Quick and Simple Crochet Washcloth – Free Pattern

folded crochet washcloth tied with string and soap

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My favorite way to unwind is by crocheting washcloths or dishcloths—they’re quick and satisfying. This simple crochet washcloth pattern is perfect for trying out a new stitch while creating something both practical and beautiful!

Using an easy textured stitch, this project is quick, relaxing, and ideal for unwinding while you crochet. It’s a thoughtful gift idea, especially when paired with a lovely bar of soap.

Perfect for any skill level, this crochet washcloth pattern uses basic stitches to create a soft, thick fabric. For a finishing touch, you can add a delicate lacy border to make it even more special.

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How to get the Pattern for the Crochet Washcloth

  • Free Crochet Pattern: Scroll down this blog post for the free pattern instructions
  • Printable PDF: Ad-free PDF pattern including all details. This helps me continue to provide free patterns. Thank you for your support! – Purchase on Ravelry and on Etsy

Yarn for a Crochet Washcloth and Dishcloth

For my washcloths, I chose DK weight organic cotton yarn with a 4mm crochet hook. Cotton is an excellent choice for crochet washcloths and crochet dishcloths because it’s durable, holds its shape well, and is easy to clean.

You could also use aran or worsted weight cotton yarn, which works beautifully with a 5mm hook. This is a great project for using up leftover cotton yarn in your stash!

Keep in mind that thicker yarn will create a larger washcloth. The pattern includes the stitch multiple, so you can easily adjust the size to suit your needs.

For the best results, match DK weight yarn with a 4mm hook and worsted weight yarn with a 5mm hook.

crochet dishcloths with a lace border

More Crochet Washcloth and Crochet Dishcloth Patterns

How to Crochet a Simple Washcloth

This easy crochet washcloth pattern features an easy textured stitch with a pretty lace border for a delicate finish. Made with DK weight cotton yarn, it’s perfect for practical use or gifting. A quick and satisfying project!

Materials Needed

  • Stylecraft Naturals Organic Cotton – 100% organic cotton/115yds/105m/50g
  • 1 ball (50g) will make a washcloth
  • Small amount of a contrast color for the border
  • Yarn needle

You can use any dk weight cotton yarn for this pattern.

Measurements

9 x 9 in [23 x 23 cm]

Abbreviations

US Crochet terms

  • Beg    beginning
  • Sc      single crochet
  • Hdc    half double crochet
  • Dc      double crochet
  • Ch      chain
  • St       stitch
  • Rep    repeat
  • MC     main color

Notes 

  • The pattern is written in US crochet terms
  • Stitch multiple is 3
  • Gauge is not important for this project
  • The main body of the washcloth is worked in rows and a border is worked around the edges of the main piece
  • Ch 2 at beginning of a row counts as 1 sc and ch-1
  • Stitch counts are in italics at the end of a row
crochet washcloths and a bar of soap

Crochet Washcloth Pattern

Using MC and 4mm hook, chain 42

Row 1: (right side) [1 hdc, 1 dc] in 3rd ch from hook, skip 2 chs, * [1 sc, 1 hdc, 1 dc] in next ch, skip 2 chs; rep from * across, ending with 1 sc in last ch, turn – 14 sc, 13 hdc, 13 dc

Row 2: Ch 2 (counts as 1 sc and ch-1 throughout), [1 hdc, 1 dc] in 1st st, skip 2 sts, * [1 sc, 1 hdc, 1 dc] in next st (sc from previous row), skip 2 sts; rep from * across, ending with 1 sc in last ch-2 sp, turn – 14 sc, 13 hdc, 13 dc

Rows 3 – 30: Ch 2, [1 hdc, 1 dc] in 1st st, skip 2 sts, * [1 sc, 1 hdc, 1 dc] in next st (sc from previous row), skip 2 sts; rep from * across, ending with 1 sc in last ch-2 sp, turn – 14 sc, 13 hdc, 13 dc

Fasten off yarn and weave in threads.

Border

With right side facing and using a contrast color, join with a sl st into first sc (last sc worked on final row),

Round 1:

Top: * Ch 4, skip 2 sts, sl st in next sc; rep from * across, working last sl st in corner ch-2 sp. Turn to work down first side.

Side 1: * Ch 4, skip next row, sl st in the side of next row; rep from * to next corner, working last sl st in sc in corner.

Bottom Row (foundation row): * Ch 4, skip 2 chs, sl st in next sc; rep from * across, working last sl st in beg ch-2.

Side 2: * Ch 4, skip next row, sl st in the side of next row; rep from * to next corner, working last sl st in same sp as beg sl st.

Fasten of yarn and weave in threads.

Finishing your Washcloth

Blocking your washcloth will make a difference to the finished project. Pin in place, spray with water and leave to dry. Your washcloth will look neat and polished!

PIN FOR LATER

F.A.Q. About Crochet Washcloths and Dishcloths

What is the best yarn to use for a crochet washcloth? 

Cotton yarn is preferred for its durability and ease of care. Worsted-weight cotton yarn is the most popular choice.

How do I care for my crochet washcloth? 

Wash in cold or warm water and tumble dry on low, or lay flat to air dry. 

Can I alter the size of the washcloth?

Yes, the pattern can be adjusted by changing the number of starting chains. The stitch pattern multiple is given in Notes.

Is there a difference between crochet washcloths and crochet dishcloths?

They can both can be made with the same patterns. The yarn choice may vary depending on their intended use, with some preferring softer yarns for washcloths and more durable yarns for dishcloths.

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