How to clean dishwashing sponges and how often to replace them
Did you know that your dishwashing sponge can become one of the germiest objects in your kitchen if you don’t take care of it correctly?
Because your kitchen wipers are used to clean up lots of different messes along with the fact that they are pretty much always damp makes the kitchen sponge the perfect environment for a range of pretty nasty germs. Sponges are also porous and dense so bacteria can hide deep inside where you can’t see. That’s why the kitchen sponge is rated to be one of your kitchen’s dirtiest items. To help you keep your family safe, here are some tips for cleansing your sponge and keeping it in tip-top condition:
Clean it after every use
After each meal preparation or cleansing session, soak your sponge in hot water with soap, a food-safe antiseptic solution or bleach and then thoroughly rinse. You must wring as much excess water out of the sponge as possible.
Steam it in the microwave to kill bacteria
You can also disinfect your sponge by placing it wet in the microwave for 2 minutes in 30-second intervals to make sure it doesn’t burn. The extreme heat helps to kill bacteria that live on the sponge. Remember to be careful with the sponge after microwaving it as it can become scalding.
Run it in the dishwasher with your dishes
You can also run your sponge through the dishwasher on the top rack – the heat from the rinse and your dishwashing detergent will help in the cleaning process. Don’t forget to remove the sponge once the cycle is complete and remove any excess water that the sponge has absorbed.
Use targeted detergents
As a general safety precaution, use dish detergent and other dishwashing products that are specifically designed to combat germs on your cleaning instruments. Opt for a dishwashing liquid with anti-bacterial properties such as Sunlight Anti-bacterial Dishwashing Liquid that’s intended, as much for dish care, as it is for sponge and wiper care. The formula uses the same trusted degreasing ingredients with the added power of mint and lactic acid to kill germs.
Here are a few critical warnings regarding your sponges:
- Don’t use a sponge on the cutting boards or surfaces that you use to prepare raw meat.
- Don’t keep sponges too long. Depending on how often you use it – however, the consensus is that sponges should be replaced weekly.
Take action in your kitchen, and keep your kitchen sponges clean. It’s a quick and simple process that can help to keep you and your loved ones healthy.
