Halachos for Thursday, June 5, 2025

 

Introduction:

 

One of the 39 prohibited Melachos on Shabbos is “Melaben”. Melaben is literally translated as whitening or bleaching. It is also acceptably translated as laundering.

 

In preparing wool for use in the Mishkan, the sheep’s raw wool was whitened, thus doing that, or tasks that resemble it, such as laundering garments or removing stains from garments, would be transgressing a biblical prohibitions.

 

Furthermore, the Talmud (Zevachim 94b) teaches that submerging a garment in water on Shabbos, or applying water to a garment would also fall under this general prohibition. (Details of which we will see as we progress in this topic B’Ezras Hashem)

 

Another sub-category of this Melacha is Sechita, squeezing liquid out of a garment, which can also be a biblical transgression, as we shall discuss B’Ezras Hashem.



Many of the situations that we will be discussing are very common, and thus it’s very important for every Jew to familiarize him/herself with these Halachos, as they can easily be transgressed, Chas V’Shalom, sometimes on a weekly basis, if the parameters are not clearly understood.

 

1) One who launders a garment on Shabbos has transgressed a biblical prohibition.

 

2) This prohibition applies equally to washing the entire garment, as well as to laundering even just a small portion of the garment, such as removing a stain that developed on a small area of the garment.

 

Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh, June 6, 2025 Double Portion L'Kavod Shabbos Kodesh

 

Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh

 

1) The prohibition of laundering only applies to garments and other items made of soft material.

 

The prohibition of laundering does not apply to utensils or any other items constructed of hard materials. (See Mishna Berura Siman 302 S” K 41)

 

2) Thus, it is permitted to wash a table or other piece of furniture made of wood.

 

Even when doing so, it should not be done so thoroughly, the way it would be done on a weekday, as to not deem it an Uvda D’chol (a weekday chore) which is prohibited on Shabbos.

 

Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh

 

1) It is prohibited to launder leather items on Shabbos. (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 302:9)

 

If a stain developed on a leather garment, a leather tablecloth, a leather couch, or any other leather item, it may not be cleaned by using a brush, or even by rubbing the stain with one’s hands or doing any other action that will remove the stain. (See Biur Halacha Siman 302:9 Dibur Hamaschil Aval)

 

2) Even if the leather item in question is hard, it is still prohibited. (See Shulchan Aruch ibid.)

 

 

Halachos for Sunday, June 8, 2025

 

1) There is a discussion among the Poskim as to the status of nylon or plastic tablecloths, napkins and other items, if they are treated like cloth or not regarding the prohibition of laundering.

 

2) Practically, we are stringent, and avoid cleaning such items by rubbing them with water. (Regarding soaking them in water, without any rubbing, we will B’Ezras Hashem discuss that as we progress in this topic)

 

This stringency applies, as well, to the plastic or nylon coverings of chairs and other furniture.

 

 It also applies to faux leather items

 

Halachos for Monday, June 9, 2025

 

1) Rubber gloves that became soiled may not be washed and rubbed with water to clean them.

 

2) However, it is permissible to wear soiled gloves while washing dishes, even if while doing so the gloves may get rubbed and be cleaned of the dirt that is on them.

 

The reason this is permitted is that the intention here is to wash the dishes and not to clean the glove, and thus we do not deem this action as laundering.

 

Halachos for Tuesday, June 10, 2025

 

1)   A rubber nipple of a baby’s bottle or a baby’s pacifier may be cleaned with water on Shabbos.

 

2)  Some Poskim (including Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach and Rav Nisim Karelitz Zichronam L’vracha) allow it to be rubbed as well, and do not deem this an act of laundering.

 

Other Poskim (including Rav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv Zatzal) , however, are more stringent and only allow it to be placed under a stream of water to clean it, but do not allow rubbing it in the process.

 

Regarding the use of soap when washing rubber items a Rav should be consulted. (See Orchos Shabbos Perek 13 footnote 9 that one should not soak rubber in soap and scrub it to remove dirt embedded in it.)

 

 

Halachos for Wednesday, June 11, 2025

 

1) It is permissible to wash dishes on Shabbos, provided they may be needed again on that Shabbos. (See Mishna Berura Sian 323 S”K 26 and 27. See also Shu”t Shevet Halevi Vol. 5 Siman :3)

 

Watered down soap may also be used when washing these items, according to many Poskim (See Shmiras habbos K’Hilchasa Peek 12:24 footnote 69. See also Aruch Hashulchan Siman 326:11, Kaf Hachaim Siman 326:43. See also Shu”t Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 1 Siman 113 and Shu”t Az Nidberu Vol. 10 Siman 16)

 

These may also be rubbed with water to remove any visible dirt from its surface.

 

A sponge, steel wool or other absorbent cloths may not be used when washing dishes on Shabbos. (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 320:17)

 

Synthetic scrubbing pads constructed with widely spaced fibers that don’t trap water, as well as nylon brushes, as are available on the market as baby bottle brushes, may be used. (See Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasa perek 12:15. See also Shu”t Yabia Omer Vol. 4 Siman30;19 and Shu”t Be’er Moshe Vol. 1 Siman 43)

 

2) Plastic disposable cups, plates and other utensils may also be washed on Shabbos.

 

Halachos for Thursday, June 12, 2025

 

1) It is permissible to wash eyeglasses on Shabbos with water. It is also permissible to use watered down liquid soap.

 

After the eyeglasses are washed, they may be dried with a dry cloth. Care should be taken to avoid squeezing the water in the cloth, which would be a prohibition of Sechita.

 

Practically, the eyeglasses should be shaken off from the excess water after washing, before drying with the cloth, so that it is less likely to result in Sechita.

 

2) One should not, however, wet a cloth and then wash the eyeglasses with the wet cloth, as that is an issue of Sechita.

 

Also, special eyeglass spray, should ideally not be used.

 

(See Shu”t Be’er Moshe Vol. 6 Siman 62, Shu”t Az Nidberu Vol. 13 Siman 14 and Shu”t Rivevos Ephraim Vol. 3 Siman 210)

 

Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh, June 13, 2025 Double Portion L'Kavod Shabbos Kodesh

 

Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh

 

1) Hard contact lenses may be soaked in saline solution, or even in lens disinfecting solution on Shabbos.

 

It is also permissible to clean them by rubbing them slightly, as is the usual manner of cleaning them. They should not, however be rubbed too vigorously, as that may be deemed polishing, which is not permitted.

 

2) According to some Poskim (including Rav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv Zatzal) , soft contact lenses may not be soaked in lens disinfecting solution on Shabbos.

 

Other Poskim rule more leniently, especially for individuals who are not particular to soak their soft lenses in this type of solution every time they are removed.

 

All Poskim agree, however, that they may be soaked in saline solution, as this is done to keep the lenses from hardening, and not for cleaning.

 

(See Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasa Perek 15:83 and Ohr Hashabbos Vol. 17, page 5 and on. See also Orchos Shabbos Perek 13 footnote 64. For Halacha L’ma’aseh, each individual should consult their Rav.

 

Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh

 

1) It is permissible, if necessary, to wipe dust off of a piece of furniture on Shabbos, using a dry cloth.

 

However, one should not dust all the furniture in his home, or even one entire room on Shabbos, even if doing so with a dry cloth, as this is a weekday activity that is degrading to the honor of Shabbos. (Of course, if, for example, a pile of chairs or a bunch of tables, or the like, is needed for use on Shabbos and they are dusty, they may be dusted with a dry cloth to allow for their use, as this is not deemed a weekday activity)

 

2) A damp cloth may not be used to remove dust from furniture on Shabbos, as this is a concern of Sechita. (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 320:17 and Mishna Berura S”K 48)

 

It is prohibited to polish furniture, windows or other surfaces on Shabbos, using a liquid or spray polish or any other specialized polishing solution, even if done in such a way that there won’t be Sechita. (See Mishna Berura Siman 323 S”K 38)

 

Halachos for Sunday, June 15, 2025

 

1) It is permissible, according to most Poskim, to remove cobwebs or spider webs from furniture or from the wall on Shabbos.

 

It is best to do this with a broom, or other item, and not with your hands in a regular manner.

 

 (According to many Poskim it isn’t a concern of Muktzeh at all, as it is no different than sweeping the floor of other dirt on Shabbos, which is permitted. Some Poskim only allow it if it is repulsive, and some suggest doing it with a Shinui. See Shemiras Shabbos K’Hilchasa perek 23 footnote 34. See also Shu”t B’Tzel Hachachma Vol. 5 Siman 18, Mor U’ketzia Siman 328 and Kaf Hachaim Siman 328:270)

 

2) Of course, killing the spider in the process of removing the web is prohibited. (See Shulchan Aruch HaRav Siman 316:23 and Mishna Berura Siman 316 S”K 48 and Biur Halacha there dibur Hamaschil V’afilu)

 

[Kabalistically, it's important to rid a home of any cobwebs as soon as possible, as negative forces of the Sitra Achra dwell within these webs.It's especially important to check the home on Erev Shabbos for these webs, and remove them.]

 

Halachos for Monday, June 16, 2025

 

1) It is permitted to sweep a hard covered floor on Shabbos with a broom constructed of soft, flexible bristles. (See Mishna Berura Siman 337 S”K 12 and Biur Halacha Siman 337:2 dibur Hamaschil V’Yesh machmirim)

 

It is permitted to collect the dirt being swept in a dustpan as well, and it isn’t an issue of of Muktzeh. (See Sha’ar Hatziyun Siman 337:7 and Biur Halacha ibid. See also Orchos Shabbos Vol. 2 page 188)

 

2) It is prohibited to sweep earthen floors and carpeted floors inside a home, and it may also be prohibited to sweep driveways, sidewalks and other covered floors that are outdoors, especially if they are in close proximity to uncovered areas, such as grass or earthen surfaces.

 

Sweeping a Sukkah may also be an issue. A Rav should be consulted for a Psak Halacha. (See Orchos Shabbos Perek 18 footnotes 70 and 73 and Shemiras Shabbos K’hilchasa Perek 23 footnote 10. See also Chut Shani from Rav Nisim Karelitz Zatzal, Vol. 1 page 90)

 

Halachos for Tuesday, June 17, 2025

 

1) When one’s shoes become soiled with mud or grime on Shabbos, it may only be cleaned if certain criteria are met.

 

If the mud already dried, it may not be cleaned at all [by a Jew], as doing so will be an issue of Tochen, grinding. (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 302:7)

 

In certain situations, if it’s a real issue of Kavod Habriyos, it may be permitted to hint to an Aino-Yehudi to clean off the mud. (See Mishna Berura Siman 302 S” K 36 and Sha’ar Hatziyun Os 44)

 

2) If the mud is still wet, it is prohibited to submerge the shoe in water and rub it to get the mud off.

 

However, it is permissible to submerge the shoe in water or place it under a running stream of water, if it is leather, and it is not rubbed. (Unlike other materials, leather may be submerged in water, even though it may not be rubbed with water)



However, it is important when doing this to make sure the shoe laces or any other parts of the shoe or the stitching which are cloth material, are not submerged in water or placed under a stream of water together with the leather parts.

 

Halachos for Wednesday, June 18, 2025

1) If the mud on one’s shoe is still wet, it is permissible to scrape it with a knife or a scraper.

However, when doing this it should not be done with a lot of force, lest it be an issue of transgressing the Melacha of Memachk, smoothing.(See Mishna Berura Siman 302 S”K 26)

 

2) Shoe polish, even if it’s clear and colorless, may not be used on Shabbos, nor any other substance that colors or polishes the shoe. (See Mishna Berura Siman 327 S”K 12)

Even if it was applied before Shabbos, it may not be rubbed in with a brush or a cloth on Shabbos. (See Shemiras Shabbos K’Hilchasa Perek 15 footnote 130 and Perek 14 footnote 152)

Even if no polish , oil or other substance is used, shoes should not be shined with a brush or a cloth or with any other item on Shabbos.

 

Halachos for Thursday, June 19, 2025

 

1) If one’s leather shoes become dusty on Shabbos, they may be wiped off using the hands or a cloth, so long as it is done softly so it isn’t deemd polishing or shining the shoes.(See Aruch Hashulchan Siman 327:4)

 

It is also permitted to bang the dusty leather shoe on the ground so that the dust gets dispelled from the shoe.



2) Shoes constructed from cloth or suede may not be cleaned on Shabbos in any way, shape or form, as they are like articles of clothing, and do not have the leniencies of leather. (See Shemiras Shabbos K’Hilchasa Perek 15:38)

 

Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh, June 20, 2025 Double Portion L'Kavod Shabbos Kodesh

 

Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh

 

1) It is prohibited to sprinkle talc powder, baby powder, or other powder on a grease stain that developed on an article of clothing. (See Shemiras Shabbos K’Hilchasa perek 15:24)

 

2) If mud, vomit or the like needs to be cleaned up off one’s hand, or off the floor or another hard surface on Shabbos, it may not be done using a cloth or a towel or another item which when it is used in this manner on a weekday, it is washed soon thereafter. (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 302:11; we are concerned that it may be rinsed or washed on Shabbos, as is usually done with it after being used in this manner)

 

It is advisable to use disposable towels, [or Shmattes, rags, which are not usually washed after being used] to clean up such a mess.

 

Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh

 

1) An article of clothing that got soiled with grime, mud or the like, if it is still wet it may be removed using one’s hand, fingernail, a knife, a paper towel or a rag, provided that only the bulk of the staining item is removed, but a residue of the stain remains on the clothing. (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 302:7)

 

It is, however, prohibited to clean it to the point that no appearance of the stain remains embedded in the clothing. (See Biur Halacha ibid. dibur hamaschil D’havi where he rules stringently here, against the lenient ruling of the Taz)

 

Furthermore, it is prohibited to remove the wet grime from the clothing by rubbing two parts of the soiled article of clothing together, or via rubbing it with a towel.

 

Also, care must be taken, if the stain being removed is very wet, to not lead to the prohibition of Sechita, squeezing.

 

2) If the mud, grime, vomit or other stain is already dried, it is prohibited [for a Jew] to remove it at all, as doing so will be a prohibition of the Melacha of Tochen, grinding. (Shulchan Aruch ibid. See Mishna Berura S” K 36 regarding hinting to an Aino-Yehudi to do it)

 

 

 Halachos for Sunday, June 22, 2025

 

1) If food spilled onto an article of clothing it may be removed – even if it is already dried – using one’s hand, fingernail, a knife, a paper towel or a rag, provided that only the bulk of the staining item is removed, but a residue of the stain remains on the clothing. (See Shulchan Aruch Siman 302:7. Regarding why there is no concern of Tochen by food, the way there is by mud, see Orchos Shabbos Perek 13 footnte 30)

 

It is, however, prohibited to clean it to the point that no appearance of the stain remains embedded in the clothing. (See Biur Halacha Siman 302:1 dibur hamaschil V’yesh Omrim and Siman 302:7 dibur hamaschil D’havi)

 

Furthermore, it is prohibited to remove the food from the clothing by rubbing two parts of the soiled article of clothing together, or via rubbing it with a towel.

 

2) If the food is simply on the clothing, but not embedded into it, it may be removed even if no residue remains on the clothing. Here too, no rubbing of the clothing onto itself, or via a towel, is allowed.

 

Similarly, if one has threads or dandruff on his clothing, it may be removed on Shabbos, as these are not embedded into the clothing, rather they are laying on top of it, and thus are not subject to the Melacha of Melaben. (See Rama Siman 302:1 and Mishna Berura S”K 7)

 

Halachos for Monday, June 23, 2025

 

1) If one’s suit, coat, hat or any other garment became dusty on Shabbos, and he is someone who is particular to clean it off before wearing it in this state, he may not shake it on Shabbos to dispel the dust, and doing so will be a transgression of the Melacha of Melaben. (See Siman 302: 1 and Rama Biur Halacha dibur hamaschil Alei)

 

If, however, he is someone who is not particular to clean off dust before wearing it in this state, he may shake it on Shabbos to dispel the dust, and doing so will not be a transgression of the Melacha of Melaben for him. (ibid. Regarding if one who is not particular about wearing such a garment may shake off the dusty garment of someone else who is particular about wearing dusty clothing, see Biur Halacha dibur hamaschil V’Hu Shemakpid)

 

2) It is prohibited for anyone to rub a dusty garment with their hand or with a towel or other cloth, or with a brush in order to dispel dust that is dirtying the garment. 

 

When it comes to rubbing, there is no difference between an individual who is particular about wearing it in such a state and one who is not particular; it is prohibited. (See Biur Halacha Siman 302: 1 dibur hamaschil Yesh Omrim)

 

A story is told about someone in the MTJ summer camp whose hat fell to the floor on Shabbos and got all muddy. He asked Rav Moshe Feinstein Zatzal if he can clean it, and was told that it is prohibited.

 

He said to Rav Moshe, “But it’s not Kavod Shabbos to walk around with a dusty hat”, to which Rav Moshe replied, “There is no greater honor to the Shabbos – and to Hashem – than walking around with a muddy hat, due to upholding the Halacha that it is prohibited to clean it!”



Let’s keep this perspective in mind!

 

(As heard from Rav Nosson Scherman Shlita)

 

 

Halachos for Tuesday, June 24, 2025

 

1) A black or other dark colored garment which has dew, water droplets, or snow on it that is beginning to melt, and the wearer is particular to clean off the moisture before wearing it in this state, may not be shaken on Shabbos to dispel the droplets or the snow.

 

Shaking this garment will be deemed a transgression of the Melacha of Melaben, as it enhances the garment similar to laundering it. (See Shulchan Aruch siman 302:1 and Biur Halacha dibur hamaschil Min)



2) If the snow did not yet begin to melt, it may be shaken off the garment lightly. (See Biur Halacha ibid. This should be done as soon as possible, as once one enters the house from the cold outside, the melting process begins almost immediately)

 

Halachos for Wednesday, June 25, 2025

 

1) A coat or other garment that is soaked with water (such as after walking in a strong rain storm, or if a jacket or Yarmulka fell into a puddle) may not be shaken off [vigorously] to dispel the water from it.

 

If it is shaken vigorously, it will be a transgression of the Melacha of Sechita, and this is prohibited for all garments, even those that are not black or dark colored, and even if it is an older garment. (See Mishna Berura Siman 302 S”K 3 and 4)

 

2) If it shaken only lightly, for older garments there is no concern of Sechita.



However, if it is a new garment, and one is concerned that the moisture on the garment may shrink it, it may not be shaken even lightly. (ibid.)

 

Halachos for Thursday, June 26, 2025

 

1) It is prohibited to clean carpet or a rug from crumbs or other dirt that fell on it, using a carpet sweeper, on Shabbos.

 

Doing so will invariably clean any dust that is embedded in the carpet, and that is prohibited as it is with garments.

 

It can also an issue of Uvda D’Chol, a weekday activity and of detaching fibers from the carpet, a transgression of the Melacha of Soser. (See Shu”t Minchas Yitzchok Vol. 5 Siman 39 and Shu”t Be’er Moshe Vol. 1 Siman 32:15. See also Shu”t Chelkas Yaakov Orach Chaim Siman 160:3 where he writes that experience shows that every time you open a carpet sweeper, there will be fibers from the carpet in there that were detached as a result of their use and thus “there are no logical reasons to allow its use on Shabbos”. See also “The Shabbos Home” by Rav Simcha Bunim Cohen Shlita, chapter 12 footnote 64, quoting Rav Mosh Feinstein Zatzal and Shu”t Az Nidberu Vol. 11 Siman 11)

 

According to many Poskim it is also prohibited to use any type of brush to clean a carpet on Shabbos.(Some Poskim are lenient with soft brushes, if done softly, and not vigorously. See Shemiras Shabbos K’Hilchasa Perek 23:4 and Shu”t Az Nidberu ibid. Consult your Rav for Halacha L’ma’aseh.)

 

2) It is, however, permitted to lift the crumbs or other small particles of paper or the like using one’s hands, as these are not embedded in the carpet, rather they are lying on its surface, and thus not an issue of Melaben (See Rama Siman 302:1 and Mishna Berura S”K 7)

 

Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh, June 27, 2025 Double Portion L'Kavod Shabbos Kodesh

 

Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh

 

1) It is prohibited to soak a garment in water on Shabbos.

 

It is similarly prohibited to pour water onto a garment on Shabbos.

 

Doing so is included in the biblical prohibition of Melaben, as water cleans garments and thus it is akin to laundering.(See Shulchan Aruch Siman 302:9)

 

2) This is the case even if the intent of soaking the garment or pouring water onto it is not for laundering or cleaning, as invariably it will get cleaned. (See Mishna Berura Siman 302 S”K 46)

 

Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh

 

1) There is a dispute among the Rishonim whether the prohibition of soaking a garment in water or pouring water onto a garment [not for the purposes of laundering it] applies to clean garments, or only to garments that have become soiled.

 

Practically speaking we are stringent and avoid soaking or pouring water onto any garments. (See Rama Siman 302:9)

 

2) If the intent of soaking it in water or pouring water onto it is specifically for cleaning purposes, all agree it is biblically prohibited, even if only a small amount of water is used. (See Mishna Berura Siman 302 S”K 46)

 

 

Halachos for Sunday, June 29, 2025

 

1) Soaking a [clean] garment in water in such a way that it isn’t in a manner of cleaning, rather it is in a manner that soils the garment, is not deemed a transgression of the Melacha of Melaben. (See Rama Siman 302:10)

 

Thus, for example, it is permissible to dry wet hands with a [clean] towel, or dry off one’s wet body with a [clean] towel, or use a [clean] towel to wipe up a spill from the floor or the table on Shabbos.(Rama ibid. The Shulchan Aruch there writes that it is good to shake off your hands from as much excess water as possible before using the towel to totally dry the hands. Though some people are stringent for this opinion, as the Chazon Ish was in practice for himself, most Ashkenazic Poskim follow the Rama and are not concerned for this stringency at all)

 

Similarly, it is permitted to enter a body of water while clothed on Shabbos, or walk in the rain with [clean] clothing.

 

The above is only in situations where there is no specific intent to clean the towel or the clothing by getting it wet.

 

2) Some Poskim maintain that all the leniencies above apply only to clean towels or clean clothing, but if the towel or garment is soiled it is prohibited to soak it in water or pour water on it or otherwise get it wet. (See Biur Halacha Siman 302:9 dibur hamaschil She’ain where he quotes this from the Pri Megadim and the Olas Tamid, but he concludes that he feels that it is permitted, if being done in a manner of soiling – derech lichluch – even if the garments are soiled. See also Smag Lo Sa’aseeh 65 where he permits it)

 

 

Halachos for Monday, June 30, 2025

 

1) If water spills on a cloth tablecloth, it is permitted to use a knife or other utensil to push the water off the side of the table, if necessary, and there is no concern that moving the water over parts of the tablecloth that were not previously wet will be deemed soaking itin water.

 

2) However, care should be taken not to press the knife down hard against the tablecloth as you move the water, as not to come to Sechita, squeezing of the water that has been absorbed into the tablecloth. (See Biur Halacha Siman 320:18 dibur hamaschil Tov for the reasoning)

 

 

Halachos for Tuesday, July 1, 2025

 

1) One who wraps a piece of cloth around the water spout on the sink (as is commonly done on Pesach, or due to the concern of bugs in the water supply, if done in a manner that this is permitted, which we are not discussing now) may open the faucet, and need not be concerned about soaking the piece of cloth in water. (See Biur Halacha Siman 319:10 dibur hamaschil Mishum for the rationale)

 

2) if a [clean] towel or a sponge is lying in the sink, it is permissible to open the sink, even if by doing so the towel or sponge will get wet. (See Orchos Shabbos Perek 13 footnote 56 at length)

 

The wet towel or sponge may be removed from the sink, and we are not concerned with Sechita, even if some drops get dispelled as you move it, so long as you don’t actually squeeze it (See Mishna Berura Siman 301 S”K 172)

 

We are also not concerned about them being Muktzeh.

 

Halachos for Wednesday, July 2, 2025

 

1) Tablecloths or other items made of plastic or nylon may be soaked in water, as they are non-absorbent materials (Even less absorbent than leather, which also may be soaked in water as we saw previously)

 

However, they may not be rubbed with water, as doing so would be deemed a transgression of Melaben.

 

If the plastic tablecloth has thread stitching in it, it may not be soaked in water, as those material threads are subject to the prohibition of soaking in water. (See Shemiras Shabbos K’Hilchas Perek 15: 5 and 8)

 

2) Items made from synthetic threads should be treated as cloth material, and deemed absorbent, due to the density of the threads, and thus should not be soaked in water or otherwise cleaned on Shabbos.

 

Halachos for Thursday, July 3, 2025

 

1) An article of clothing, a towel, a sponge or any other items which absorb water (or other liquid) may not be squeezed on Shabbos, and doing so is a transgression of Sechita, which is a Toladah, sub-category, of the Melacha of Melaben (According to the Rambam Hilchos Shabbos Perek 9 Halacha 11, as this is part of the laundering process. According to Rabbeinu Tam, in Tosafos Shabbos 111b, it is also the Melacha of Mefarek, extracting, a Toladah, sub-category of Dosh, threshing)

 

The prohibition of Sechita also applies to clothing constructed wholly of synthetic threads, as they are absorbent material. (See Shemiras Shabbos K’Hilchasa Perek 15:6. This may be a prohibition on a rabbinic level.)

 

2) The prohibition to squeeze water that was absorbed into an item applies even if the item is clean, and not in need of laundering. (See Shu”t Avnei Nezer Siman 129 quoting the Ohr Zarua)

 

Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh, July 4, 2025 Double Portion L'Kavod Shabbos Kodesh

 

Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh

 

1) It is prohibited to use a wet towel or rag to clean a table or clean the floor, as doing so will lead to Sechita, squeezing of the water in the towel or rag. (Shulchan Aruch Siman 320:17 and Mishna Berura S”K 48)

 

2) However, a dry towel or rag may be used to clean the table or the floor, even if water from the floor or the table will be absorbed into the towel or rag.(See Mishna Berura Siman 302 S”K 60)

 

Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh

 

1) It is permissible to dry wet dishes, silverware and [most] glassware with a dedicated dishcloth, and we are not concerned that it will lead to squeezing out the cloth.

 

2) When the dishcloth becomes very wet, it should be put aside and a different dry one should be used for further drying the dishes. (See Mishna Berura Siman 302 S”K 59)

 

 

 

Halachos for Sunday, July 6, 2025

 

1) Drinking glasses with very narrow openings, such as champagne glasses and other similar stemware, should not be dried with a towel or dishcloth, after rinsing them, as doing so will likely lead to Sechita.

 

2) The reason for this is that , unlike other dishes and glasses with wider openings, due to the narrowness of the opening, the water that will be absorbed into the dishcloth, will invariably be squeezed and dispelled. (See Mishna Berura Siman 302 S”K 58)

 

When it comes to drying a glass with a narrow opening, the concern for Sechita applies to drying wine or other liquids that are in the glass with a dishcloth too, not just to water. (See Mishna Berura ibid.)

 

Halachos for Monday, July 7, 2025

 

1) It is prohibited to use a cotton ball, cotton swab or any other cotton, soaked in water, alcohol, or another fluid, for the purpose of disinfecting a wound, or for any other purpose.

 

Doing so would transgress the Melacha of Sechita. (See Shemiras Shabbos K’Hilchasa Perek 32:59)

 

2) However, it is permissible to pour a disinfectant fluid or any other liquid onto the wound and then clean it using a dry cotton ball or cotton swab.



Care should be taken, however, not to tear the cotton ball to make it smaller. It should be used as is. (See Shemiras Shabbos K’Hilchasa Perek 35 footnote 48)

 

 

Halachos for Tuesday, July 8, 2025

 

1) It is prohibited to use baby wipes that are very moist on Shabbos, to clean up a soiled baby, or for any other reason, as doing so will invariably lead to squeezing the liquid that is in the wipe, and be a prohibition of Sechita.

 

2) If the wipe is only slightly moist, if it can be used by dabbing it, and not squeezing it with pressure, many Poskim allow using it in this manner.

 

Some Poskim are stringent and do not allow any wipes to be used, even if they are only slightly moist. (Based on Rama Siman 613:9. See also Shu”t Shevet Haleivi Vol. 13 Siman 59)

 

Practically, when a baby is very soiled it is almost impossible to clean by just dabbing, and will require pressure ad squeezing, and thus baby wipes should not be used, even if they are only minimally moist.

 

Rather, water may be spritzed on the soiled area, and then be wiped up using dry tissues or dry wipes.

 

(See Shu”t Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 2 Siman 70 and “Children in Halacha” by Rav Simcha Bunim Cohen Shlita, pages. 207-208 and Shemiras Shabbos K’Hilchasa Perek 14 footnote 94 for more about this.)

 

Due to the complexity of this Halacha, and the many different opinions, each individual should consult their Rav for Halacha L’Ma’aseh.

 

Halachos for Wednesday, July 9, 2025

 

1)  It is prohibited to soak a paper towel in water or other liquid and use it to clean up a dirty table or floor or to use it to clean one’s body.

 

While doing this may not be a transgression of Melaben, as the paper towel is being disposed of as it gets ruined via this cleaning (See Shu”t Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 2 Siman 70) it is still a concern of Sechita (See Sefer Me’or Hashabbos Vol. 2 page 523 where he posits that Rav Moshe Zatzal was discussion a non-absorbent paper, and not an absorbent paper towel)

 

2)  Rather, water should be poured on the table or on the body and then it may be wiped up with a dry paper towel. (See Mishna Berura Siman 301 S”K 172)

 

Halachos for Thursday, July 10, 2025

 

1) The Talmud (Shabbos 128b) teaches that there is no concern of Sechita when it comes to dispelling water from one’s hair, as hair does not absorb water (See Rashi there). However, this is only the case on a biblical level, as on a Rabbinic level, there is indeed a prohibition to squeeze wet hair on Shabbos. (See Bais Yosef Yoreh Deah Siman 199 and Mishna Berura Siman 326 S”K 21)

 

It is for this reason that many Poskim, including the Gaon of Vilna (Ma’aseh Rav Siman 125) and the Chazon Ish, maintained that males should not immerse in a Mikvah on Shabbos, as it is all but impossible to not come to squeeze some wet hair.

 

Other Poskim, based on the Arizal, allow, and even encourage using the Mikvah on Shabbos, as doing so increases the person’s levels of Kedusha.

 

In a compromise Psak, the Chofetz Chaim rules that one who is impure due to nocturnal emission may use the Mikvah on Shabbos, whereas one who is pure but wants to immerse just to increase his level of Kedusha, should refrain from immersing, as the concern of transgressing Sechita overrides the desire for extra Kedusha. (See Shulchan Aruch Siman Siman 326:8 and Mishna berura S"k 24 and Biur Halacha dibur hamaschil Adam at length)

 

Many Gedolim, including the Steipler Zatzal, would immerse in a Mikvah on Shabbos, but would not use a towel at all to dry himself, and thus it would not be a concern of Sechita of any hair on the body.

 

2)   One whose hair or beard got wet on Shabbos, may not squeeze it out with his hands to dispel the water.

 

Thus, one whose custom it is to immerse in a Mikvah on Shabbos must be extremely careful to not squeeze any water that is in any hair on his body.

 

Regarding using a towel, some Poskim (including Rav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach and Rav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv Zichrnam L’vracha) maintain that if using the towel in a slow and soft manner where the water that gets dispelled from the hair is immediately absorbed by the towel it is acceptable. (See Shemiras Shabbos K’Hilchasa Perek 12 footnotes 64 and 66, and Sefer Shulchan Shlomo Siman 326:10:3. See also Kobetz Teshivos Siman 27. See also Ben Ish Chai, year 2, Parashas Pikudei)

 

Other Poskim maintain that a towel should not be used at all, even in a soft manner, rather the hair should be allowed to air dry.

 

When doing this, care must be taken to not walk out of the Mikvah building into an area without an Eruv before the hair has sufficiently dried, as walking out with significant droplets of water still in your hair, is a concern of Hotza’ah, carrying. (See Orchos Yosher from Rav Chaim Kanievsky Zatzal; Tahara, for more about the 3 conditions needed to use the Mikvah on Shabbos in a permissible way)



For Psak Halacha L’ma’aseh every individual should follow the custom of his Kehila, after discussing with his Rav.

 

Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh, July 11, 2025 Double Portion L'Kavod Shabbos Kodesh

 

Halachos for Erev Shabbos Kodesh

 

1)  One who is careful not to use a towel to dry his hair after using the Mikvah on Shabbos, should also try to be careful when getting dressed, if possible, to not allow his clothing to press hard against his wet head and his wet beard, as doing so may squeeze the water out.

 

2) If it is impossible to put on his clothes without them squeezing some of the water, he may still proceed with getting dressed. (See Shu”t Igros Moshe Orach Chaim Vol. 1 Siman 133 that this is a Pesik Reisha D’Lo Nicha Lei, as he does not want his clothing to get all wet)

 

Halachos for Shabbos Kodesh

 

1) Many Poskim maintain that the concern of squeezing wet hair applies only to areas of the body that have a lot of hair, such as the head and the beard, as there it has an appearance of being absorbed by the hair, but not to areas that have minimal amounts of hair.

 

Thus, it is not an issue to wash one’s hands on Shabbos and dry them well, with force, using a towel, and there is no concern of Sechita as it relates to the hair on the hands.(See Ketzos Hashulchan Siman 133, Badei Hashulchan 8. We also do not find anywhere in the Poskim any mention of an issue with washing the hands on Shabbos)

 

2) One whose socks got saturated with water due to walking in the rain, or stepping into a puddle, may continue walking even though the water is being squeezed out of the socks as he walks.

 

However, when he gets home, he should remove the socks and put on a dry pair in their place. (See Mishna Berura Siman 614 S”K 12 and Minchas Shabbos Siman 80 S”K 131 and in kuntres Achron there 7)