ABSTRACT A handle assembly for use with a fibrous cleaning pad includes a rigid first member including a first insertable portion and includes a second member including a second insertable portion and an actuation portion. The end of the second insertable portion opposite the actuation portion is pivotally mounted on the end of the first insertable portion opposite the handle portion for relative movement of the insertable portions by manipulation of the actuation portion between a diverging position of the insertable portions and an adjacent position. At least one insertable portion has at least one barb projecting from its inner surface, and the other insertable portion has an opening aligned with that barb which projects above the other insertable portion in the adjacent position so that the barb will engage the cleaning pad.