The most effective way to clean kitchen napkins, the oil dregs are gone, the musty smell is gone

illustration photo: Gemini AI

Brilio.net – Often we take a napkin or kitchen towel for granted. In fact, its function is very vital for keeping hands, tables clean, and drying eating utensils. Damp napkins are a soft nest for bacteria. If left dirty, instead of cleaning, napkins can actually become a source of cross-contamination in the kitchen.

The problem is, napkins are very easily stained with oil, leftover sauce and a strong musty odor. Many people immediately rely on citron (citric acid) to whiten them again. However, there is actually a more practical way and it only requires ingredients that are definitely already available in your laundry rack.

The Secret to Shiny Napkins Without Citrus

A TikTok user with the account @putraapibirutv shared a clever trick to solve this problem. Instead of using special chemicals, it just relies on a combination of dish soap and detergent. This formula is very effective because dishwashing soap is specifically designed to remove grease, while detergent works to clean fabric fibers deeply.

Steps for washing napkins to ensure maximum cleanliness

Follow these simple steps for satisfactory results, quoted by BrilioFood from TikTok @putraapibirutv, Sunday (22/2/2026).

1. Prepare Cleaning Solution: Prepare a container or bucket, then pour hot water that has just boiled. Add enough dish soap and detergent, then stir until evenly mixed.

photo: TikTok/@putraapibirutv.mans

2. Soaking Process: Put a dirty, smelly kitchen towel into the hot water. Make sure all parts are completely submerged. Let the napkin soak for a few moments until the water temperature drops. This hot water functions to help the soap work so that oil stains come off more quickly.

photo: TikTok/@putraapibirutv.mans

3. Brushing and Rinsing: Once the water is warm or cold, lift the napkin and brush the area affected by the stubborn stain. Rub until the dull color disappears. Finally, rinse with clean running water until the foam and dirt are completely removed.

photo: TikTok/@putraapibirutv.mans

4. Drying: Dry the napkin in the sun until completely dry. Sunlight also helps kill any remaining bacteria that may still be attached.

photo: TikTok/@putraapibirutv.mans

The result? Kitchen napkins not only look brighter, but are also free from annoying musty odors.

Kitchen Napkin Cleaning FAQ

1. Why do you have to use boiling hot water?

Hot water helps open fabric fibers and soften dried grease or oil stains, so detergent and dish soap can work more effectively.

2. Are all types of cloth napkins safe to wash this way?

Generally cotton or microfiber kitchen napkins are safe. However, make sure to check the care label if the napkin has special materials that are sensitive to high temperatures.

3. What is the ideal soaking time?

At least 15–30 minutes or until the soaking water has cooled so that the cleaning formula has enough time to break down dirt molecules.

4. Can I add laundry bleach?

It’s fine for clean white napkins, but the combination of dish soap and detergent is actually strong enough to remove stains without damaging the fabric fibers as quickly as bleach.

5. How often should kitchen napkins be washed?

To maintain hygiene, it is recommended to change and wash napkins every 1–2 days, especially if the kitchen is actively used for cooking oily food.

(brl/tin)