What applicators/cloths to use when metal polishing?

[Jk*]

Now im not virgin to polishing all things good and shiny. Ive had 4 sets of mirror polished wheels in the past, manifolds etc...but after all this time am still unsure to the best combination to applying and removing metal polish from all things shiny.

I usually use a microfibre cloth to apply and then another clean one to remove. The other day i tried the Meguiars applicator pad but it sounded a bit abrasive so stopped and went back to plan a- micro fibre.

But is there any particular cloth or applicator that can help me out without creating swirls on the metal and helps bring out the shine nicely?

PS- I dont have a polisher, i do things by hand.

Thanks in advance