the cloth’s importance for specialized displays. They note that the Apple Polishing Cloth works without damaging the nano-texture finishes on the Studio Display and Pro XDR, while “regular microfiber cloths absolutely will damage” these expensive screens.
Expert Reviews
Tech publications have put the $19 cloth through thorough testing. PCMag found that the cloth “works better with phones and computers than with eyeglasses or glass tables.” Their testing showed a quick swipe could effectively remove fingerprints from screens.
How-To Geek questioned the value proposition in their review titled “$19 Polishing Cloth Review: Seriously, What The Heck?” They did acknowledge Apple’s claim that the cloth is made with “soft, nonabrasive material” designed to clean any Apple display, including specialized nano-texture glass.
Professional reviewers note the cloth performs its basic function well but debate whether the premium price is justified. Some experts suggest the cloth’s main advantage is peace of mind for owners of Apple’s most expensive displays with special finishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Apple Polishing Cloth has sparked many questions about its use, value, and care. Here are answers to the most common questions about this unique cleaning accessory.
How do you properly use the Apple Polishing Cloth for cleaning devices?
To use the Apple Polishing Cloth correctly, gently wipe your device’s screen in circular motions. The cloth works best on dry surfaces for removing fingerprints and smudges.
For tougher stains, you can slightly dampen the cloth with water. Avoid using cleaning chemicals as they may damage both your device and the cloth.
The cloth is made with very thin fibers – thinner than normal microfiber cloths – allowing it to clean hard-to-reach areas effectively.
What sets the Apple Polishing Cloth apart from other cleaning cloths?
The Apple Polishing Cloth features a special design with ultra-fine fibers that are thinner than typical microfiber cloths. This unique composition helps it clean screens without scratching them.
Apple designed it specifically for their nano-texture glass and other sensitive displays. The cloth has a soft texture that feels premium compared to standard cleaning cloths.
Some iPad Pro models now include the cloth with purchase, highlighting its importance for proper device care.
Is there a recommended way to wash and maintain the Apple Polishing Cloth?
The cloth can be washed when it gets dirty. Hand washing with mild soap and warm water is the safest method.
After washing, lay it flat to air dry completely before using it again. Avoid using fabric softeners or bleach as these may damage the special fibers.
According to Apple discussions, some users gently clean the cloth itself with a small amount of water when it collects dirt.
Are there any cost-effective alternatives to the Apple Polishing Cloth?
Many standard microfiber cloths cost significantly less than Apple’s $19 version. Basic microfiber cloths can be purchased for as little as $1.
Some YouTube comparisons test Apple’s cloth against much cheaper alternatives to see if the price difference is justified.
For regular cleaning needs, most high-quality microfiber cloths will work well without breaking the bank.
What are the dimensions of the Apple Polishing Cloth, and will it fit all Apple devices?
The Apple Polishing Cloth measures approximately 6.3 by 6.3 inches (16 by 16 cm), making it adequately sized for all Apple products.
This size works well for everything from small iPhones to large iMacs and Pro Display XDR screens. The cloth is thin enough to fold for precision cleaning of smaller components.
Its portable size makes it easy to carry between different devices or store with your Apple products.
What are customer and expert reviews saying about the effectiveness of the Apple Polishing Cloth?
Reviews of the cloth are mixed. Many users praise its cleaning effectiveness and soft texture that leaves no scratches on screens.
However, expert reviews often question the high price point compared to standard microfiber cloths with similar cleaning abilities.
The cloth has become somewhat controversial, with some seeing it as an example of Apple’s premium pricing strategy while others view it as a worthwhile accessory for expensive devices.
