Steel wool is one of the most used cleaning product used in kitchens as they help clear the grease and stuck food particles from the dishes. It’s a perfect choice for people who have metal pots and pans because steel wool is made from thin and shaved steel – this is why it cannot be used for nonstick pans. The shaved steel is made into pads or small rolls, which makes it easier to clean the hardened grease and food particles. However, if you don’t want to use steel wool, we are sharing an array of substitutes!
Substitute For Steel Wool
- Non-Woven Abrasive Pads
The non-woven abrasive pads are perfect for people who want a convenient cleaning product. These pads are usually available in full size, so you can cut them into the desired size and clean the dishes. The best thing about non-woven abrasive pads is that they don’t clog, which promises easier cleaning. In addition to dishwashing, these pads are perfect for removing rust and polishing metal surfaces. They usually have synthetic webbing, promising durability.
The abrasive pads are reusable as you can wash them. What we love about abrasive pads is that they can be used with cleaning solvents as well as water.
- Wood Pulp Sponges
The wood pulp sponges have a similar appearance and feel as the regular sponges, but as the name suggests, they are made from wood pulp. This means that once you are done cleaning with these sponges, you can put them in the compost bin as they break down into natural byproducts, promising no harm to the environment. These sponges are available at online stores and are incredibly affordable. The wood pulp material ensures zero damage to the pots.
- Coconut Fiber Sponge
This is another option you can use if you are looking for a steel wool substitute. It’s a great option to wash the dishes as the fibers of this sponge are antimicrobial. In fact, many experts think that its fibers are perfect for killing the bacteria on the dishes, and you don’t even have to use soap. In fact, once you have used the coconut fiber sponge, you can rinse the fibers and put them in the garden as mulch. In addition to a sponge, coconut fiber is also used to make scrubbers.
- Tawashis
Tawashis is basically a Japanese word used to describe scrubbing brushes. The traditional brushes are made from palm fibers that are collected from hemp or coconut – these fibers are stuck together with the help of a metal wire. These brushes are readily available at online stores and some of them also have a metal hook, so you can hang them over your kitchen sink to dry. In addition, some are designed with a wooden handle for easier use. All in all, once you are done using the brush, you can take out the wire and put the fibers in the compost bin.
- Loofah
Loofah is one of the most used cleaning products and they basically look like sponges. These have a fibrous and firm texture, which makes it easier to clean the pots and pans. In particular, the loofah is plant-based, compostable, and natural. In addition, when you put them under water, they become squishy and soft, which makes them suitable for cleaning. The loofahs are easily available in the cleaning aisle of grocery stores.
- Wood Brush
If you don’t like getting your hands dirty by using steel wool, you can opt for wood brushes. The wood brushes are designed with bristles on the wooden handles (some brushes are also available with stainless steel handles and plastic bristles). On the other hand, if you opt for an eco-friendly wood brush, the bristles are made from union, palm, or coconut fibers. These wood brushes are suitable to be used for over six months but make sure you disinfect them every week.
- Swedish Dishcloth
These clothes are made from cellulose or wood fibers and cotton. These dishcloths are extremely absorbent and are perfect for people who are looking for an eco-friendly alternative to steel wool. In addition, they are compostable, which means you can throw them in the compost bin once they start tearing. Also, you won’t have an issue finding it in grocery stores or online!