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Synthetic kitchen sponges have been around since the 1940s. They’re durable and soak up water like nobody’s business, which makes them great for cleaning all types of surfaces. Chances are, though, that you’re using yours all wrong. Here are all the mistakes you’re making with your kitchen sponge.
It’s simple: get a sponge holder. You probably know what that is. You might even already own one. But sponge holders come in a variety of designs—some affix to the side of your sink via a suction cup, some hang over your faucet, some simply stand on the countertop—and a lot of them can be massively disappointing.
You store it improperly.
If you’re not supposed to leave your sponge in the sink, where does it go? Put your sponge in a basket or drying rack to promote air circulation. The quicker it dries out, the cleaner it will remain.
You leave it in the sink.
After scrubbing a batch of grimy dishes, it’s tempting to toss your sponge in the sink and forget about it until your next dishwashing session. However, no matter how carefully you wash your dinnerware, your sink is a haven for bacteria—and leaving your sponge in a germ-filled environment is a bad idea. Sponges are less likely to dry properly if left in a damp, moist sink environment—making it a perfect breeding ground for even more germs.
The DO’S and DON’TS of Kitchen Sponges!!
FAQ
Where is the best place to store kitchen sponges?
How do you store sponges in the sink?
Where do you put soap & sponge on a kitchen sink?
A conventional sink setup usually has the soap and sponge right beside the faucet or on a window ledge behind, but this can add to clutter and make it harder to wipe down surfaces. ‘I have a tiny kitchen, so the less on show, the better.
Should you sanitize a used kitchen sponge?
As the study in Scientific Reports shows, attempting to sanitize used sponges won’t make them cleaner, and it may even promote the growth of certain types of bacteria. Save the time you used to spend washing sponges and buy a new one instead. When your kitchen sponge starts to smell, that’s a sign it’s brewing bacteria.
Should you put a sponge holder in the sink?
Leaving it in your sink or next to your faucet inhibits air circulation, which means your sponge will hold on to water for longer and develop that dreaded mildewy stink. Investing in a sponge holder allows for proper drainage and will keep it fresher for longer. An essential part of keeping your sponges in good shape is regular sanitizing.
How to clean a dish sponge?
Do clean your sponges daily. A clean dish sponge decreases your odds of spreading bacteria around your kitchen. Microwaving is one of the most effective methods of cleaning sponges. Simply place a completely wet sponge in the microwave for one to two minutes. Keep an eye on it while the microwave’s on. Give it time to cool before removing it.