How to Clean a Sponge
Remove any remaining food scraps from the sponge., Wring out the sponge as much as possible and place aside where it can dry completely., Avoid cleaning the cutting board with it, especially if the cutting board has been used for raw meat. , Wet the...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Remove any remaining food scraps from the sponge.
(Bacteria love moisture.) ,, Caution:
Some sponges are made of plastic material that can melt in a microwave even if the sponge is very wet.
Place a paper towel underneath the sponge
- if your sponge melts, this will make clean up much easier. , According to a study by the USDA, microwaving for one minute significantly lowers bacteria counts and populations of mold and yeast more than other methods.Researchers have also discovered that after microwaving for two minutes, more than 99% of all the living bacteria will be dead.
It's a good idea to place at least a half-cup of water in the microwave with the sponge to be cleaned.
This helps to protect your microwave emitter. , Caution:
Squeezing the sponge before cooling can cause severe burns. , Allow it to remain for the entire wash and dry cycle. , The sponge will now have
99.9998% less bacteria on it. , But it still helps a great deal. ,, Rinse thoroughly under running water. , Use hot tap water to maximize the effectiveness of the bleach (Chemistry 101
- hot water makes the molecules in the bleach more agitated, thereby increasing their effectiveness).
A plastic food container you are intending to recycle is a good bowl to use. , Squeeze the sponge at least a couple of times while it is soaking.
This helps ensure the bleach completely penetrates the sponge, and aids the removal of organic debris (the very stuff you want gone). , -
Step 2: Wring out the sponge as much as possible and place aside where it can dry completely.
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Step 3: Avoid cleaning the cutting board with it
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Step 4: especially if the cutting board has been used for raw meat.
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Step 5: Wet the sponge completely and do not allow it to dry.
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Step 6: Put it into the microwave
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Step 7: and set it for at least one minute.
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Step 8: Remove and let cool before using.
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Step 9: Place it into the utensil compartment of the next wash and dry cycle.
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Step 10: Remove it after the washer stops.
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Step 11: One study suggests the soaking method is not as effective as other methods.
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Step 12: You may wish to use a rubber glove to protect your hands while performing these steps.
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Step 13: Clean the sponge as well as you can using tap water and dish detergent.
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Step 14: Make a solution of 10% bleach in a small bowl.
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Step 15: Soak the sponge for 5 minutes
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Step 16: maximum 10 minutes.
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Step 17: Remove and rinse thoroughly under running water.
Detailed Guide
(Bacteria love moisture.) ,, Caution:
Some sponges are made of plastic material that can melt in a microwave even if the sponge is very wet.
Place a paper towel underneath the sponge
- if your sponge melts, this will make clean up much easier. , According to a study by the USDA, microwaving for one minute significantly lowers bacteria counts and populations of mold and yeast more than other methods.Researchers have also discovered that after microwaving for two minutes, more than 99% of all the living bacteria will be dead.
It's a good idea to place at least a half-cup of water in the microwave with the sponge to be cleaned.
This helps to protect your microwave emitter. , Caution:
Squeezing the sponge before cooling can cause severe burns. , Allow it to remain for the entire wash and dry cycle. , The sponge will now have
99.9998% less bacteria on it. , But it still helps a great deal. ,, Rinse thoroughly under running water. , Use hot tap water to maximize the effectiveness of the bleach (Chemistry 101
- hot water makes the molecules in the bleach more agitated, thereby increasing their effectiveness).
A plastic food container you are intending to recycle is a good bowl to use. , Squeeze the sponge at least a couple of times while it is soaking.
This helps ensure the bleach completely penetrates the sponge, and aids the removal of organic debris (the very stuff you want gone). ,
About the Author
Jerry Nguyen
Writer and educator with a focus on practical creative arts knowledge.
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