How often do you need to change the dishwashing sponge?

Sizes and shapes

Most often you can find rectangular fixtures. Some of them have a ledge, it is convenient to grip it with your fingers while washing dishes. Such sponges lie well in the hand and do not slip out, and they will help fashionistas to keep their nails beautiful and well-groomed.

Round or oval scourers can be specially adapted for cleaning deep-bottomed dishes. They are comfortable, fit well in the palm of your hand and can reach the most difficult to reach places. There are also sponges attached to the end of a plastic handle, using them, the hostess will be able to protect her hands from the aggressive effects of water and detergents.

How to store rags in the kitchen

In the kitchen there is a wide variety of different rags, sponges, towels, brushes. Things in this room require a special attitude towards themselves, because it is there that the greatest microbes that can harm health are bred. Rags in the kitchen must be changed frequently, dried, washed, ventilated.

Where to store cleaning rags

Some housewives store cleaning items in places of direct use, others in the bathroom.

Since there is little space in the bathroom, all the free space must be used. Many housewives leave a cloth in the sink, or on it. There is no opportunity to dry out, and soon the thing falls into disrepair. But there are sinks with recesses, which is convenient for placing sponges there.

A towel bar is used. It is attached to a wall, under a sink or other inconspicuous place. It does not spoil the look of the room, and is convenient for hanging products.

You can put a bucket between the toilet and the wall. Hang both a floor cloth and cleaning products on it to dry. In the free space under the sink, you can mount cabinets, shelves, baskets. There and store dry rags, putting everything together.

Where to store the dish sponge

The main attribute of the kitchen is a kitchen sponge. For convenience, it is placed where it is needed - in the sink, or near it. But there is constant moisture in the sink and this spoils the material. More often, housewives keep rags near the sink.

Sponge holder

At the moment, the stores have a wide range of sponge holders. It is convenient and practical to store a sponge in such a stand. After washing, water and a little detergent drip from the sponge, therefore it is recommended to wash the stand several once a week.

Detergent dispensers

A practical and convenient accessory. Here everything is in its place, both the detergent and the sponge. The dispenser itself helps when washing dishes, and the special sponge holder is easy to clean.

Wall mounted soap dishes

They can be used for more than just storing soap. Such accessories look aesthetically pleasing and convenient in everyday use for storing sponges.

Holders on double-sided tape

These holders are attached directly to the sink. The advantage is that it saves space on the countertop around the sink. Also, in this position, the sponge dries quickly, and the remains of the detergent from it flow directly into the sink.

Special sponges

Metal scourers are ideal tools for heat-resistant dishes such as ducklings, pans, skewers, cauldrons, baking sheets and ovens. Just do not wash enamel or Teflon coatings with them, as scratches may occur in which bacteria will multiply. These types include abrasive sponges.

Sponges for delicate surfaces. Often, this is a rough material that is wrapped in plastic or soft synthetic fibers. Such a sponge will ideally wash the surface without leaving any scratches. These sponges often have a short shelf life.

Melamine washcloths.At the moment, this is the most popular option, since, despite the rapid wear and tear, it perfectly copes with grease on any surface. Such a washcloth is flexible and soft, therefore it does not require a huge amount of detergents, and also does not leave scratches. It is made from melamine resin. During use, the foam hits the surface, as a result of which the grease is quickly removed. Just do not forget that you cannot wash dishes with this kind of sponges. The maximum that is allowed is aluminum pans and then from the outside.

Sponges filled with detergent - each housewife must decide for herself whether this option suits her or not. Often these washcloths are used in field conditions, so avoid the possibility of washing dishes with which you eat with such products.

How to protect yourself

Some people recommend not changing the sponge, but disinfecting it, for example, putting it in water and heating it in the microwave (the water will boil and destroy microorganisms). But at the same time, there is an opinion that only 60% of microorganisms can be destroyed in this way.

Most experts are inclined to believe that it is not worth saving on your security. Therefore, this kitchen item needs to be replaced approximately once every 7 days.

You should not trust some manufacturers who deliberately extend the life of the kitchen material to several months. When used, such sponges simply become a kind of "time bomb".

Medical journalist Daria Sargsyan in her book "Wallpaper Killers, Poisonous Water and Tempting Stools" advises to rinse the sponge well with hot water after use. The author recommends changing the sponge every week, or sooner if it starts to smell bad.

And, as you know, you can't just change the sponge. It is necessary to follow the basic rules of hygiene and behavior in the kitchen when cooking. Experts advise changing napkins and kitchen towels more often, disinfecting work surfaces and eating places.

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Nobody canceled the rules of washing hands before eating, after and during cooking.

And it is worth paying attention to dishwashing. After processing, it should not have streaks and stains.

Note!

A person with colds should not be allowed to wash the dishes. Its microbes will definitely get on the sponge and can infect others. This is especially true for offices and organizations.

In conclusion, we repeat the necessary measures:

The sponge should be changed at least every week. In this case, the health risk is minimal.
If the sponge smells bad, this is a sign that it should be replaced immediately.
Remember to regularly sanitize your sink and faucet, and wash the utensils that you used to prepare food, be it meat, poultry or seafood, in a timely manner. These pans should be washed with hot water and detergent.

How to choose the right dish sponge

Each housewife chooses a sponge for herself. But it should be borne in mind that sponges with hard materials are categorically contraindicated for Teflon and delicate coatings. This threatens to create small cracks and scratches that will soon be filled with bacteria.

In the modern world, a huge number of various sponges are produced.

Materials that are too soft will not be able to handle tough dirt. It will be appropriate to choose either a combined type of sponge (abrasive coating on the one hand, and foam rubber on the other), or stock up on several types of sponges. A complete set of necessary rags, sponges and other things is much more convenient than trying to wash off the adhering fat on the cauldron with foam rubber.

Cellulose sponges have a pronounced antibacterial effect.

By the way, it is worth noting such a variety as bamboo sponges. Since allergy is an unpleasant disease that can occur on almost anything.Allergy sufferers need to pick up all objects that cannot cause them unpleasant sensations. In addition, bamboo sponges can be safely used to clean children's dishes.

Kitchen towels

Elizabeth Scott's recommendations are stricter for these accessories. If you cook and wash the dishes every day, you will need to change your kitchen towels as well. Of course, it is not always advisable to "start" the washing machine because of a couple of small-sized items. Therefore, Elizabeth Scott herself uses disposable paper towels to wipe clean dishes and kitchen furniture surfaces. According to her, this not only saves time, but also helps to maintain hygiene at an appropriate level.

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How to make a sponge with your own hands

There is nothing easier than making a sponge yourself. It consists of foam rubber, therefore, this material must be addressed. Since at the moment there is a big environmental problem, and a foam rubber object will decompose for about 200 years, alternative options can be considered.

You can make a sponge yourself.

Among the alternative methods of creation are washcloths:

From jute;
From a mesh for vegetables;
From tulle

These are the main options for needlework. All of them are incredibly low cost.
For knitting with jute you need: jute, a hook and scissors. This can be done easily if you remember the labor lessons from school with the theme of crocheting. We carry out: 5 air loops, we loop. We continue to knit in a circle, do not forget about the double crochet, add air loops.

If you make a sponge yourself, then take into account the place where it will be stored.

You do not need to tighten it tightly, you can and even need to leave gaps. This technique will produce a sponge that dries quickly. Goal: the circle is larger than the palm. You can add your own patterns, if desired. In the water, the sponge will shrink. Remember to secure the loop on which you will store the washcloth by the sink. Caring for this type of sponge provides for disinfection every 7 days with boiling water. Additional end-of-life use cases can be found in the article above.

You cannot make a silicone sponge yourself.

After you bought the potatoes, you don't have to throw the net away. Cut off the top and don't touch the sides. Fold the mesh into 4 layers. And crochet around the perimeter of the resulting square to secure the layers of the mesh and give it a beautiful decoration. Fatin appears on the bride, but not in the process of washing dishes.

Sponges made of different materials are suitable for different dishes.

If you have this fabric left over, fold it into a long rectangle. Cut small strips along the entire rectangle. All the strips made must be connected together. Just tie with your hands. Arm yourself with a crochet and knit rounds from the created strips. Use the knitting principle as with jute.

Varieties of sponges by material

Production includes a large number of different materials for washing dishes and kitchen surfaces. Each of the materials is good, but it is worth considering the features so as not to harm.

Abrasive sponge. Hard or abrasive sponges do a good job of cleaning up dirt that pure foam will not cope with. They have one part made of foam rubber and the other abrasive. Or they are made entirely of rigid material, such as metal materials.
Foam sponge. Most common use case. It has a big disadvantage in that it wears out quickly and tends to accumulate harmful bacteria in itself. Therefore, do not be lazy and replace it once a week.
Plastic. The option is more gentle than a metal sponge. It is convenient for her to wash cups and mugs.The disadvantage is that if you apply a cleaning gel to it, it can seep through the large holes that are between the plastic fibers.
Metallic. A kind that is not suitable for washing all types of dishes. It is appropriate to use it only on objects with thick metal walls. Application on Teflon coatings will damage them.
Microfiber sponge. The production of such sponges is based on polyester fibers. They are characterized by: hygroscopicity and long service life. Handles dirt well and is washable.

Correctly selected detergent and the type of dishwashing sponges you have chosen will speed up and facilitate the work.

Each composition is designed for specific actions. An incorrectly chosen sponge will either not cope with its task, or it will severely damage the coating.

How much to store

The shops offer a wide variety of different cleaning materials. Let's take a closer look at them.

Microfiber cloths... Ideal helpers that are pleasant to the touch and absorb moisture well and remove dirt. Woven cloths are suitable for the kitchen, they are convenient for dusting and cleaning the floor. They can be washed and dried, which extends the service life to one to two years. Non-woven microfiber is versatile and great for cleaning glass. With a careful attitude, it will last about a month.

A synthetic material that has proven itself on the good side - latex. A harsh product to the touch, but when wet, it absorbs moisture amazingly. This material is poorly washed and gradually crumbles, so it will last no more than two months.
Durable and easy to use natural bamboo cloths. They remove dirt and wash well. such products can be used for up to six months.
If you do not like the painstaking care of your inventory, then viscose rags are suitable for you. Rolled napkins are quite thick and easy to use. After one use, they will be thrown away.
The biggest cleaning helpers are sponges. They are varied and versatile. Foam base distributes detergents economically. Since the sponge not only washes, but also absorbs food particles and dirt, bacteria multiply there quickly. It is recommended to change the sponges as often as possible.
We will not disregard tea towels. The materials from which they are made (bamboo, cotton, linen) are durable, and with proper care, they complement the interior with their appearance. Clothes need to be washed and dried frequently. It is recommended to change them every day, or at least once or twice a week, depending on the frequency of use.

How often to change the dishwashing sponge

Experts recommend replacing dishwashing pads every week, more than once a month. However, if you don't make a kitchen sponge on your list of weekly must-haves, you run the risk of being negatively affected by potentially pathogenic bacteria.

When scientists compared the microflora content of sponges that were processed in boiling water or a microwave oven with those sponges that were not disinfected at all, they did not find any difference. It turns out that disinfecting a sponge cannot completely eliminate bacteria. In addition, the sponge can deteriorate further after washing the dishes.

It should be remembered that heat treatment helps to eliminate harmful microflora, but not spore cultures, from which new microorganisms appear in a short period of time. The porous structure of the sponge, in which grease, water and organic debris accumulate, is an ideal environment for the rapid spread of bacteria.

Trying to get rid of the bacteria in the sponge can further increase their numbers. Microorganisms become more resistant to external stimuli, and the rate of their reproduction and spread increases. Among the representatives of harmful microflora there are such groups: Moraxellaosloensis, Acinetobacterjohnsonii, Chryseobacteriumhominis.

DNA analysis identified 360 varieties of bacteria and fungal infections that accumulate in the pores of kitchen sponges. Besides the fact that these microorganisms cause bad odor, they are the causative agents of many serious diseases.

Most often, bacteria that enter the body from untreated washcloths and dishwashing scrapers lead to the following problems:

upset stomach;
bowel disease;
diseases of the upper respiratory tract (tracheitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis);
various infectious diseases of the digestive system;
meningitis;
pneumonia;
vaginitis.

The only way is to get rid of your old kitchen sponges and get new ones. This will avoid many health problems.

Where to store rags

If the house has enough space and a storage room, then this is a great place to store inventory. If there is no such room, then you can use a niche in the toilet or bathroom. In it, you can attach shelves, hooks, slats, clips and spread out on them, hang rags for cleaning. The main thing is that the room is dry, illuminated and ventilated.

If there is no separate place, then you can store sponges, rags, towels in the room where they are needed. To do this, you can use a variety of devices that can be placed on a surface, hung on a wall, or attached to cabinet doors.

Many housewives use towel dryers or heating radiators for convenience. The most beloved places for this are the kitchen or the bathroom.

Specifications

Depending on the material and composition used, all cleaning sponges have distinctive characteristics:

Foam rubber. Such a product is suitable for daily use, and the porous structure provides a large amount of foam. Suitable for all types of dishes and detergents. They differ in low cost, but the main drawback is that they wear out quickly and become unusable. In addition, foam sponges absorb odors well, dry for a long time and cannot cope with heavy dirt.
With an abrasive layer. This product also consists mainly of foam rubber, but the reverse side is represented by a hard, fine-grained material. The hard layer is designed to remove stubborn dirt. Suitable for cleaning most products, except for delicate surfaces that cannot be scratched (Teflon, plastic, ceramics, enamel).
Metallic. Such sponges are used, as a rule, not so often, but only when it is necessary to remove burnt fat or other complex contaminants. Often this product does not need to be changed, as it is quite durable. However, with regular use, such a sponge quickly deforms and crumbles.
Plastic. It is considered a durable product that can handle heavy dirt. The main advantage is that it is intended for cleaning dishes made of any material. However, given the synthetic composition of such brushes, a more careful selection of the manufacturer will be required. In rare cases, it causes an allergic reaction.
Bamboo. Bamboo washcloths are made from fibers, handle tough stains and do not cause irritation or allergies. They also do not damage dishes, do not absorb odors, are easy to clean and are completely environmentally friendly. However, such products are expensive.
Silicone. Such products do not absorb odors, do not accumulate bacteria, do not deform, dry quickly, are distinguished by their durability, resistance to high temperatures and safety. However, a fashionable product has a number of negative characteristics: a silicone brush retains detergent rather poorly, and also slips strongly in the hand while washing dishes. In addition, it is extremely difficult to wash off stubborn dirt with a silicone washcloth.
Microfiber. The main feature of such a brush is the ability to use it without the use of a detergent.Made from ecological materials. After washing the dishes, rinsing will be required, since microfiber quickly deteriorates due to its absorbent properties. Practically powerless against heavy pollution.
Cellulose. Viscose products have antibacterial properties and do not cause an allergic reaction. Quality sponges are made from ecological material. Cellulose brushes have a long service life. Storage on special stands will be required, where they will always be dry.

Regardless of the type of cleaning product, it is recommended to choose high-quality sponges from safe materials.

A few words about spices

Spices stored on kitchen shelves also need to be revised regularly. If their expiration date has expired, then at best they will not give the necessary aroma to the prepared dish, at worst they can be harmful to health. Culinary experts from the American company Serious Eats ("Serious about food"), as a result of research, concluded that seasonings made from mixtures of various ingredients are suitable for use within eight months (no more). The shelf life of homogeneous whole spices is slightly longer - from 1 to 2 years. The only exceptions are some "superscented" food additives (such as nutmeg or star anise). They retain their properties much longer. On the other hand, some powdered spices (turmeric, black pepper and ginger), almost "instantly" lose their "odor". Therefore, it is better to purchase them in finely packaged sealed packages.

Than washing dishes instead of a sponge

You can replace the foam rubber with any of the above suggested homemade options. An ordered or made independent jute washcloth will delight you with the quality of washing dirt from plates.

Different types of dishes require special care.

After changing the foam to this type of material, you will be surprised that the detergents do not foam the way they do on sponges. In addition, hardware stores have a large selection of dishcloths. They cope with the task no worse than foam rubber, and they dry better.

If you notice that the washcloth has begun to crumble or change color, discard it immediately.

There is no universal option. It would be nice if one sponge handles a lot of different dirt, does not foam too much, be environmentally friendly and does not require a lot of detergent.

Please note, when buying sponges, the storage conditions and service life. By adhering to these simple rules, you take care of your health and the health of your household.

How to store a sponge

Washing, boiling, soaking in bleach or vinegar are unnecessary steps in the case of sponges. It is recommended to replace them at least once every 7 days if the composition of the sponge is foam rubber.

There are many sponge storage devices today.

Environmentally friendly materials do not accumulate bacteria as actively. Replacement is carried out every 30-60 days. In order not to throw away harmless material, it can be buried in the ground. Jute sponges are poured over with boiling water every 7 days. If they lose their aesthetic appearance or stretch, they are soaked in a soda solution.

Washcloths need to be washed systematically.

You can get a lot of benefits from one jute scrubber. When it ceases to serve as a material for washing, bury it in a pot with a plant. It can also serve as a drain. Dishwashing materials will spoil the aesthetics of the room if they stand in the most conspicuous place. In addition, sponges left on the sink lose their appearance over time and can acquire an unpleasant odor.

Store sponges in an ideally ventilated place.

If you have the opportunity to store in a cabinet under the sink - store it there

It is important to remember that it should lie slightly damp in the cabinet, for this it is squeezed out beforehand. An empty sink is beautiful

If the sight of an empty object is not to your liking or it is not practical to take out a sponge, there is no cabinet. Then go shopping for kitchen accessories.

There you can find different storage devices for sponges:

A beautiful stand for washing accessories. If only it would fit into the interior. Remember to rinse it periodically.
Hanging organizers or dryers for pedestals. They can hang on the doors. It can be found in the form of cups, where it will be convenient to fold sponges and other cleaning supplies.
Hanging organizers. The lightweight material from which they are made fits on the tap, and all items will easily fit into the pocket. Similar parts can be placed above the sink. It often has shallow holes for water to drain off.
Stationary items. It is easy to fit in them not only the detergent, but also the accessories to it.
Containers with suction cups. They can be fixed inside the sink and filled with the necessary items. Even though the sink is not the driest surface, the suction cups hold up well.
Stands that can be attached near the tap. The object remains visible, but excess liquid will drain directly into the sink.

Rags with a specific holder allow you to quickly remove liquid from the washcloth.

A selection of products for every taste and interior. The main thing remains: ensuring the storage of sponges and rags so that they can dry in them and ventilate.