Crocheting your own Scouring Pads is both practical and eco-friendly, creating a reusable kitchen and bathroom cleaning tool. Unlike disposable scouring pads, crocheted scouring pads can be customized in size, texture, and color, and they're washable and durable.

Materials You’ll Need

• Yarn Choices:

• Nylon Yarn: Durable, quick-drying, and great for scrubbing.

• Cotton Yarn: Softer, more absorbent, suitable for light scrubbing.

• Tulle or Mesh Strips: Provide extra abrasive texture.

• Crochet Hook: Size H (5 mm) or I (5.5 mm) works well.

• Scissors: For trimming yarn.

• Yarn Needle: To weave in ends.

Basic Crochet Stitches to Know

• Chain Stitch (ch) – the foundation of most crochet projects.

• Single Crochet (sc) – tight stitch for durability.

• Half Double Crochet (hdc) – slightly taller stitch, good for thicker pads.

• Slip Stitch (sl st) – for joining rounds and finishing edges.

Step-by-Step: Crocheting a Simple Round Scouring Pad

Step 1: Foundation

• Make a magic ring (or chain 4 and join into a circle).

Step 2: Round 1

• Chain 1, then work 8–10 single crochets (sc) into the ring.

• Join with a slip stitch.

Step 3: Round 2

• Chain 1, work 2 sc in each stitch around (16–20 stitches total).

• Join with a slip stitch.

Step 4: Round 3

• Chain 1, alternate 1 sc in next stitch, 2 sc in next stitch around.

• This increases the circle size evenly.

Step 5: Continue Rounds

• Keep increasing evenly until the pad reaches your desired size (about 3–4 inches in diameter).

Step 6: Finishing

• Fasten off yarn and weave in ends with a yarn needle.

• For extra thickness, crochet two circles and stitch them together.

Variations

1. Square Scouring Pad

• Chain 15–20 stitches, work rows of single crochet until a square forms.

• Double-layered squares add durability.

2. Textured Pad

• Use half double crochet (hdc) or puff stitches for extra scrubbing power.

3. Two-Tone Pad

• Combine cotton yarn on one side and nylon or tulle on the other for both absorbency and scrubbing ability.

Care and Maintenance

• Wash Regularly: Toss in the dishwasher (top rack) or washing machine.

• Air Dry: Prevents mildew and extends lifespan.

• Replace When Worn: Depending on use, pads last weeks to months.

Conclusion

Crocheting scouring pads is a simple, sustainable DIY project that saves money and reduces waste. With the right yarn and a few basic stitches, you can create durable pads that are both functional and customizable. Whether you prefer round, square, or textured versions, homemade scouring pads offer an eco-friendly alternative to disposable kitchen Sponges.