The Genius Swiffer Mop Pad Substitute That's Hiding In Your Closet

Since making their debut back in 2001, Swiffer Sweepers have been a common go-to way for homeowners to keep their floors clean. The genius mop alternative makes housework so easy, it's almost fun. But what happens when you run out of Swiffer pad refills halfway through cleaning? There's a stand-in hiding in your closet that's almost as genius as the Swiffer itself: your fuzzy socks. Yup, you read that right. According to TikToker @athomewithshannon, stretching a fuzzy sock over your mop head can do the job just as well as actual Swiffer pads. When you're finished cleaning your floors, simply toss them in the laundry.

Although this does beg the question: Why bother buying Swiffer refills when you can save money and create less waste? Instead of throwing away several disposable pads each month, you can reuse the same fuzzy socks over and over. If you've got socks with missing mates or ones with holes, this budget-friendly Swiffer hack becomes even better, because now you're also upcycling something that can no longer be used.

Not all socks are created equal for this hack. Basically, the fluffier, the better. Look for microfiber or thick chenille socks, since their fibers grab dust and dirt easily. Adult-size socks will usually fit a standard Swiffer head best, but a stretchy kids' sock will work too, so long as it covers the whole surface. Slip the sock over the mop head like a fitted sheet on a mattress, making sure the toe and heel wrap around the edges so it stays snug while you clean. If the cuff is too tight, you can always snip a small slit so it stretches more. As for how often you need to swap the socks out, take the same approach as you would for the disposable pads. A common Swiffer mistake is replacing the pads too soon, but for light cleaning, you can use the same sock a few times before washing; for bigger messes, swap it out after each use. 

When it's time to wash, just toss the sock in with your regular laundry. It's worth noting, however, that not everyone thinks it's fine to do this. Some commenters on @athomewithshannon's post seemed to think the lint it picks up might clog the washing machine. The TikTok creator also suggests using socks with grippers, but doesn't say why. Another viewer rightly pointed out that it could hinder the sweeping process and suggested turning the sock inside out if you're using the same type.

Substituting disposable Swiffer mop pads with upcycled fuzzy socks is already a win, but why stop there? You can easily and cheaply DIY a stack of reusable dust mop pads with a few simple ingredients you likely already have on hand, according to a video from @buzzfeedtastyhome. Simply fill a medium plastic bowl with 4 cups of water and 2 cups of white vinegar, and add 10 to 15 drops of whatever essential oil makes you the happiest. Give it a quick stir, then drop in your fuzzy socks and swish them around until they're nice and soaked. Pull them out one by one, press out the extra liquid so they're still a little damp, and pop them into a glass jar with a snug lid. Seal it up — and you're all set.

Next time you need to clean your kitchen floor, all you need to do is add a pre-soaked fuzzy sock to your mop head and get to work. When you're done, remove the sock and toss it in the washing machine. Pro tip: To avoid running out, get in the habit of making up a new batch of socks when you're down to the last one in the jar. (Future you will appreciate the gesture.) Of course, you will need to vacuum the floor before using the Swiffer to pick up dust, pet hair, and anything else that may have been tracked or blown in from outside. It'll make cleaning a lot more efficient.