Swedish Dishcloths: The Complete Guide to Using, Washing and Choosing
Posted by Esthetic Living Team on Nov 12th 2026
A Swedish dishcloth is a reusable cleaning cloth made of 70% cellulose and 30% cotton. It absorbs up to 15 times its own weight, works like a sponge and a paper towel in one, can be machine washed, and is biodegradable at the end of its life. This guide covers what it is, how to use and wash it, how long it lasts and how to choose one.
In this guide: What it is · How to use it · How to wash it · How long it lasts · Dishcloth vs paper towels and sponges · How to choose · FAQ
What is a Swedish dishcloth?
The Swedish dishcloth has been used in Swedish kitchens since the 1950s. It is a thin, flat cloth made from cellulose (wood pulp) and cotton. Dry, it feels stiff, a bit like card stock. Wet, it turns soft and flexible, ready to wipe, wash and soak up spills.
Ours are made by Jangneus, a brand founded in 2009 by Swedish-born designer Marie Jangneus-Davis. Each cloth is 6.75" × 8", designed in Sweden and made in Germany. Read more in What Is a Swedish Dishcloth?.
How to use a Swedish dishcloth
- Wet the cloth under the tap.
- Wring it out well.
- Wipe counters, tables, the stovetop or the sink, wash dishes, or press it onto a spill.
- Rinse, wring and hang it over the faucet to dry.
It is best for everyday wiping and spills, not heavy scrubbing. Many people keep two: one for dishes and counters, and one for other jobs. It works outside the kitchen too, see 5 ways to use one in the bathroom. Full steps: How to Use a Swedish Dishcloth.
How to wash a Swedish dishcloth
| Method | How |
|---|---|
| Washing machine | Wash with your regular laundry, then air dry. |
| Dishwasher | Add it to a normal cycle, then air dry. |
| By hand | Rinse with warm water and dish soap after use. |
Avoid: fabric softener (it makes the cloth less absorbent) and the tumble dryer (the print fades faster). Always let the cloth dry between uses rather than leaving it wet in the sink. More detail in our complete care guide.
How long does a Swedish dishcloth last?
It depends on how often you use and wash it. With normal use, the printed design lasts around six months. Replace the cloth when it stops absorbing well, wears thin or tears. Because it is made of cellulose and cotton, it is 100% biodegradable. See How Long Do Swedish Dishcloths Last?.
Swedish dishcloth vs paper towels and sponges
| Swedish dishcloth | Paper towel | Sponge | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reusable | Yes, washable | No, single use | Yes, but hard to wash |
| Absorbency | Up to 15 times its weight | Low per sheet | Good |
| Drying | Dries flat and fast | Not applicable | Slow, stays damp |
| End of life | Biodegradable | Trash | Usually trash |
| Storage | Thin and flat | Bulky roll | Bulky |
One cloth takes over much of the everyday wiping you would otherwise do with paper towels. Read Paper Towels vs Swedish Dishcloths and Are Swedish Dishcloths Worth It?.
How to choose one
- Material: look for cellulose and cotton (ours are 70% and 30%).
- Print: pick one you like to see every day. Our best sellers are Herbs Green, Bees Yellow, Sheep Black, Dogs Black, Hen Blue and Fox Orange.
- How many: two or three, so one is always clean and dry.
- As a gift: a kitchen set pairs one tea towel with two matching dishcloths for $30, and the Christmas designs make easy stocking stuffers.
Shop all Jangneus Swedish dishcloths: more than 130 prints, $7 each. US orders over $49 ship free.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Swedish dishcloth made of?
70% cellulose and 30% cotton.
How absorbent is a Swedish dishcloth?
It can absorb up to 15 times its own weight in water.
Can you put Swedish dishcloths in the washing machine or dishwasher?
Yes, both. Let them air dry afterwards, and skip fabric softener and the tumble dryer.
How long do Swedish dishcloths last?
With normal use the print lasts around six months. Replace the cloth when it stops absorbing well or wears thin.
Are Swedish dishcloths biodegradable?
Yes. Jangneus Swedish dishcloths are 100% biodegradable.
Do Swedish dishcloths replace paper towels?
For most everyday wiping and spills, yes. Many households keep a few paper towels for very messy jobs.
Where can I buy Swedish dishcloths in the USA?
Esthetic Living carries more than 130 Jangneus prints at $7 each, with free US shipping over $49.