5 Fool-Proof Ways to Clean a Sponge and When to Replace It

Sponges probably aren’t as clean as they seem, even if we use them to clean our dishes and surfaces. A 2019 study found that sponges contain high levels of bacteria and described them as “the most contaminated item in the household.”

Sponges are breeding grounds bacteria since they’re porous and hold moisture. Sponges need to be replaced often, but the good news is there are ways to disinfect and clean your sponge to give it a little longer life. 

Learn how to clean your sponge and when it’s time to replace it below.

How Often Should You Clean a Sponge 

If you use the sponge regularly, such as in the kitchen to clean dishes and surfaces, you should clean the sponge every couple of days. You can clean it even more often if it begins to smell or look dirty or for your own peace of mind. 

Cleaning a sponge won’t remove all bacteria, but it can reduce the microorganisms inside your sponge to greatly decrease the risk of spreading germs all over your home. 

How to Clean a Sponge: 5 Methods 

Method 1: Microwave

1. Wet the sponge completely with clean water.
2. Place the sponge in a microwave-safe container.
3. Microwave the sponge for one minute on the highest setting. 
4. Leave the sponge in the microwave for 10 minutes to allow the steam to kill off any remaining bacteria. 
5. Remove the sponge from the microwave, squeeze out the remaining water, and let dry.

Method 2: Dishwasher

1. Place the sponge on the top rack of the dishwasher. 
2. Run the sanitation and heat dry cycle on the dishwasher.
3. Remove the sponge from the dishwasher and squeeze out any remaining water. Set out to dry. 

Method 3: Boiling water

1. Bring a pot of water to boil. 
2. Place the sponge in the pot. Use a spoon or spatula to make sure the sponge is fully submerged.
3. Boil the sponge for five to seven minutes. 
4. Remove the pot from heat and allow the water and sponge to cool completely.
5. Remove the sponge from the water and wring it out. Let dry. 

Method 4: Vinegar

1. Fill a small container with white distilled vinegar.
2. Soak the sponge in the dish for five minutes.
3. Remove the sponge and wring out the vinegar.
4. Rinse with warm water.
5. Wring out the sponge and let it dry.

Method 5: Bleach

Cleaning a sponge with a bleach solution has been found to be a more consistent method of reducing bacteria since the other methods have more variables, such as appliance strength or temperature of water.

1. Fill a small container with 1 cup bleach and 1 gallon of water. 
2. Soak the sponge in the solution for five minutes. 
3. Remove the sponge and wring out the bleach solution.
4. Rinse with warm water. 
5. Wring out the sponge and let it dry.  

When Should You Replace Your Sponge?

The general rule is to replace your frequently used sponges every one to two weeks. If you clean your sponge every day, you may be able to replace it closer to the two-week mark.

However, no cleaning method will fully remove all the bacteria in your sponge, so it’s important to replace it frequently. 

If the idea of a bacteria-filled sponge grosses you out, try using washcloths to wipe down counters and surfaces and use a dish brush to clean your dishes. Studies have found that dish brushes dry faster than sponges and bacteria dies faster on them as well.

Washcloths also aren’t as porous as sponges which helps prevent moisture and bacteria growth.