Some people hate cleaning. Me? I'm a XY-chomosomed mean cleaning machine who finds the daily activity satisfying and rewarding. Do a little each day, instead of waiting for it to pile up is my mantra. But that does mean I tend to go through a wasteful cycle of using a lot of paper towels...maybe too often. So I'm embarking on changing my cleaning habits and incorporating a very simple system that will save not only the environment, but also my wallet, by incorporating super absorbent cloths.
posted originally from: AT:LA
I've already weaned myself from a dependence on those Swiffer cleaning cloths (or the knock-offs you can find at the 99 Cents Only Stores), using the Method microfiber mop pads for floor cleaning duties. And in the same vein, I'm switching over to using microfiber cloths from Trader Joe's for daily cleaning, designating the yellow colored cloths for counters and surfaces, and blue cloths for windows and mirrors. A couple of sets allows me to use one set while the other set is drying.
No, we won't be completely ridding ourselves of paper towels...we still keep a roll or two around for pet messes (our poor feline friend Eames is battling a urinary infection) and other accidents. But we've never really believed in a strict all or nothing lifestyle...thoughtful moderation can go a long way, whether for the home, budget or environment.
I've been wanting to start using a microfiber cloth instead of paper towels, but I worry about them getting all germy, like sponges do.
view Victoria E's profile
Victoria E, aren't they machine washable?
If not (and I don't know why they wouldn't be) you can sanitize your sponges by nuking them, very wet, for 2 minutes, or boiling them for several. So I'm sure you could do the same with the cloths.
view mjoe's profile
I love the amazing kitchen cloth from trader joes. It works so much better than the paper towels because it can absorb so much more. Also just throw it in the washing machine every once and awhile for it to get clean.
view Signe's profile
Microfiber cloths are fabulous. They clean so very well and come out great after a toss in the washing machine. Many times, all it takes is warm water and a microfiber cloth to clean off appliances and or counters.
view rose's profile