Sponges are heavy-duty workers that are used to clean up everything and are notorious for harboring germs. Despite how dirty sponges get, it’s very easy to clean them! It only takes a minute of your time. Read our quick and easy guide on how to clean a sponge.

Clean Sponges in the Dishwasher

This one hardly needs explaining. Just put the sponge in a secure place in the dishwasher and push start. The heat will kill the germs and leave it safe to use again.

Clean Sponges in the Microwave

Fill the sponge with water and set it on a microwaveable plate. (Do not squeeze the excess water out. Never put a dry sponge in the microwave.) Set the plate inside and select two minutes on the timer. Press start and let the microwave clean the sponge. Again, the heat will kill the germs. Once it’s finished, set the sponge aside to dry.

How to Clean a Cellulose Sponge

In between deep cleanings, take the sponge to a sink and clean with warm soapy water. Squeeze the sponge to ensure the soap cleans the middle. Rinse with warm water and squeeze to release all the water from the sponge. After you’ve removed as much water as possible, put your sponge somewhere it will be able to dry fully.

How to Clean a Nylon Sponge

Add 3/4 cup of bleach to a gallon of water in a bucket. Place the nylon sponge (or sponges) inside the bucket and wait five minutes before removing. Rinse the sponge thoroughly in clean water, squeezing and rotating the sponge to ensure all the bleach is being removed. Set the sponge in a place where it can air dry completely.

How to Clean a Metal Sponge

Metal sponges or steel wool pads are great for tough cleaning, but they can get pretty gross. Rinse out the metal sponge with warm soapy water. Rotate in the water to get all sides. Place the sponge in your dishwasher and run a full cycle with the rest of your dishware. This will sanitize and clean the sponge for you.

How to Clean a Sponge and Save

Cleaning your sponges keeps them sanitary, saves your home from the spread of germs, and prevents you from having to buy new sponges all the time. This is turn helps the environment and saves you money! Now that you know how to clean a sponge, see if you can buy new sponges every few months instead of every few weeks. In between deeper cleanings, rinse out sponges after every use to prevent lingering bacteria.