The Cotton Dishcloth – A Year in Dishcloths…2023

Cotton yarn is a solid choice for crocheting and knitting dishcloths. The material is versatile, absorbent, naturally strong, available in multiple colors, and has a good texture for scrubbing away dirt. Aside from choosing 100% cotton yarn for a project, a cotton blend including silk or bamboo works

Why do you need 100% Cotton?

Can you use acrylic yarn to make a dishcloth?

In theory, you could knit a cloth from any yarn like acrylic. But as it’s a man-made fibre it will not absorb the water as cotton does. It would also not retain its shape well either.

Why is 100% Cotton Yarn Best for Dishcloths?

As you would expect dishcloths, and washcloths for the bathroom, not only get repeatedly wet but also are immersed in hot water. Natural cotton fibres stand up to this treatment much better than manmade fibres. Never use wool as it is easily distorted by too much heat.

Very absorbent, can leave a moisture free surface. Wash by hand or by machine at 40°C. For optimal hygiene wash your dish cloth every day – It may help to buy several sets if you don’t use your washing machine every day.

I am continuing to crochet through the Annie’s book – A Year of Dishcloths…these two included a shell stitch and a popcorn stitch. Any of these stitches could easily be transferred to a baby blanket or afghan.