It’s a common misconception that wipes and rags are interchangeable. We’ve all heard of wipes and rags, and use them for a wide variety of cleaning, but what’s the difference between these daily go-to supplies? Which one is the better choice, and why?

CONSISTENCY:  

Because rags are made from recycled clothing, they are irregular in size, shape and material, and sometimes contain contaminants like zippers, buttons, seams, pins and even organic matter. Wipes, instead, come ready to use, with the same size and format every time. Wipes are also perfect for on-the-go cleaning, because they can be easily carried in a work vehicle or truck, ready for any unexpected messes that may arise. Whether you’re at a commercial kitchen, in the office, factory, wipes are a readily available, portable cleaning solution that ensures you’re always prepared.

 

EFFICIENCY: 

Not only do rags often require more force to get equipment and surfaces clean, they also can harbor bacteria and germs, especially if they are not properly cleaned and stored. On the other hand, the texture and design of wipes can be tailored to tackle different surfaces and messes, making them highly effective in removing dirt, grease, and stains. Wipes offer a consistent and even distribution of cleaning agents, ensuring thorough cleaning with each wiping action, often meaning you can clean the same amount of space with less wipes, than if rags were used.

COST:

On most occasions the cost of a wipe will be lower than that of a piece of rag giving wipes a clear advantage on cost. Also to consider, with one wipe, you can clean a space that might take three or four rags, since they are tailored for the job. This not only makes wipes more efficient, as previously mentioned, but also more budget-friendly, as you can get the same (if not better) results with less wipes than rags. Further, wipes are readily available, and are often sold in dispenser and bulk packs, reducing their cost even more. You can stock up on wipes and always have them on hand for any cleaning task that comes your way.

HYGIENE: 

Rags are often used over and over again and harbor bacteria and germs when they are not leaned and stored properly. Wipes are designed to be disposable, meaning you don’t have to stress about their storage and maintenance, whilst simultaneously reducing cross-contamination and the spread of germs. With wipes, you can confidently create a cleaner and healthier workspace with less effort.

 

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: 

As we consider the benefits of wipes vs rags, it’s also important to take a closer look at their environmental impact. Rags are a great sustainable option, as they come from recycled clothing, however you often need to use (and dispose of) a greater quantity to get the job done. The composition of many wipes include synthetic materials which are not biodegradable. However, some companies like Trugrade are introducing biodegradable and compostable products made from natural fibres to strike a balance between cleanliness and sustainability. Additionally, it is also important to use wipes and rags only when necessary and to properly dispose of them to reduce waste and environmental impact.

OVERALL:

In the end, it’s up to you to decide. Wipes provide a streamlined cleaning experience that is inexpensive, effective, hygienic and convenient – and with the development of newer biodegradable and compostable wipes to reduce environmental impact, wipes will be a better option for many applications.

 

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