How to Switch to Plastic-Free Washing Up
18 October 2026 · 4 min read
Simple swaps for sponges, cloths and brushes that cut plastic from your sink routine without making washing up harder.
Why the sink is a good place to start
Most kitchen sponges are made from plastic foam and get thrown away every few weeks. As they wear, they shed tiny plastic fibres straight down the drain.
Washing up is something you do every day, so one swap here makes a real difference over a year.
Swap 1: Sponges for Swedish dish cloths
Swedish dish cloths are made from cellulose and cotton. They soak up lots of water, dry quickly so they stay fresher, and can be washed and reused many times.
When one finally wears out, it can go in your home compost.
Swap 2: Plastic brushes for wood and plant fibre
A wooden dish brush with natural bristles handles plates and pans just as well as a plastic one. Look for brushes with replaceable heads so you keep the handle for years.
For burnt-on pans, a natural fibre pot scrubber does the heavy work without scratching.
Make them last
Rinse cloths and brushes after use and let them dry upright. Cloths can go in a hot wash every week or so to keep them fresh.
Ready to make the swap? Browse our reusable kitchen essentials or ask our Kitchen Helper.