Is it Safe to Use Wash Cloths? Do They Harbor Bacteria?

We’ve all heard from time to time about wash cloths (or facial sponges) being a breeding ground for bacteria. While there is some truth to this, it all depends on how well the wash cloth was able to dry after use.

-Don’t leave your wet wash cloth crumpled up in a ball and expect it to dry.

-Never leave it to dry in the shower. The shower remains humid long after you’ve gotten out, so it won’t dry as quickly.

-Hang it over a towel.

-Replace with a fresh, new wash cloth after four uses…

Bottom line: Bacteria can’t live in a dry environment so you can re-use your wash cloth or facial sponges—as long as you let it properly air dry.

I personally prefer our professional-grade Facial Sponges which we sell for home use and are used in every Renée Rouleau facial at our skin care spas. They can be cleaned in your laundry and will feel extremely gentle on the skin.

Skin Care Tip: Always apply your cleanser directly to your skin using your fingertips. Massage in small circular motions, rinse well and wipe over the skin using facial sponges or a baby washcloth. Don’t apply the cleanser directly to the sponges or washcloths as you’ll waste too much product.

If you’re going to use wash cloths, I suggest using baby wash cloths as they are gentler on the skin.

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Information courtesy of www.ReneeRouleau.com, a website with skin care tips, products based on nine skin types and advice from skin care expert and celebrity esthetician, Renée Rouleau.