The 7.75-by-6.75-inch clothes are stiff when dry but become flexible and soft as soon as they’re damp. The all-natural, biodegradable material is incredibly absorbent, capable of holding 15 times its own weight in liquid, and is lint-free to prevent streaks. What’s more, they’re a breeze to clean. Just toss in the dishwasher or in the washing machine and they’ll be good as new again. “They are AMAZING,” one user wrote. “They are far more absorbent than paper towels, they don’t hold smells or stains like sponges, and they are much stronger than paper towels. I put these in all of my family and friends’ Christmas stockings because every kitchen needs these.” Another added, “I use them in the kitchen for general dish washing, in the bathroom to wipe down the counters every day, and in the shower to wipe it down to prevent soap scum from building up between deep cleanings. They are thin but durable so they dry quickly without any musty smell.” Dii Swedish Dishcloths come in a pack of three and cost around $15. Choose from a dozen different designs, including cats, chickens, and lemons for an environmentally friendly upgrade to spring cleaning.

DII Swedish Dishcloths

To buy: $15 (originally $16); amazon.com