Invented in 1949 by Swedish engineer Curt Lindqvist, swedish kitchen towels They have become a symbol of domestic sustainability. Are a mix between cloth and sponge, made with natural wood and cotton fibers, which combine functionality, durability and respect for the environment. They are flexible texture and its ability to absorb up to fifteen times its own weight They have made them popular in northern European countries for decades, and now they are also conquering Spanish homes.
Unlike synthetics, which are usually made with materials derived from petroleum, these they do not release microplasticssmall particles that are released during washing of artificial fabrics and end up in rivers and oceans, contaminating the ecosystem. Swedish cloths They are composed solely of plant fibersso they do not generate this type of invisible, but highly harmful waste.
Another of its advantages is that its compostablethat is, when they can no longer be reused, they can be deposited together with the organic remains so that they decompose naturally. In a few weeks they are transformed into biodegradable matter that returns to the cycle of nature without leaving a trace. A clear example of how an everyday product can have an environmentally friendly end..
These cloths They dry quickly, do not retain odors and can be washed in both a washing machine and a dishwasher, withstanding temperatures of up to 90 degrees.. For those for whom sustainability has become a priority, they represent a practical and accessible alternative to conventional cleaning products.
Advantages over synthetic cloths
Microfiber cloths or polyester cloths have dominated kitchens for years due to their low cost and ease of use. However, their ecological footprint is considerable: during washing they release microplastics that end up in the water, and since they are synthetic products, they cannot be recycled or degraded. Swedish cloths, on the other hand, are made with renewable materials—mainly cellulose and cotton—that decompose naturally..
In addition to their positive impact on the environment, they have practical advantages. They are much more absorbent (up to twenty times their weight), leave no traces or lint and have a longer lifespan.. Being reusable for months, they drastically reduce the consumption of kitchen paper and disposable products. Their texture also prevents the proliferation of bacteria, making them more hygienic and safer for daily use..
With these advantages on the table, more and more consumers are looking to incorporate this type of cloth into their home routine. Below, we present four options available on the market that combine practical design, efficiency and sustainability.
Set of four Wild&Stone Swedish kitchen towels in assorted colors
Directly inspired by the original 1949 invention, these cloths maintain the traditional composition: a mixture of wood and cotton fibers which provides a soft and resistant texture. They absorb up to fifteen times their weight, clean without leaving streaks and are perfect for any surfacefrom countertops to glass.
Its maintenance is simple: They can be washed in a washing machine or dishwasher at high temperatures and air dried..
Remarkable that all the firm’s packaging is kraft packaging -a type of high-resistance paper or cardboard made from wood pulp- recyclable, without plastics and using only toxin-free vegetable dyes.
Pack of 10 cloths in three colors, super absorbent from Aidea
The pack of 10 Aidea cloths – in blue, pink and yellow tones – offers an economical and resistant alternative. Made with cellulose and cotton, they stand out for their absorption capacity (up to 20 times their weight) and for eliminating all types of traces and odors. that conventional sponges could leave behind.
Their main advantage is durability: they can be washed up to 200 timesreducing the use of paper towels and disposable cloths. According to the manufacturer, each package can replace up to 15 rolls of kitchen paper. They are safe for all surfaces, from marble to stainless steel, and Their non-abrasive texture makes them suitable even for glassware.
In addition, the brand offers a satisfaction guarantee, reinforcing its commitment to the consumer and the environment.
Set of 3 Swedish kitchen towels, in original and different prints, from DII Swedish
The pack of three DII Swedish cloths combines a variety of designs and prints, with generation of ecological and sustainable awareness. Made with 70% cellulose and 30% cotton, they incorporate water-based inks with colorful patterns, making them a decorative as well as a functional element.
They absorb up to 15 times their weight, are soft, non-abrasive and stand out for their versatility: They are used to clean kitchens, bathrooms, glass and furniture without leaving marks. They can be washed in both the washing machine and the dishwasher, maintaining their shape and effectiveness after multiple uses.
Monochrome pack of 10 highly absorbent cloths from The EcoGurus
For those who prefer a simpler and more functional aesthetic, the pack of 10 monochromatic cloths offers a high-end option. Made in Sweden with 100% natural materials from renewable forests, they combine resistance, anti-lint texture and an absorption power of up to 20 times its weight.. They have several options in different shades.
Each cloth can be reused up to 50 times, equivalent to 500 uses per pack, a remarkable durability compared to conventional products.. Their surface makes it easy to remove stubborn stains, and their durable structure makes them reliable allies for cleaning dishes, countertops, and appliances.
They represent the essence of Swedish philosophy: efficiency, durability and respect for nature.
Swedish kitchen towels are an example of how everyday changes can make a difference in the fight against overconsumption and plastic pollution. Replacing synthetic cloths or kitchen paper with a compostable and durable alternative is not only a practical decision, but also a step towards a more responsible home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Swedish Kitchen Towels
How should they be washed to keep them in good condition?
They can be washed in a washing machine or dishwasher, preferably at high temperatures (up to 90°C) to eliminate bacteria and odors. It is recommended to let them air dry, avoiding the dryer, to preserve their shape and texture.
How are they really different from microfiber cloths?
Swedish cloths are made from natural materials (cellulose and cotton) and do not release microplastics when washed. In addition, they are compostable, more absorbent and do not retain odors, unlike synthetic cloths that take years to degrade and contaminate the water with plastic particles.
Can I use them to clean any surface?
Yes. Swedish cloths are safe for all types of materials, such as stainless steel, wood, glass, marble or ceramic. They do not scratch and leave surfaces without marks, so they can be used in both the kitchen and the bathroom or to clean glass and furniture.
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*All purchase prices included in this article are current as of November 10, 2025.
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