Dishcloth

A dishcloth, dishrag,[1] is used in the kitchen to clean or dry dishes and surfaces.

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 Journal of Environmental Health found that putting a damp dishcloth (or sponge) in the microwave for 2 minutes killed 99% of living pathogens.

Several small fires have been started as a result of people following the advice from the study.

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