Today, we have a special blog post for our audience. We’re going to do a list of facts pertaining to some of the most popular cleaning supplies in the world. While this information may not help you get an A on an English essay, or land you the dream job you always wanted, these tidbits may become valuable during a date, family function, or any type of social setting. Here are some fun facts about some of the most popular cleaning supplies, enjoy!

The Mop

• Historians estimate that the mop was introduced in England in 1496, though American inventor Jacob Howe in 1837 owns the patent for the mop.
• A mop is only considered a mop if there is a hand-attachment, therefore Scoobas, while they perform the same function as a traditional mop, are not eligible for mop status.
• Procter and Gamble is responsible for the majority of mops sold in North America

Paper Towels

• The paper towel was invented in 1931 by the Scott Paper Company.
• In 2014, famous designer Marc Jacobs designed a raincoat made up entirely of paper towels.
• The average American uses 53 lbs of paper towels per year.

The Broom

• The broom was invented in 1797 by American farmer Levi Dickenson, who made the product for his wife.
• The Canadian Metis people have a longstanding tradition of showcasing their dancing skills by showing their quick footwork and reflexes in a fashion sometimes called “Broom Dancing.”
• The Broom is the main symbol for two separate political parties, one located in Nigeria and one political party in India.

Bleach

• Bleach was invented by Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele in the 18th century. He also discovered chlorine.
• Not only is bleach used as a cleaning product, however scientific research shows that bleach is one of the best products to kill weeds in the lawn or garden.
• Bleach also works as a pesticide that could remove just about any mosquito problem in the backyard!

The Sponge

• The sponge was invented by researchers in the 1940s. Prior to this time, divers would catch sea sponges and sell them as cleaning supplies.
• Microwaving a wet sponge for two minutes will destroy 99% of bacteria and germs on the sponge.
• Most sponges are made from an organic compound called cellulose.