SPONGES – USES and CARE

SPONGES – USES and CARE – As seen on 3TV/Phoenix (Good Morning AZ) – Monday, February 26, 2018 – 8:38am

Abrasive sponges are made out of an abrasive material, such as plastic, and are very effective for cleaning grills, some outdoor furniture and cookware. Because there are different levels of toughness, be sure to read the packaging carefully to pick the right one for your surface areas. Wash them out in hot soapy water, rinse and dry.

Cellulose sponges are made from wood pulp, and the small holes inside them help to absorb liquid and hold it inside the sponge for easy cleaning. These sponges work well on dishes, counter tops, bathroom surfaces, and everyday spills. However, they can be difficult to fully rinse out so do not use them to wipe up raw egg or raw meat juices. A disposable paper towel is a better option in those cases. Clean every few day buy soaking in water, putting in a dish and microwaving for 1 minute. Toss every month. SUPER TIP: Buy 12 sponges in January, number 1-12 and use a new one at the start of each month.

Combo cellulose and abrasive sponges are popular and very useful sponges for everyday general cleaning. They will give you the benefits of both cellulose and abrasive sponges since they are two-sided. However, the abrasive side can come in different levels of toughness, and for everyday usage you want a non-scratch, low abrasive level. Wash in hot water and rinse. Spritz with white vinegar and allow to dry.

Dry sponges are made of a rubber mixture and are meant to be used dry. They are great to use on surfaces that cannot tolerate moisture and water. They are commonly used to clean soot from surfaces after a fire, such as, fireplace mantels, screens, bricks, curtains and carpet, and are great for removing pet hair from furniture and clothes. These are also good for wallpapered walls and fabric window coverings. Once the side of a dry sponge is completely covered with dirt, soot or animal hair, you simply slice that part of the sponge off and you have a fresh side to clean with or lauder it with detergent.

The Magic Eraser scrubbers have been known to work like magic for moms. This scrubber is water-activated, so after you wet it, you’re ready to start cleaning. It works well on many surfaces including scuffs, crayons and pencil marks on the walls, counter tops, and much more. There are different versions available for different cleaning needs, but they should never be used on your skin or really glossy surfaces, like the hood of your car. Allow the sponge to dry between uses. Throw away after several uses or when the eraser begins to disintegrate.

Steel Wool: When you think of steel wool, you immediately think of hard to remove stains and elbow grease. Steel wool is made of thin, metallic fibers interwoven together to create a sponge. There are two types of steel wool. The first is used for hard cleaning like floor scrubbing or removing rust on metal surfaces. The second is softer and is used to clean glass surfaces like windows or cleaning the kitchen sink. The best for gentle cleaning is marked “Extra Fine” of 0000. It is great for cleaning built up grease, baked on stains, and tough grime. Rinse steel wool pads after each use and put in a sealable plastic bag, label and toss in the freezer. This will keep it from degrading and rusting.

Sea sponges are a natural sponge that grows on the ocean’s floors. Because they are truly 100% natural, they are extremely earth-friendly, and great for multiple purposes, including bathing and cosmetics but are also great for cleaning of all kinds, such as, dish washing, bathing and exfoliation, and car washing. There are many different types of sea sponges, some more hard, some more soft, so make sure you find the level of softness that works for your cleaning job. To clean and disinfect add ¼ cup of white vinegar to a bowl with 2 cups of warm water. Soak the sponge for 2 hours, wring out and let dry. Don’t rinse.

Choosing the right Sponge for the Job – VIDEO