An ordinary miracle - rags for cleaning without using detergents

A clean house without harmful household chemicals is the dream of every housewife, and special napkins and rags for cleaning without detergents will help make it a reality.
One such cloth will replace a whole arsenal of sponges, brushes and various chemical gels, powders and liquids.

Once you have studied all the intricacies of choosing, using and storing such napkins, you can forever forget about stains and scratches, the unpleasant smell of household chemicals and a lot of time spent on the tedious cleaning process.

What kind of napkins are these, what is the principle of their operation?

An innovative product - cleaning wipes without detergents - are made of non-woven material and are characterized by increased absorption of moisture, small particles of dirt and grease.

Particularly thin fibers (the base of the non-woven fabric) are cut into several parts, which provides a capillary effect. For reference: the capillary effect is a physical phenomenon in which wetting liquids rise through capillaries, and non-wetting liquids descend.

Due to the numerous flat slits in the fibers, capillary force helps to quickly attract any contaminants to the surface of the rag. Combining several types of materials (for example, polyamide and polyester) that differ in electrostatic charge in one napkin enhances the capillary effect.

In order to enhance the neutralizing effect of rags, the manufacturer adds silver ions to the non-woven material .

What are they and how are they different?

On the shelves of hardware stores there is a wide range of wipes for cleaning without detergents. Conventionally, they can be divided into the following groups:

1. 
   Microfiber cloths are products made from synthetic materials (polyester, polyamide).
   Special double-sided weaving makes the cleaning process easier and faster. Wipes not only remove dust from the surface, but also polish it. Microfiber perfectly absorbs moisture. Microfiber cloths can be washed either manually or in an automatic machine (water temperature no more than 60° C).

2. Bamboo cloths are products made from natural materials that perfectly absorb moisture. After use they do not leave streaks or scratches. Does not absorb extraneous unpleasant odors. Suitable for washing dishes. With proper care, they can withstand up to five hundred cleanings.
3. Viscose wipes are ideal for dry cleaning (especially for cleaning household appliances). Since the composition includes compressed wood cellulose, the rag cannot be wetted (with prolonged contact with water, it spreads and begins to emit an unpleasant odor).
4. Cellulose sponge wipes are a great option for cleaning the kitchen or bathroom. Rags remove not only dirt, debris and unpleasant odors, but also bacteria, fungi, and mold spores. After use, the rag must be washed in a soapy solution, then under running cool water.

In addition to the main material of manufacture, the manufacturer can indicate on the label what specific purposes the rags are intended for (for example, glass wipes or rags for washing and disinfecting dishes).

Rating of TOP 8 cleaning napkins

The rating includes 8 cleaning napkins that have become popular among Russian housewives. They are all made from different materials and have different characteristics. I suggest you first familiarize yourself with the list of participants:

Red Cat M-01 Eso

The specimen is made of microfiber, that is, a synthetic material containing polyester and polyamide. It has a special weave with small fibers that penetrate into the holes and improve the quality of cleaning. After use, no lint remains on the surface. Has a soft polishing effect. Has good moisture absorption properties. These wipes are designed for dry and wet cleaning.

• convenient size;
• more suitable for dry cleaning than wet cleaning;
• affordable price.

• thin and absorb little water.

For the price, the napkins are normal. They are thin and absorb little moisture, but are great for dry cleaning. Villi do not remain on the surface. Over time, the rag does not fade or fall apart. Keeps its shape for a long time. Size 25x25 is what you need. I use it daily mainly to remove dust from furniture.

Microfiber cloths come in two types: with or without short pile, and also with long pile. The former are suitable for polishing or washing glass, and the latter for dry cleaning. High-density rags absorb moisture better, so they are used for wet cleaning of floors.

Udalix wet wipes for removing stains

Wet wipes are designed to remove stains from fabrics, shoes, furniture and carpets. According to the Russian manufacturer, they can help in the fight against stains left by yogurt, cosmetics, ink, fat, iodine, marker, berries, coffee and others. Napkins can be used not only in the house, but also in the car. There are 15 pieces in a package. Directions for use: rub the stain and then leave it for 1-3 minutes to allow it to react with the detergent. If there are any stains left, it is enough to rinse the item in running water or wipe it with a damp, clean cloth.

• copes well with fresh stains;
• convenient packaging;
• clean shoes, especially sneakers;
• affordable price.

• can’t cope with yesterday’s stains;
• Does not remove traces of cosmetics.

These wipes do not remove all stains. For example, cosmetics and yesterday's products are beyond their power. Otherwise it's a good thing. Especially useful on the road, to work or to a meeting. Quickly removes stains perfectly. I wipe my shoes and bag with them. I would give it a rating of 4, since they do not cope with all the stated options.

House Lux universal 25*30 cm

Dry wipes are available in rolls. Material viscose and polyester. They are suitable for dry and wet cleaning. They have a high degree of absorption and can be used to collect moisture from surfaces. Can be used for glass and mirrors, and also as a polish. Various detergents and cleaning products can be used together with them. Excellent collection of dust, water, grease. They hold dirt and therefore do not streak. There are 125 sheets per roll, which can be easily torn off using perforations.

• convenient for use at home;
• perfectly absorb various liquids;
• do not leave lint on surfaces.

• Small size, so you have to tear off two pieces at once.

Excellent napkins and comfortable. I wash almost everything with them: I use them in the kitchen for dishes and wiping the table, I do wet cleaning (removing dust on furniture), I wash mirrors and glass. Does not leave streaks or lint. If you spill something, you tear off the sheet and quickly collect the moisture. Very convenient to use.

If you choose the right rag, it will allow you to put in less effort when cleaning and will do it efficiently. You can read about this in more detail at the end of this review.

Vileda spongiosa

Natural rags for cleaning the house, made of cellulose and cotton. They have good density, do not deform over time and have an increased degree of liquid absorption. For long-term use, it is recommended to wash them in warm water, but not in a washing machine. Suitable for wet cleaning. Long cotton fibers make the material resistant to deformation and therefore more durable. They can absorb up to 15 times more water (up to 100 ml) than the product’s own weight. When dry, they do not break.

• have good absorption;
• dry quickly and do not emit unpleasant odors;
• convenient size;
• leave no streaks.

• After several washes they lose their appearance.

I've been using these sponges for a little over a year now. Excellent for collecting water, spilled tea or juice. They are very dense and durable. Before this I used Freken BOK and in comparison I can say that Weleda is much better. I use it mainly in the kitchen. But I also bought it for washing windows and mirrors. They do an excellent job and do not leave streaks or lint. Can be used with all non-aggressive household chemicals.

Set of napkins in a roll Scotch-Brite GPW-ROL

The mesh structure of the sheets allows you to absorb moisture well and remove dust and dirt from smooth surfaces. They come off quickly and easily thanks to the perforation. Made from viscose. This material is excellent for wet and dry cleaning. It is not expensive, does not produce electrostatics and does not leave lint. But these types of rags need to be changed frequently and cannot be machine washed. An unpleasant odor quickly forms.

• convenient packaging and perforation;
• suitable for daily cleaning;
• do not leave lint on the surface.

• do not wipe dry.

I've been using these wipes for several years. I buy different brands and they are all pretty similar. The differences are minor. It is convenient to carry out wet cleaning and does not need to be washed. Economical. Moisture is not completely absorbed. If you wipe the table, small droplets remain. But it’s easy to wash mirrors and glass without streaks.

Kleenex Viva rags

The material of this product is made of cellulose with the addition of polypropylene. It is only suitable for wet cleaning. Easily collects dust and dirt from smooth surfaces thanks to honeycomb-shaped perforations on the entire surface of the product. It can be squeezed out and rinsed repeatedly without losing its properties. Compatible with all detergents and cleaning products used in everyday life. The sheets are suitable for cleaning in the kitchen and throughout the house, and some women use them to remove the sticky layer when doing manicures. They have good moisture absorption properties.

• soft and papery to the touch;
• do not leave lint;
• absorb moisture well;
• don't spread.

• difficult to find on store shelves.

A few years ago I tried these rags and immediately liked them. Therefore, I try to buy only them, although they are difficult to find in stores. They feel like very soft paper, but when in contact with water and detergents they do not unravel. Can be rinsed repeatedly. Excellent absorption of various liquids. I use it not only in the kitchen, but also for wet cleaning of the apartment.

Vileda Actifiber

This product is made of microfiber and polyvinyl acetate. According to the manufacturer, the wipes can absorb up to 100 ml of liquid and can even remove grease without the use of detergent. It is better to use only for wet cleaning. Excellent for cleaning mirror surfaces, glass, plumbing fixtures and taps. And also suitable for monitors and TV screens. Machine washable, but without using conditioner.

• excellent polish;
• do not leave lint on the surface;
• do not require much effort;
• no detergents needed;
• convenient packaging.

• not identified.

Before that, I used microfiber cloths from the White Cat company. But these are much better. No detergents needed. They clean mirrors and glass perfectly without leaving lint or streaks. You need to wash it more often so it doesn't stink. Lasts a very long time.

Such napkins cannot be dried on radiators, as they lose their properties.

Pingo, 54 cm x 44 cm

The napkin is made of synthetic suede and has a very high moisture absorption of up to 720%. It will wipe dry any wet chrome, paint, mirror and glass surfaces. When cleaning windows, you don’t have to use detergents. The product collects dirt well, but it can only be used when wet. When the rag dries, it hardens and is afraid of bends and fractures. Drying can only be done naturally. When working, it does not leave streaks, streaks or lint. If the product is heavily soiled, it must be thoroughly rinsed in warm water without detergents. The same procedure must be carried out upon first use.

• very high moisture absorption rate;
• wipes surfaces dry;
• does not leave streaks, lint or dirt;
• does not require detergents.

• when dry it can break, so it requires careful storage.

This rag is sold in car dealerships, but it is great for wet cleaning around the house. Has very high absorption. It is easy for her to clean windows and mirrors and does not require any products. You squeeze it dry and it wipes away without leaving any streaks or drops. The size is just right and comfortable. Washing the rag itself is also not difficult. Simply rinse in water.

Why and how to use it?

When choosing a cleaning napkin, you need to pay attention not only to the cost and size, but also to the purpose for which it is intended.

Cellulose or bamboo rags can be used to clean greasy deposits on kitchen surfaces or lime deposits on bathroom tiles. A microfiber cloth will help you clean the floor efficiently and without streaks. It will also help remove specks and dust from polished furniture.

Microfiber cloths with very short pile (or no pile at all) will restore shine and shine to mirror and glass surfaces in a matter of minutes.

A viscose rag will help clean household appliances from dust . It will not only remove all debris, but also remove static tension, which attracts the smallest specks from the air to the surface.

How to wash windows and glass

Polishing with smooth microfiber
Washing windows is a labor-intensive process. They should be transparent, free from stains and dirt, and transmit light well. Chemical detergents leave cloudy marks, and abrasive particles scratch the surface of glass and window sills. Some housewives add ammonia to the water, which causes spasm of the respiratory tract and is especially harmful for asthmatics. You can use regular cotton or flannel rags. But you will need a large amount of water, sprays and special liquids for washing glass.

A special cloth for cleaning windows without detergents will help you wash your windows. It is recommended to choose products made from microfiber or microfiber with a porous structure. They absorb moisture well and do not leave streaks or lint.

Note! Synthetic suede cloths can also clean glass without chemicals. Due to their porous structure and corrugated surface, they work perfectly. There is no need to additionally wipe with a dry cloth.

Features of use

For dry cleaning, there is no need to wet the cloth. Thanks to the properties of the fiber from which the cloth is made, one hand movement is enough to collect:

• all dust particles
• garbage,
• as well as fungi,
• dust mites from a contaminated surface.

Before starting wet cleaning, lightly moisten the cloth with water (you can use a spray bottle). To clean particularly contaminated surfaces, dip a rag in water for a few minutes, then squeeze thoroughly to remove excess moisture.

The process of washing dishes deserves special attention . A detergent-free napkin does a great job of removing grease if you wash dishes under running hot water. Particularly contaminated kitchen utensils (a cup with coffee residue, a pan with dried fat) are treated with a damp, wrung-out cloth several times.

After cleaning, the cloth must be washed in hot water. If there are particles of fat or other stubborn dirt left on the fabric, immerse the rag in boiling water for 2-3 minutes (no longer).

How to choose?

When choosing a napkin for washing dishes, pay special attention to such points as:

• 
  absorbency (natural materials absorb fat better and do not leave streaks);

• hygiene (the ability to block the development of bacteria and fungi is inherent in bamboo napkins);
• size (the optimal size of a dishcloth is 30*30 cm, larger napkins are good for cleaning the floor).

In order for the selected dishwashing napkin to 100% meet your expectations of effectiveness, you must carefully study the composition before purchasing. Sometimes on the front side of the package there is the inscription “viscose napkins”, but in fact, the composition indicates only 30% viscose and 70% polyester. Of course, such a product is not of high quality and durability.

Pros and cons of use

Those who have just acquired a cleaning cloth for cleaning without detergents will appreciate its benefits after the first use:

• easy care (after use, just rinse the cloth under running water);
• environmental friendliness (quickly and efficiently cleans any surface without the use of household chemicals harmful to the environment);
• has bactericidal properties (in addition to particles of dust, grease and small debris, it removes bacteria and fungi, mold spores from surfaces);
• practicality (non-woven material does not leave lint after cleaning, retains the shine and gloss of polished surfaces);
• cost-effectiveness (considering that cleaning with such a cloth does not require detergents, the budget savings are obvious).

Of course, with all the positive properties of chemical-free cleaning wipes, you cannot do without some negative aspects:

• in comparison with household chemicals, it will take much longer to remove burnt-on grease and stubborn dirt with a rag for cleaning without detergents;
• Washing dishes without chemicals with a special napkin increases water consumption.

Many people think that chemical-free cleaning cloths are very expensive. But comparing how much money is spent on various household chemicals, and most importantly, the harm that these chemicals have on human health and the environment, the question of the high cost of special cleaning wipes disappears by itself.

The principle of operation of special cleaning rags

These napkins and rags are made of special thin fibers that have increased absorbency. Rags made from Japanese microfiber have a capillary effect. Some have built-in silver ions to disinfect surfaces being treated. Other innovative cleaning products are made from cotton mixed with bamboo fiber and have a porous tubular structure. Non-woven material is used for production. Chemical-free cleaning cloths absorb grease and dirt stronger than usual.

Housewives use chemical-free cloths to clean the kitchen

New smart products replace classic dish sponges, which quickly become greasy and become unusable. Rags and rags from old things smell unpleasant after cleaning and need to be washed using chemicals.

Innovative wipes are moistened with water and wiped dirty surfaces. They effectively remove grease, dirt, and carbon deposits from frying pans and stoves. They don't leave streaks.

Note! A room cleaner only needs 1 universal rag to quickly clean up the mess. For a more thorough approach, it is worth buying a set of special products.

Assortment of cleaning products

There are various types of chemical-free products for successful and quick cleaning in the house:

• universal napkins;
• wipes for washing and disinfecting dishes;
• glass wipes;
• care mittens;
• discs for processing hard-to-reach places;
• kitchen cleaning sponges;
• mops for cleaning floors and other surfaces.

Top 3 best brands

Among the range of cleaning wipes without chemicals, the most attractive in terms of quality and efficiency are:

Greenway AQUAmagic

High-tech napkins and towels made from split fiber. They will quickly remove any dirt and unpleasant odors from the surface . Products are manufactured in Japan. The price of one cleaning napkin is 500 rubles. Read reviews here and here.

Homestar

Cloths made of a variety of materials (microfiber, bamboo, viscose) will quickly cope with any stains without aggressive household chemicals. Among the entire variety of Homestar napkins, everyone can choose the most suitable option for themselves. Price of the set (3 pcs.) 100 rub.

Bon Home

Multifunctional bamboo fiber cloths perfectly clean any surface without detergents. The average cost of a package (5 pieces) is 50 rubles. Read reviews here.

Before purchasing, it would be a good idea to ask the seller to show quality certificates for the selected napkins. This is the only way to be sure of the effectiveness and beneficial properties of the selected product.

TOP 5 best products

When going to the store for dishwashing napkins, you should pay special attention to the following products:

Accord Freken Bock

Cellulose napkins Accord Freken Bock. Made from natural fibers . The dense structure ensures maximum moisture absorption. After use it does not leave streaks on glass and glossy surfaces.

The cloths dry very quickly, which minimizes the risk of bacteria and mold developing on the surface. The average cost is 150 rubles. (quantity 3 pcs.). Read reviews here, here and here.

AQUAMAGIC ABSOLUTE

The AQUAMAGIC ABSOLUTE dishwashing napkin has a special texture (hard pile on one side, smooth surface on the other) . Thanks to this, the cloth will help remove even the most stubborn stains in cold water.

Using AQUAMAGIC ABSOLUTE helps you save money on buying household chemicals (the napkin perfectly cleans dishes without detergents). The average cost is 245 rubles. (quantity 1 pc.). Read reviews here and here.

VETTA

The VETTA microfiber cloth is highly hygroscopic (absorbs seven times more moisture than its own weight). Microfiber perfectly absorbs not only liquid, but also fat and other contaminants. VETTA cloths do not leave streaks or lint. The average cost is 75 rubles. (quantity 1 pc.). Read reviews here.

Household Clean Cloth

Household Clean Cloth napkins will turn the daily process of washing dishes into a fun experience. Viscose attracts dirt and grease and helps maintain the shine and shine of crystal, glass, glossy, and chrome surfaces without much effort.

The average cost is 210 rubles. (quantity 3 pcs.).

Dream time

Dream time cleaning wipes are made from natural bamboo fibers. They are not saturated with grease, so they do not leave streaks or oily marks on the surface. Quickly and easily clean kitchen utensils without using detergents. The average cost is 200 rubles. (quantity 2 pcs.).

Before purchasing special dishcloths, you need to make sure that the product is safe. At the buyer's request, the seller is obliged to provide certificates stating that the goods do not pose a threat to human health.

Reviews

Housewives who have already tried cleaning wipes without detergents in practice share positive reviews and impressions:

Alena, Kazakhstan, Astana : “It’s been ten months since I replaced household chemicals with one super-rag for cleaning without detergents, and I don’t regret it. The house is clean and tidy, while my hands remain soft and gentle. A napkin for cleaning without chemicals is of course more expensive than ordinary rags, but such costs are not comparable to health and clean air in the house.”

Maria, Moscow : “At first I was skeptical about using these miracle wipes. But under the pressure of a friend, I made up my mind and bought myself several napkins for cleaning without detergents. A miracle happened. The napkin perfectly cleans kitchen surfaces, dishes, tiles, bathroom tiles and hallway floors.”

Olga, Novorossiysk : “For more than five years, there have been no household chemicals in my house. In the first few years, gels and powders were replaced by lemon juice and baking soda, but I was able to give them up when I cleaned the house for the first time using a special napkin. Quickly, efficiently and, most importantly, safely, the rag removes any dirt, grease stains, or mold.”

How to extend service life?

Manufacturers of special rags for cleaning without chemicals guarantee a service life of two to five years. But with proper care, you can extend the life of the napkins.

It is enough to follow some rules:

1. 
   After each use, rinse the napkin under running water without using synthetic detergents.
   In special cases (if very heavily soiled), the rag can be washed in a washing machine using shavings of laundry soap instead of powder.

2. Drying is carried out only in a dark, well-ventilated place. Rags should not be dried on a radiator or near an open fire. Store washed and dry rags in a clean, closed closet.

On the packaging, the manufacturer must provide clear instructions for the proper use and storage of special wipes. A detailed study of the information and strict adherence to all recommendations will help preserve the beneficial properties of the rags for the longest possible period of time.

Adviсe

To prevent the napkin from losing its cleansing properties, it is strictly forbidden to wet it:

• acetone,
• bleach,
• chlorine-containing solutions,
• solvent.

You can simultaneously remove dust from furniture and polish surfaces if you moisten the middle of the napkin with a small amount of water before using it (the edges should remain dry).

Do not dry napkins with an iron. Sudden exposure to high temperatures will cause the fibers of the rag to stretch and lose their positive properties.