tip for cleaning foam applicator pads

[1 FMF]

I typically throw the foam pads away after 1-2 uses where they start to get dirty or wax starts to dry in them. At $1-2 each, no big deal. But today I tried using a pickle jar- 20 oz. claussen bread & butter pickles to be exact. It was empty and sitting on the counter, had not made it to recycle yet. The foam applicator fit in it nicely, a little dishsoap and hot water, cap back on and shake, repeat 5 or so times with soap and 5 without soap to rinse, and it comes out like new.
They say to throw the foam pads in the washing machine, but I always imagined they would just float on top. This way, it takes 3 minutes, very little water, and they come out great.
I think the larger jar of pickles might work better though, a little more room to shake the pad around. So if you ever needed a reason to buy pickles, here it is!

 

[SWS]

Thanks 1FMF, I was just encountering this problem and there you have a solution!

 

[Scooby]

For YEARS I have always soaked my applicators, pads, and towels in BLUE DAWN dish soap with HOT water for a few hours. This helps break up the wax and then I throw them in the washer on delicate with TIDE (no fabric softener). The washing machine is about the only way I have found that will get rid of any small debris that will cause scratches.

 

[benjamming]

I also put them in the washing machine on delicate cycle and liquid detergent with my other cleaning towels. Every time I have looked they aren't "floaters".

 

[Cadude]

Dollar General Stores sell a terry cloth round application pad that is great value at only 2 for $1.00.

 

[penzdude]

i have had pretty good results saturating the pads with the simple green spray, and squeezing them out. then i rinse them under the garden faucet until all clear. hope this helps a little.

 

[tweeker43]

i've never had any trouble getting them clean in the washing machine. normally warm/cold cycle.

yeah, no fabric softener.