What Is Scrubby Yarn? Uses, Types, and Beginner Tips

By Janice Jones, Certified Knitting and Crochet Instructor (CYC), Updated January 1, 2026

Scrubby yarn is a textured novelty yarn designed for cleaning tasks such as washing dishes, scrubbing countertops, or making reusable scrub pads. Unlike standard yarns used for garments or blankets, scrubby yarn has a rough, bumpy surface that helps remove stuck-on food and grime without the need for sponges or disposable scrubbers.

Scrubby yarn is most commonly used in dish scrubbies, washcloths, pot scrubbers, and cleaning pads, and it can be worked with either knitting needles or crochet hooks.

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What Is Scrubby Yarn Made Of?

Most scrubby yarns are made from synthetic fibers, usually:

  • Polyester
  • Nylon
  • Polypropylene

These fibers provide stiffness and abrasion resistance, the exact qualities needed for cleaning.

Unlike cotton or wool, scrubby yarn:

  • Does not absorb much water
  • Does not soften significantly with washing
  • Is highly durable

Popular Types of Scrubby Yarn

Here are some of the most widely used scrubby yarns:

Each behaves differently in knitting and crochet. 

Can You Knit With Scrubby Yarn?

Yes, but knitting with scrubby yarn feels very different from regular yarn.

What to Expect when knitting with scrubby yarn: 

  • Stitches are harder to see
  • Yarn has little stretch
  • Tension control matters more
  • Stitches are harder to make

Best Knitting Projects:

  • Knit dish scrubbies
  • Textured dishcloths
  • Small scrub pads

Pro Tip: Simple stitch patterns (garter stitch, ribbing, seed stitch) work best.

Can You Crochet With Scrubby Yarn?

Crochet is often easier with scrubby yarn than knitting because:

  • You work one stitch at a time
  • Stitches are easier to control
  • Dense fabrics form naturally
  • You can use a larger hook without any issues.

Best Crochet Projects:

  • Round dish scrubbies
  • Pot scrubbers
  • Cleaning pads

What Needle or Hook Size Should You Use?

There’s no single “right” size, but here are safe starting points: For both knitting and crochet, choose a needle or hook slightly larger than your typical size.

Knitting:

  • US 8–10 (5.0–6.0mm)

Crochet:

  • H–J hook (5–6 mm)

Tighter stitches = better scrubbing power, but more challenging to knit or crochet.

Is Scrubby Yarn Safe for Non-Stick Pans?

Use caution.  It is scratchy.

Scrubby yarn can scratch:

  • Non-stick coatings
  • Delicate cookware
  • Glass surfaces

It’s best used for:
✔ Stainless steel 
✔ Cast iron
✔ Ceramic (test first)

*I use the washcloths I crocheted with scrubby yarn to scrub my dogs' stainless steel food and water bowls, and they work exceptionally well.

How Do You Wash Scrubby Yarn Projects?

Most scrubby yarn projects are:

  • Machine washable
  • Quick drying
  • Resistant to mildew
  • They often do not lie flat after washing 

Always check the yarn label, but in general:

  • Warm water is safe
  • Air dry or tumble low
  • Do not expect the project to lie flat when you take it out of the dryer.

Best Projects to Make With Scrubby Yarn

  • Dish scrubbies
  • Pot scrubbers
  • Reusable cleaning pads
  • Shower scrub mitts (not for sensitive skin)
  • Jump to my dishcloth crochet pattern using scrubby yarn.

Common Problems With Scrubby Yarn (and Solutions)

Problem: Hard to see stitches with both knit and crochet

  • Use stitch markers and count rows
  • Choose a simple stitch pattern

Problem: Fabric feels too stiff with both knit and crochet

  • Use a larger hook or needle
  • Slow down when knitting and crocheting

Problem: Hands get tired and scratched

  • Working with scrubby yarn is hard on your hands
  • Take breaks; scrubby yarn has no give
  • Use hand cream if this yarn scratches your hands.

Frequently Asked Questions About Scrubby Yarn

Is scrubby yarn better than a sponge?

Scrubby yarn scrubbies are reusable, washable, and more eco-friendly than disposable sponges.  Scrubby yarn dishcloths, however, are more abrasive than soft sponges, making comparisons difficult.

Does scrubby yarn soften over time?

No, it is designed to stay firm even after repeated washing.  Products made with scrubby yarn will remain just as abrasive after many washings.

Can beginners use scrubby yarn?

Yes, but it’s easier after learning basic tension control.  It is also a yarn that lends itself to simple stitches such as single or half-double crochet, or to knitted garter and seed stitch.

Final Thoughts

Scrubby yarn is a purpose-built cleaning yarn that excels where regular yarns fail. Whether you knit or crochet, understanding how scrubby yarn behaves, its texture, stiffness, and durability, helps you choose the right patterns and tools for long-lasting, reusable cleaning projects.

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