Tuesday, April 5, 2016

Halacha Yomis - Kashering, towels and tablecloths OU Kosher Halacha Yomis This column is dedicated in memory of: Rav Chaim Yisroel ben Reb Dov HaLevy Belsky, zt'l Senior OU Kosher Halachic Consultant (1987-2016)


Q. Can I kasher my tablecloths and dishtowels for Pesach? A. Magen Avrohom (O.C. 442:19) writes that a tablecloth can be kashered for Pesach if it undergoes a thorough washing with hot water and soap and is beaten. Igros Moshe (Orach Chaim IV:106) writes that today’s home washing machines, when run through a hot cycle with detergent and agitation, satisfy all these requirements. Rav Belsky, zt”l held that towels made from polyester and other synthetic materials can be kashered in this manner. However, one must inspect the cloth or towel thoroughly to make sure that no chametz remains. It is therefore, better to buy new towels for Pesach, and only use washed tablecloths if they are covered with plastic.

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