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Swiffer-type cloths compostable?
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Posted by fitzlobl So. Cal. (Z10) (My Page) on Sat, Sep 20, 08 at 17:56
| 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. |
Follow-Up Postings:
RE: Swiffer-type cloths compostable?
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- Posted by jean001 z8aPortland, OR (My Page) on
Sat, Sep 20, 08 at 21:22
RE: Swiffer-type cloths compostable?
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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 |
RE: Swiffer-type cloths compostable?
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| 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
RE: Swiffer-type cloths compostable?
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| Again with the microfiber praises--not from you,witeowl, but I read someone else singing about them. By gum, I need some now. |
RE: Swiffer-type cloths compostable?
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| 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? |
RE: Swiffer-type cloths compostable?
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| 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. |
RE: Swiffer-type cloths compostable?
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| 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?? |
RE: Swiffer-type cloths compostable?
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| 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
RE: Swiffer-type cloths compostable?
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| A great place to get reusable swiffer covers that you can either get in 100% cotton or 100% recycled cotton, go here: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=33003067 |
Here is a link that might be useful: Swiffer Cover
RE: Swiffer-type cloths compostable?
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| Witeowl, if you are still reading this thread, how do you attach your microfiber cloths to the swiffer head? I have been trying for quite some time to find a microfiber mop, but they all have huge heads, like the size of a computer keyboard. I can't for the life of me figure out why the manufacturers don't make them in a standard mophead size. Who can maneuver that big ol' thing around a small kitchen? I use microfiber cloths all the time, and if my cloths will attach easily to a swiffer head, then my problem is solved! Thanks!
Dee |
RE: Swiffer-type cloths compostable?
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| If your swiffer mop has little push down hole things, you can push the thinner version down into the hole, just like you do the disposable ones. When I want to use the thicker version I use those little mini clamps (work great for resealing your chip bags too) and just wrap the cloth around, clamp on top. You could use the bigger clamp version of the paper clip--anything that will hold two ends together and you have on hand works. I just happen to be wild about the mini clamps and use them for 101 things so they are always convenient for me. And in case anyone is curious, microfiber is definitely NOT compostable. I don't even think you can destroy it. I have some that are 12+ years old and still going. But a roll of paper towels now last for months and months and months. |
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