Dishcloth

Dishcloths are typically square, and are usually made of cotton or other cloths.

A dishcloth or dishrag^[1] is used in the kitchen to clean dishes and surfaces. Dishcloths are typically made of cotton or other cloth, such as microfiber, and measure 11" to 13" inches square.^{[citation needed]}

Microwave disinfection[]

Dishcloths are often left damp and provide a breeding ground for bacteria. Since the kitchen sink is used to clean food, dishcloths are routinely infected with E. coli and salmonella. In 2007 a study from the found that putting a damp dishcloth (or sponge) in the microwave for 2 minutes killed 99% of living pathogens.^[2] However, fire departments have subsequently warned people not to do this as it can be a fire hazard, especially if the dishcloth or sponge is not sufficiently wet. Several small fires have been started as a result of people following the advice from the study.

References[]