Pro Cleaner’s Cleaning Hack Using Exfoliating Washcloths

I’m not averse to getting an arm workout when cleaning my home. Of course, I prefer it when the cleaning products do most of the work for me. So when I saw this pro cleaner’s IG reel touting an alternate use for exfoliating washcloths, I think I broke a record with how fast I clicked “add to cart.” 

Exfoliating washcloths are intended to scrub off dead skin and dirt from your body. But Cindy Hendler (@cleansnob) swears by using them to scrub away grime and other gunk around your home. 

Simply wet the washcloth, add some cleaning product, and get to scrubbing. Hendler suggests using them to scrub sinks, remove soap scum in showers and tubs, degrease stovetops, and more. My absolute favorite of her suggestions is to dampen a cloth and wipe down upholstery to remove pet hair.

Exfoliating washcloths have a texture similar to scouring pads, so these aren’t meant to replace softer microfiber cloths. I wouldn’t use these washcloths on anything that can’t hold up to abrasion, like stone countertops. I noticed in the video that Hendler used one to clean a glass shower. While I trust her wisdom as a cleaning pro, I’d suggest a lighter hand and a very wet cloth to avoid etching the surface if you try to do the same.

The best part about these washcloths is that you can simply toss them in the wash to clean and reuse them repeatedly. At just $9.99 for a pack of three, I’d consider replacing the scrubber sponges I’ve been using with these because they’ll last longer and are even easier to use, especially in tight corners. However, I’ll still reach for a regular sponge or my trusty microfiber cloth for more delicate surfaces, even if it means putting some elbow grease on the grimy spots.