Don't Toss That Worn-Out Dishcloth: Make Reusable Dryer Sheets

Your dishcloth has done the dishes for months. It's earned a promotion. Before it hits the compost, give it one more job: dryer sheet.

This is how I give my worn-out cloths a second life. It softens laundry, skips the single-use sheets and uses stuff you probably already have in the kitchen.

Wait, I thought cloths don't go in the dryer? You're right, and good memory. Heat wears cloths out faster, so we tell you to keep your everyday cloth out of the dryer. But a worn-out cloth is already headed for retirement. This is its farewell tour.

What you need

• 2 to 4 worn-out Swedish dishcloths
• 2 cups white vinegar (a natural fabric softener)
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable glycerin (softens clothes and helps the oil mix in)
• 30 to 40 drops of essential oil, like lavender, lemon or eucalyptus
• A glass jar or airtight container
• Scissors

How to make them

1. Cut the cloths. Cut each cloth into palm-sized squares that fit easily in your jar.
2. Mix the liquids. In a bowl, combine the water and vinegar.
3. Blend the oils. In a small cup, mix the glycerin and essential oil with a fork until blended.
4. Combine. Pour the oil mixture into the vinegar and water. Stir well.
5. Soak. Put the cloth squares in the jar and pour the liquid over them until they're fully soaked. Seal the lid.

How to use them

1. Pull out one square and wring it out well so it isn't dripping.
2. Toss it in the dryer with your wet laundry. Dry on low or medium heat.
3. When the load is done, put the square back in the jar to soak up more for next time.

My favorite version: citrus peel I love citrus, so I drop lemon or orange peels into the jar. They scent the vinegar naturally, and you can skip the essential oils completely. Keep the peels in the jar, not the dryer.

A quick safety note Essential oils are flammable. Wring the cloth well, stick to low or medium heat and clean your lint trap every load. If you'd rather skip oils, use the citrus peel version or plain vinegar and water. Don't worry, the vinegar smell doesn't stick around once your clothes are dry.

Tips

• The scent is strongest in the first month. Top off the jar with fresh liquid as needed.
• Label the jar so nobody mistakes it for pickle juice.
• Pair it with Sheet Happens laundry sheets. Wash with the sheet, dry with the cloth. No plastic jugs, no single-use dryer sheets.

The full life of a cloth Dishes, then laundry, then compost. When your dryer sheet finally gives out, cut it into small pieces and add it to your compost. That's a lot of good work from one little cloth.

Adding a little cheer to chores, right up to the very end.

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