What it is
A kitchen cloth is a working textile; drying dishes and wiping surfaces are different tasks. Separate cloths by use to avoid carrying contamination between areas.
When to use it
A clean, dry cloth can dry utensils; a separate one can be assigned to surfaces. A damp cloth beneath a board without a nonslip base helps stop it moving.
How to use it
Assign different cloths to different jobs. After drying dishes, hang the cloth to dry; if used for a spill, wash it after that use.
Cleaning and storage
Wash or change cloths regularly and let them dry before reuse. Dishcloths and tea towels should be machine-washed on a hot cycle.
Alternatives for each use
Disposable kitchen paper can be used to clean worktops and boards. This alternative is for cleaning, not for handling hot cookware.
Safe use
Do not reuse dirty, damp cloths, and keep them away from stovetops: they can carry bacteria and catch fire.
Frequently asked questions
Which tasks is it useful for?
A clean, dry cloth can dry utensils; a separate one can be assigned to surfaces. A damp cloth beneath a board without a nonslip base helps stop it moving.
How should it be cleaned after use?
Wash or change cloths regularly and let them dry before reuse. Dishcloths and tea towels should be machine-washed on a hot cycle.
What precaution should I remember?
Do not reuse dirty, damp cloths, and keep them away from stovetops: they can carry bacteria and catch fire.
Sources and review
Sources consulted for this utensil’s documented uses, care and characteristics.
- Safe Food Handling | FDA www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/safe-food-handling
- Organize Your Space - Spend Smart Eat Smart spendsmart.extension.iastate.edu/cook/organize-your-space/
- Cleaning and hygiene — NSW Food Authority www.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au/consumer/food-safety-home/cleaning-and-hygiene
- Cleaning — Food Standards Scotland www.foodstandards.gov.scot/consumer-advice/food-safety/food-safety-in-the-kitchen/cleaning
- Cook’s Tools — Alice Henneman, University of Nebraska Extension, hosted by Purdue Extension extension.purdue.edu/foodlink/includes/pubs/Kitchen%20Utensils.pdf
- Student guide to food safety and hygiene — Food Standards Agency www.gov.uk/government/publications/student-guide-to-food-safety-and-hygiene/student-guide-to…
