Wiping surfaces of aqueous liquids is an activity practiced by virtually everyone, whether at home, at play; or at work. Among the properties desired of a cloth used for wiping aqueous liquids are the following:
(a) Sufficient capacity to be able to retain a reasonable quantity of liquid;
(b) Adequate take-up rate so that spills can be wiped up within a reasonable period of time;
(c) Ability to pick up liquid while leaving little or no residue;
(d) Abrasion resistance appropriate to the end-use intended for the fabric;
(e) Fabric-like softness or hand so that the cloth is comfortable to handle;
(f) Economy (i.e., low cost per use); and
(g) In a cloth having re-use capabilities, resistance to staining by foods, grease, and the like.
This invention is directed to a nonwoven fabric that has these properties.