Abstract: A self-wringing absorbent device includes a handle (10) with a pair of brackets (12) extending from opposite ends. Each bracket terminates in an archway (16). The brackets are connected on opposite sides by first and second bases (14). A retraction bar (22) is mounted between the brackets for slidable movement towards and away from the handle. The retraction bar is mounted to a hinged platen (28) against which the bases bear and in which the hinge (30) is aligned with and substantially centered under the two archways. When the retraction bar is drawn towards the handle by the action of the fingers of the hand grasping the handle, the hinge of the platen is drawn upwards, the bases bear against the sides of the platen forcing them to fold about the hinge and be drawn into the archways, compressing a pad mounted to the platen. In an alternative embodiment, the absorbent device includes flared ends (43) on the brackets (42) extending from the handle (40).