10 ways to use muslin face cloths

Muslin cloths are an essential part of every skincare routine. They help you remove daily dirt, SPF, make-up and skincare products in a gentle way.

So what makes them so effective?

• They have a gentle exfoliating action that leaves skin super clean and smooth.
• They help to remove any lasting residues of dirt or make-up without scratching the skin.
• They are reusable and are made from 100% unbleached organic cotton. This makes them far more environmentally-friendly than disposable cotton wool or even – gasp – face wipes. Just stick them in the washing machine on a cold wash.
• Their open weave allows them to dry quickly and prevents the growth of bacteria. Regular flannels hold water for longer and can be a breeding ground for the pests.

An all-natural lightweight fabric, muslin cloths are the more sustainable choice. And while it’s easy to amass a number of old muslin cloths over the years, there’s always more life in them for jobs outside of your daily cleansing regime.

So if your muslin cloths are starting to pile up, or if you simply want to make the most of your new ones, here are our pointers on how to use them again and again…

How to use a muslin cloth for your face

Everyday gentle exfoliator

Using a muslin cloth as part of your cleansing routine is a great way to lift away dead skin cells and impurities that have built up throughout the day. Simply remove your cleanser with circular movements using your muslin cloth for gentle exfoliation.

This enhanced cleanse is great for both brightening skin on the dull, dry side, and helping to stop blackheads forming for oilier and combination complexions.

Pout perfector

Chapped lips are a common problem throughout the year and they can look particularly uncomfortable once you layer lipstick on top.

So before applying your lippie, use a damp muslin cloth to gently buff lips in a circular motion. Follow with an organic lip balm for softer, smoother lips.

Facial steamer

Soak your muslin cloth in warm (not too hot) water, wring out, then lie down and place the cloth over your face for 1-2 minutes.

You can do this on top of a face mask to help skin absorb all the nourishing actives, or simply apply to freshly cleansed skin for a home spa experience.

How use a muslin cloth for your body

Eczema-busting body exfoliator

This tip came from a customer who started using a cloth to gently exfoliate her body in the shower.

It’s especially good for eczema or keratosis pilaris sufferers who find many body brushes too rough or redness-inducing. Using circular movements, use your muslin cloth as an exfoliating mitt in the bath or shower. Smoothing away patches of rough skin will really improve the absorption of your body cream or oil afterwards too.

Ingrown hair remover 

Exfoliating areas prone to ingrown hairs with a muslin cloth really helps to prevent them. Gently buffing existing bumps can encourage the hairs underneath to come to the surface.

A really effective prevention method – and much more pleasant than having to tweezer!

How use a muslin cloth for your baby

Quick and easy bib

Of course, muslin cloths can be used for more than just your skincare needs – and their versatility knows no bounds when it comes to little ones. So if you’re a new mum, you may find your old muslin cloths are about to become your new must-have.

Mealtimes can get messy when babies are around, but muslins make for a handy mopper-upper for dribbles and spills. Use a clean muslin cloth as a throw-on bib or simply use it to gently mop up milk or clean up sick when winding.

Breathable baby swaddle

Muslin cloths are made with organic cotton, making them a lightweight and breathable fabric that’s ideal for keeping your bundle of joy wrapped up – without causing them to overheat.

Use your muslin cloth as a swaddle to keep them safe and cosy as they sleep (and hopefully you’ll get some shut-eye at the same time).

How to use your muslin cloth for cooking & cleaning

Pre-wash stain remover

If your cloths are on the older side and have lost their exfoliating edge, there are still ways you can use them around the house. This is one our founder Sarah discovered when mopping up after her baby son!

Muslin cloths have just the right amount of weave to remove the bulk of a stain before it goes in the wash. Just rub the affected area with a little water. Who needs Vanish, eh?!

Nut milk strainer

Muslin cloths can be handy in the kitchen for a variety of straining uses. Just make sure to throw them in the washing machine first to remove any lingering cleanser or exfoliator first! We love making our own almond milk and old muslin cloths are so brilliant for straining out the nut grains – just cut off one seam so you have a pocket… et voila.

Shoe shiner

Old cloths are great for buffing shoes, particularly if they’re made from delicate fabrics like suede that you wouldn’t want to use a traditional shoe brush on. Who knew?