Dishcloth
A dishcloth or dishrag[1] is used in the kitchen to clean dishes and surfaces. Dishcloths are typically made of cotton or other cloth, such as microfiber, and measure 11" to 13" inches square.[citation needed]
Microwave disinfection
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.[2] However, fire departments have subsequently warned people not to do this as it can be a fire hazard, especially if the dishcloth or sponge is not sufficiently wet. Several small fires have been started as a result of people following the advice from the study.
References
- ^ "DISHRAG | meaning in the Cambridge English Dictionary". dictionary.cambridge.org. Retrieved 2020-01-16.
- ^ "Microwave 'sterilisers' warning". bbc.co.uk. 2007-01-24. Retrieved 2020-01-16.