Cheesecloth is a light weight, thin, gauze material, which is loosely woven and made of 100% cotton. It was traditionally use to make cheese, strain liquids, or retain solids out of food items, but nowadays you see it being used for several other purposes. Cheesecloth comes in a variety of forms. There are different grades with respect to how many threads there are per inch in each direction, and each grade has its own unique use. Learn more...
There are two types of Cheesecloth:
BLEACHED & UNBLEACHED: Bleached cheesecloth is chlorine-free and does not contain the natural cotton oil from the fibers as a result of the bleaching. Unbleached cheesecloths are natural ones used with superior quality cotton and contain no toxic chemicals. Unbleached cheesecloth can withstand high temperatures and is also biodegradable. Both bleached and unbleached cheesecloth come in several different grades.
What are the different grades of cheesecloth?
The lower the grade, the lighter it is, with bigger gaps. As the grade number increases, the cloth becomes tighter with smaller gaps. Different grade of cheesecloth are used for different purposes. Smaller grades with open weaves would be thinner and used for objects that require a good flow of air and water. Higher grades with finer weaves are more durable and used with things that would demand more strength.
Grade #10:
The thinnest cheesecloth with 20x12 threads pre square inch. Grade #10 cheesecloth is use with items that require good air/water flow.
Grade #40:
Grade #40 has 24x20 threads per square inch. It's not as airy as a grade #10, but not as tight as a grade #90. It's more durable than a grade #10 and is used for cooking, straining, faux painting and even medical bandages.
Grade #50:
Grade #50 has 28x24 threads per square inch. Again, as the grade level increases, the durability increases as well. This is another medium-grade cheesecloth that is used for polishing, straining, wiping, etc.
Grade #60:
Grade #60 is a higher grade made of 32x28 threads per square inch. This grade of cheesecloth is used for testing regulations for potential fire hazards.
Grade #90:
This is the toughest cheesecloth available with the finest weave at 44x36 threads per square inch. Grade #90 is tough and the most durable, making it washable and reusable, unlike the lower grades. This grade of cheesecloth is used a lot in apparel and home decor.
Call your Mednik sales rep to help determine your needs.