THE DISHCLOTH

New Zealand Times, Volume LXXVII, Issue 5474, 31 December 1904, Page 11

THE DISHCLOTH

This is * very homely subject, but one that is much neglected. . X am not going to toll whet circumrtancea took me into a neighbour’s kitchen the other day, but on approaching the sink I encountered the vilest odour! It came from a black and filthy rag, once part of an old suit of underwear,,and presently I discovered it was the dishcloth. The family didn’t seem to think there was anything wrong with it, and I saw it used, a little later, to wash out a milkpitcher and glass. If ever there were germs of dirt and disease m anything, there were such things in that abominable rag. I longed to take cne tongs and put it in the fire. Once, long ago, I was called on to help in a sudden emergency in a nariibonr's house, and on asking for the dishcloth was directed to a nail whereon hung a wad of wet rag, sour and dark-complexioned. The wau behind it was black with successive coats of mildew. The dishes, from glasses to pots and pans, were washed with this evil-smelling rag and wiped on pieces of old shirts and drawers. Somehow I always "spleened" against eating in that house forever afterwards; no great wonder, either. In hot weather the dishcloth should have particular care. It should be washed and scalded just as carefully and as often as the dishtowels, Have two—one to wash china with, the other for pans, etc. After using, hang where it will dry quickly. Scald in hot pearline water at least once during the week. The horrid odour that clings to dishes sometimes is wholly due'to foul and badsmelling towels and dishcloths. Do keep them sweet and clean.