Your sponge is bacteria’s favorite place to grow, which is why you should be replacing it frequently.
However, this absorption also makes sponges a home for bacteria, which quickly defeats their ability to clean.
Rhonda Wilson is the Quality Lead Cleaner forFreshspace Cleaning.
Credit:Ladanifer / Getty Images
How Often Should You Replace Your Sponge?
Replacing your sponges every week is the sweet spot to hit, according to Wilson.
This might sound excessive, but sponges are porous and hold onto food fragments and moisture.
“Dont wait for your sponge to reek before replacing it.”
A musty smell is a red flag for an accumulation of bacteria.
Texture:Any sort of flaking or a slimy appearance means your sponge is overdue for a replacement.
Wilson also recommends setting up a rotation for your sponges.
It will also limit the opportunities for cross-contamination, particularly withraw meat.
However, Wilson also warns that even the best sponge care is not a long-term solution.
Proper Storage
Sponges can last longer if stored in a dry spot.
If you’re unable to find a good resting spot, consider using a sponge holder.
The drier your sponge, the longer it will last.
Cleaning
Cleaning a sponge with heat is an effective way to kill bacteria.
Be sure your sponge is damp before sticking it into the microwave so it doesn’t catch fire.
Its also possible to soak your sponges in a diluted bleach solution.
of bleach per gallon of water and soak for 5 minutes.
Finish the process by thoroughly rinsing the sponge with water.
Microbiome analysis and confocal microscopy of used kitchen sponges reveal massive colonization byAcinetobacter,MoraxellaandChryseobacteriumspecies.
Scientific Reports
So Your Kitchen Sponge Is A Bacteria Hotbed.
Here’s What To Do.
