Wash cloth crochet patterns build a small square or rectangle, usually around 8 to 9 inches, in 100 percent cotton so the finished cloth holds up to daily use on skin rather than dishes. I have made dozens of these over the years, and a plain moss stitch version takes about 45 minutes once single and double crochet feel comfortable. This project suits beginners, since the shaping is just a flat square with no increases or decreases needed.
Materials Needed
- Yarn: 50 to 70 grams of 100 percent cotton, worsted weight, since cotton is gentle on skin and holds up to frequent washing better than acrylic
- Hook: 4.5mm to 5.0mm, slightly smaller than the yarn label suggests for a denser, more durable fabric
- Yarn needle for weaving in ends
I always reach for cotton over acrylic for anything that touches skin directly, since cotton absorbs water and rinses cleaner than synthetic fiber.
Pattern Instructions
Chain 30 to start a standard 8 inch wide cloth.
Row 1: single crochet in the second chain from the hook and each chain across. Rows 2 through 24: chain 1, turn, then alternate single crochet and chain 1 across the row, skipping one stitch under each chain space, to build the moss stitch texture. Continue until the piece measures roughly 8 inches tall, then fasten off and weave in ends.
I count my rows every 5 or so to confirm the cloth is staying square rather than tapering, since moss stitch can subtly widen if tension loosens partway through.
Variations
- Primrose stitch: a slightly more textured option using front post double crochet clusters, which gives more scrubbing texture for dish use specifically
- Solid single crochet: the simplest, flattest option, best for a gentle face cloth rather than dish scrubbing
- Striped color blocking: switching colors every 6 rows for a decorative option that still uses the same basic moss stitch structure
Frequently asked questions
What yarn is best for wash cloths, cotton or acrylic?
Cotton is the better choice, since it absorbs water well and rinses cleanly, unlike acrylic which tends to repel water and stay damp longer. I use 100 percent cotton for every wash cloth I make.
How much yarn does one wash cloth use?
Between 50 and 70 grams of worsted cotton for a standard 8 inch square. I usually get 2 to 3 cloths from a single 100 gram skein.
Which stitch pattern is best for exfoliating?
Primrose stitch gives the most texture for gentle exfoliation, since the front post clusters create raised bumps. I use plain moss stitch instead for a softer face cloth.
Make a matching set
A set of 3 or 4 cloths in coordinating colors makes an easy handmade gift. Check our beginner projects page next for other quick makes using the same cotton yarn.
See more quick projects