From the page: The t-shirt has many chapters ahead
Idea 7
Cleaning cloths and mop
Turning t-shirts into cleaning cloths is one of the oldest and most universal household practices — grandmothers and mothers all over the world have always had a drawer of "t-shirt rags". It works because knit cotton has capillary fibers that absorb water and grease by capillarity, without scratching delicate surfaces like glass and stainless steel.
What you need
- Old cotton t-shirts, clean and dry
- Fabric scissors or regular scissors
- Ruler or measuring tape (optional, for standardizing)
- Thread and needle or sewing machine (optional, for the mop)
- Sticks or handle pieces (optional, for a floor mop)
How to make it
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1
Wash and dry the t-shirts before cutting — this removes fabric softener residue, which reduces the fabric's absorbency.
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2
Cut the hem and sleeves first to free up the body of the t-shirt; use everything, including the sleeves, which become narrow cloths ideal for corners and hinges.
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3
Cut the body into 8 to 12 inch squares — this size fits well in the hand and in the folds of cleaning, without leftover ends getting in the way.
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4
Since knit fabric doesn't fray easily, no hem is needed: a straight cut lasts for months, even after many washes.
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5
For the floor mop, cut 10 to 15 knit strips about 16 inches long, gather them in the middle and secure with a firm knot or stitching — the double layer of strips holds more water and sheds less lint.
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6
Sort the cloths by function: some only for dust and glass, others only for grease and floors, avoiding transferring residue between surfaces.
Finishing touches
Light-colored cotton cloths show when they're dirty and can be boiled with soap to return to use. For glass and mirrors, use the smoothest part of the t-shirt, without print, which sheds the least lint.
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