Swiffer-type cloths compostable?

15 years ago

Hi, all. I am curious if anyone knows if the Swiffer-type dry cloths are compostable. I cannot find any information on the box to tell me what kind of fibers they are made from (natural or synthetic). As much as I hate to use disposable cleaning products, ever since I got a very lovable, but highly shedding dog, I find these are indispensable for daily maintenance. I know the dog's hair is compostable, so if I could just throw the whole thing in the pile, that would be great. I have sent an email request to the Swiffer website, but have no idea when to expect an answer (if ever). If Swiffer cloths are not compostable, maybe someone can suggest a similar product that is...?

Many thanks in advance.

Featured Answer

witeowl

15 years ago

I've suggested them before, but I'll keep on keeping on: microfiber cloths rock. (Not that you asked...)

I use them now on the bottom of my regular (dry) swiffer mop and use them with plain water to clean my kitchen floor. They're also fantastic for dusting and it's so refreshing to clean the bathroom without the stench of chemicals.

Be sure to wash them on their own (I have enough to stock up for a full small laundry load) and don't use any fabric softener.

Here is a link that might be useful: microfiber at amazon

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Comments (9)

jean001
15 years ago
Not compostable.
louisianagal
15 years ago
It seems these things are made of a polyester fiber, which I think is a petroleum derivative. One could argue that petroleum is an "organic material" altho it is not plant-based. Could you use a dry or damp paper towel, at least on some of the days, and that could be composted with the pet hair. Something like "Bounty" that is thicker and doesn't fall apart easily.
Laurie
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I use the big wide swiffer type mop that has 2 heads, one for dusting, one for mopping. I think the Bruce people make this mop, not sure, can't remember. Both mop heads are washable. To mop laminate I use Taaka Vodka w/water, a little squirt of dish soap, then spritz with a spray bottle and mop as I go. No, I don't drink the vodka and water, it goes on the floor. For the tile I use the same cleaning solution, but use a string mop for more heavy duty mopping. For those of you using vinegar on your tile floors, remember vinegar will strip any sealant that is on your grout because of the acid. Also, swiffer liquid will discolor and dull certain types of tile finishes. I use the same Vodka/water and soap for the granite, ss appliances, glass, etc. along with a microfibre cloth. It works on almost everything. I do not use it on painted or stained wood surfaces as the alcohol could strip or dull the finish. I was using rubbing alcohol instead of pure alcohol and then learned the fumes from rubbing alcohol are dangerous to inhale. I prefer not to use any chemical cleaners in my house. Will use bleach rarely if needed, but that's about it for chemical cleaners. I use Greased Lightning for cleaning litter boxes outside. Spray, let set, hose and they are spotless without having to touch the inside of the box.
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petalpatsy
15 years ago
Again with the microfiber praises--not from you,witeowl, but I read someone else singing about them. By gum, I need some now.
mauirose
15 years ago
They do rock cand you do need some. But what does it mean that customers who bought the microfiber cloths also bought the Groom Mate nose and ear hair trimmer?
Kimmsr
15 years ago
They are made from a material that is non renewable. They are not compostable and as a result are a product that will simply fill up the landfills. A product people concerned about their environment would not use.
terrene
15 years ago
Witeowl, please tell me more about these microfiber rags. I can't fathom how you can clean the bathroom with just a cloth and without using soap and water. Why don't you have to use a cleaner with them? And why do you need to wash them in their own load??
witeowl
15 years ago
Cleaners work because they contain surfactants, which allows dirt to be loosened up and carried away with the water. In contrast, microfiber cloths have tiny scrubbers which grab dirt and lift it away without the need for surfactants. Also, because microfiber cloths are ultra-absorbent, they're not just pushing the dirt around, they really grab and lock in the dirt.

(Do note that I still use disinfectants on my kitchen counters.)

I recommend washing them on their own because of this very "grabby" nature. They can't be washed with anything that creates lint. I'm not going to figure out what does and doesn't create lint, so I just wash them on their own. (I do wash two different type of microfiber cloth together, though.)

By the way, don't buy the "microfiber" they sell in grocery stores. It's nowhere near the same quality you'll find elsewhere. I'm half convinced that those inferior products are put on the shelves to convince consumers that they can't do without their cleaning chemicals.

Here is a link that might be useful: How microfiber works
HU-344241986
3 years ago
Swifter has partnered with TerraCycle to recycle its wet and dry refill products. Go to TerraCycle.com for information and to sign up.

Swiffer-type cloths compostable?

witeowl

Comments (9)

jean001

louisianagal

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