Sponges are an essential item in any household. They come in handy when washing dishes, cleaning counters, and wiping surfaces. However, with time, sponges develop an unpleasant odor that can make it unbearable to use them. This odor can be caused by a build-up of bacteria, mold, and mildew. Luckily, there are several ways to clean sponges and eliminate the foul smell. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best ways to clean sponges and get rid of the odor.
- Microwave
Microwaving your sponge is one of the most effective ways to get rid of the smell. First, make sure your sponge is damp, and then place it in the microwave for two minutes on high power. This method kills most of the bacteria, mold, and mildew that cause the odor. However, it’s essential to note that some sponges may melt in the microwave, so make sure you check the manufacturer’s instructions before microwaving your sponge.
- Boiling
Another effective method of cleaning your sponge is by boiling it. Boiling your sponge in hot water for five minutes will kill most of the bacteria, mold, and mildew. However, if you have a delicate sponge, boiling may damage it. Additionally, boiling may not be as effective as microwaving since it doesn’t kill all the bacteria.
- Vinegar
Vinegar is a versatile cleaner that can be used to clean almost anything in your home, including sponges. To clean your sponge with vinegar, soak it in a mixture of water and vinegar for five minutes. Vinegar has antibacterial properties that help eliminate the odor-causing bacteria. After soaking, rinse the sponge with clean water and squeeze out the excess moisture.
- Baking soda
Baking soda is another household item that can be used to clean sponges. To clean your sponge with baking soda, mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a cup of warm water. Soak your sponge in the mixture for 15 minutes, then rinse it with clean water and squeeze out the excess moisture.
- Dishwasher
Another effective way to clean your sponge is by placing it in the dishwasher. Make sure your sponge is in the top rack of the dishwasher, then run the dishwasher on the hottest cycle. The high temperatures of the dishwasher will kill most of the bacteria, mold, and mildew. However, this method may not be effective if your sponge is heavily soiled.
- Lemon
Lemon is another natural cleaner that can be used to clean your sponge. To clean your sponge with lemon, soak it in a mixture of water and lemon juice for five minutes. Lemon has natural antibacterial properties that help eliminate the odor-causing bacteria. After soaking, rinse the sponge with clean water and squeeze out the excess moisture.
- Replace regularly
No matter how well you clean your sponge, it will eventually wear out and develop an odor that can’t be eliminated. To avoid this, it’s essential to replace your sponge regularly. A good rule of thumb is to replace your sponge every two to four weeks, depending on how often you use it.
In conclusion, sponges are a necessary household item that requires regular cleaning to eliminate the foul odor. There are several ways to clean sponges, including microwaving, boiling, using vinegar, baking soda, the dishwasher, and lemon. However, the most effective way to avoid the odor is by replacing your sponge regularly. By following these tips, you can keep your sponges clean and fresh-smelling, making your household chores much more pleasant.