How to Clean Your Dishcloth Without Damaging It
By Pappelina. High quality Swedish rugs | Published: 2026-10-30
Category: Tips & Care
Learn the right way to wash and dry your biodegradable dishcloth so it stays absorbent, fresh, and lasts longer without breaking down early.
Quick Answer
Wash your dishcloth in hot water (up to 90°C) without fabric softener, then air-dry or tumble-dry on low. This keeps it absorbent, fresh, and compostable.
Why Fabric Softener Ruins Dishcloths
Fabric softener coats the natural fibers and reduces absorbency, making the cloth less effective at wiping spills. Skip it entirely to keep the cloth working as intended.
Heat: Friend or Foe?
High heat kills bacteria, so washing at 90°C is ideal for hygiene. However, avoid ironing or using extreme dryer heat, which can damage the fibers and shorten the cloth's life.
Step-by-Step Dishcloth Cleaning
- Rinse after each use: Rinse the cloth under warm running water to remove food particles and soap residue. Squeeze out excess water. A quick rinse prevents odors from setting in.
- Machine wash hot: Place the dishcloth in the washing machine and wash at 90°C with your regular detergent. Do not use fabric softener. Check the care label first—some cloths may have lower heat limits.
- Dry properly: Air-dry the cloth on a rack or line, or tumble-dry on low heat. Avoid high heat and ironing. Fully dry the cloth before storing to prevent mildew.
Product Facts
- FIA Black - Dishcloth, 2-pack: Made from 70% FSC®-certified cellulose and 30% cotton waste, washable up to 90°C. This high heat tolerance means you can sanitize the cloth thoroughly without worrying about damage.
FIA Black - Dishcloth, 2-pack - MAX Mud - Dishcloth, 2-pack: Biodegradable and compostable, decomposing naturally within 6–8 weeks. Proper care extends its useful life, and when it's finally worn out, you can compost it guilt-free.
MAX Mud - Dishcloth, 2-pack
