The home cleaning revolution without resorting to the washing machine: say goodbye to dirty dishcloths with this simple trick.
Cleaning dishcloths can be one of the most time-consuming and tedious challenges in the kitchen. These handy cloths are essential for keeping our surfaces sparkling clean, but they often accumulate dirt and germs that seem impossible to remove. We never get the feeling that the cloth is perfectly clean. Plus, washing them in the washing machine can damage them, and we often choose to dispose of them prematurely. But what if we told you that there is a simple and effective solution to revitalize them without using the washing machine?
To bring your cloths back to life and keep them hygienic, you only need three ingredients that you probably already have at home. This method has proven to be effective in removing the dirt and bacteria they accumulate, leaving them as good as new. Here’s how to do it step by step:
- Fill a container with hot water: Make sure it is quite hot, but not boiling, to avoid damaging the fibers of the cloths.
- Add half a glass of cleaning vinegar: Vinegar is known for its disinfectant and deodorizing properties, which makes it a perfect ally for deep cleaning.
- Add a splash of active oxygen: This product, also known as sodium percarbonate, releases oxygen on contact with water, helping to remove stains and embedded dirt.
- Soak the cloths in the mixture: Let them soak overnight. You will notice how the water changes color, indicating that the dirt is coming off.
- Drain and rinse well: The next day, wring out the cloths and rinse them with clean water. You will see that they have regained their vitality and are ready to continue being your allies in cleaning the kitchen.
Alternatives and additional care
Although this trick is very effective, there are other alternatives to clean them. For example, baking soda is also an excellent cleaner. Heat almost boiling water, add a tablespoon of baking soda and introduce the dirty cloths. Let them soak for half an hour, rinse them and let them dry. Another option is to use a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar, soaking them overnight before rinsing and drying them in the sun.
For a deeper cleaning of microfiber cloths, you can boil water with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar for 1 or 2 minutes, then rinse, drain and let them dry. This method is especially useful for keeping microfiber cloths in perfect condition.
What about bleach?
Although bleach may seem like a radical and effective solution, its use is not at all recommended, as it can damage the fibers of the cloths and, if used in excess, leave residue that could be harmful.
A healthy habit
Incorporating regular cleaning of cloths into your routine will not only extend their useful life, but will also help keep your kitchen more hygienic. Remember that, according to the Organization of Users and Consumers (OCU), a high percentage of them and the scouring pads in Spanish homes are not cleaned properly, which favors the proliferation of bacteria.
