Review of dishwashing sponges: varieties, selection criteria, prices, rules of use

Despite the fact that many modern kitchens are equipped with dishwashers, every housewife still buys sponges for washing dishes.

Considering how many varieties are now produced, you can get confused and make the wrong choice.

But a good sponge should not scratch thin glass, save time and make the dishwashing process easy, fast, and enjoyable.

What are they?

The range of dish sponges is growing every year. Therefore, it is good to have several varieties of them in the kitchen at once, since situations and utensils are different. But what material should you choose?

Foam rubber

Considered the most common. The first models were produced almost a hundred years ago (in 1937). Polyurethane foam is used for production; according to technology, it should consist of 85% air.

Advantages:

1. Universal (suitable for any dishes).
2. They go well with any detergents, and even with laundry soap.
3. They are characterized by a porous, homogeneous structure, due to which abundant foam is created, and water is quickly and easily absorbed in large quantities.
4. Low cost.

Among the disadvantages, it is worth noting that manufacturers of foam sponges do not rely on high quality. Their average service life is 2-3 weeks, and this is with careful use, that is, if you only wash dishes. Using it to clean other surfaces will shorten its service life.

It is assumed that the hard side is for washing dishes with detergents, and the soft side is for rinsing with water. Due to their hard side, such sponges are often used for washing many other surfaces (glass, tiles, bathtubs, sinks, furniture, stoves).

Pulp

They are used for washing not only any dishes, but also sinks and tiles. Their special structure contributes to the antibacterial effect. As in the production of cellulose wipes, the base is natural raw materials, so these sponges are environmentally friendly and safe.

When the cellulose sponge does not come into contact with water, it dries quickly, as a result of which bacteria and fungi do not accumulate in it. But to ensure that it always remains dry after use, a special stand is needed for storage.

The disadvantage of cellulose products is that constant use leads to rapid wear.

Abrasive

Thanks to their rigid structure, they are able to clean heavily soiled dishes. Also used for cleaning bathtubs, household appliances, tiles.

Mineral solids, resin (or glue) and synthetic fibers are used for production.The result is a rather hard material, so abrasive sponges are not used for all types of dishes (mainly enamel coatings, frying pans, cauldrons). Categorically not suitable for dishes that can be damaged or scratched.

It is recommended to wash in a circular motion; the result will be faster and more effective.

Melamine

They are called “miracle sponges”; in addition to dishes, they are capable of removing traces of stickers, stains on clothes and leather products, paint and ink from hands. Acts like an eraser, erasing any dirt.

Economical, as it is used without additional detergents and cleaning agents. Just wet the sponge in cold water and its fibers will be completely saturated with liquid.

However, the nitrogen-rich melamine used to make sponges contains hazardous components (formaldehyde, noniferol), and poses a health hazard. The smallest particles can remain on the dishes after washing and enter the body along with food. Therefore, constant use is not advisable, and then only for pots on the outside. Read more Here.

Metal

They do an excellent job of removing stubborn dirt, dried food debris and burnt fat. Ideal for cleaning cauldrons, cast iron cookware, grill grates. They have a long service life. The difference between metal jaws is in the types of weaving. Products made from thicker wire are suitable for heavily soiled dishes.

These sponges have a number of disadvantages:

• are made from thin wire, which during use becomes clogged with fats and food debris;
• if you carefully scrub the dishes, they can scratch them - not suitable for ceramic, enameled and non-stick coated products;
• Hands may be injured during use.

After use, it is recommended to pour boiling water over the sponge to kill bacteria. Read more about metal jaws Here.

Plastic

Considered an alternative to metal sponges. They clean dishes well from dried food residues and burnt fat, without scratching the surface. Suitable for any dishes. They differ in the degree of rigidity - the larger the thread, the better the surface will be cleaned.

Among the disadvantages:

1. Poor contact with detergents. There are holes between the plastic fibers, and the product simply slips through them.
2. Wear quickly. If plastic threads become deformed, it is necessary to replace the sponge with a new one.

Microfiber

An ideal option for people with allergies, since the use of microfiber does not require a large amount of detergent (a couple of drops is enough). These washcloths have a long service life and keep their shape perfectly.

Virtually no disadvantages, only during prolonged use do they begin to crumble. As soon as crumbling crumbs become noticeable, the microfiber should be replaced with a new one.

Microfiber fibers absorb dirt and grease well, so it is recommended to wash the sponge after each use.

Silicone

The base is soft food-grade silicone, which practically does not accumulate bacteria.. In addition to dishes, silicone sponges are used for washing vegetables and cleaning any kitchen and bathroom surfaces (tiles, countertops, sinks).

But they can't handle heavily soiled pots and pans. When in contact with soap suds, the sponge often slips out of your hands, so the process of washing dishes is longer and more difficult. Also among the disadvantages is the high consumption of detergent.

There are also clear advantages.They have a long service life. They do not deform during use. Read more Here.

Jute

They are made from natural dense fiber, obtained from the herbaceous plant jute. These sponges dry quickly in room conditions and wash dishes perfectly. But detergent does not foam well on them (compared to foam products).

An alternative to jute are washcloths made from agave palm, brushes with coconut fibers and native Russian materials - bast and hemp. For preventive purposes, it is recommended to scald sponges with boiling water once a week.

Bamboo

The base is bamboo natural fiber. Environmentally friendly and clean material, without chemical impurities and additives, ensures that bamboo sponges do not cause allergies or irritation on the skin of the hands.

They do an excellent job of removing dried food residues and greasy surfaces even in cold water; they can be used without detergents. The special structure of the material means that dirt, grease and odors are not absorbed into it, so bamboo washcloths can be used for a long time.

The only negative is that, due to the soft structure, products made from bamboo fiber quickly lose their presentation.

He will tell you what sponges for washing dishes are made of. this article why they are multi-colored - this.

How to choose?

When it comes to shape, the most popular sponges are rectangular.. They are convenient to hold in your hand and store. To wash deep dishes or bowls, round sponges are suitable. Manufacturers will use any other forms purely from an aesthetic point of view. For example, silicone sponges are produced in the form of fruits, stars, and hearts. Functionality does not depend on this; they simply become a decoration of the kitchen interior.

When buying them, you should pay attention to the following points:

1. Degree of elasticity. Products with a denser structure will last longer and retain their appearance.
2. Strength of connection between foam rubber and abrasive fabric. It is difficult to determine visually, but you can try to bend the tight edge. If it bends easily, then such a sponge will soon become unusable.

It is worth giving preference to cellulose sponges. They have an excellent combination of price and quality, and have a longer service life than foam ones. To wash glassware until it shines without streaks, it is advisable to purchase sponges made from natural plant fibers.

For cauldrons, pots and pans, it is better to buy plastic or metal or microfiber sponge. Among metal ones, it is better to choose those made from shavings; they are easy to use and not so abrasive.

Those who experience irritation or an allergic reaction on their skin after contact with detergents should buy sponges with plastic handles.

TOP 7 best products: photos, reviews, how much they cost

Despite the emergence of innovative sponges for washing dishes, most housewives prefer foam products with an abrasive surface.

Kitchenette TEFLON

Sold in vacuum packaging. They have a non-standard hexagonal shape. One side has springy bristles, which makes it easy to wash dried-on food residues on dishes. The same side is used for cleaning pans and pots.

The sponges are pleasant to the touch and dry quickly. They do not scratch the surface, making them suitable for washing Teflon.Package: 3 pcs. Price: from 40 rub.

Every day

These inexpensive, effective dishwashing products are... popular brand of the Auchan store. The size of the sponges is 8x5x2.5 (other sizes may be available). They fit comfortably in the hand and are comfortable and easy to work with.

A soft foam layer for delicate washing, each sponge has a different color. Using glue, an abrasive layer is attached to it, intended for heavy contamination. Package: 5 pcs. Price: from 25 rub.

Guten Tag for Teflon and glass ceramics

Rectangular jaws are foam rubber placed in a case, which is made of metallized polypropylene thread. Easy to use, designed for both delicate dishwashing and removing heavy stains.

Thanks to the foam structure, which produces a lot of foam, you can use detergent economically. Package: 2 pcs. Price: from 40 rub.

Polyurethane foam Grifon

Ideally cleans the surface of Teflon cookwarewithout damaging the non-stick coating. The composite layer copes with any dirt without leaving scratches. The polyurethane foam base promotes abundant foaming.

The sponges perfectly absorb moisture and are comfortable to use, hygienic, and can be easily washed with water after use. Package: 1 pc. Price: from 25 rub.

Paclan

These sponges made from abrasive sheets of varying hardness. They are produced in different color categories, each of which indicates a certain hardness - from gentle to hard (yellow, red, blue, green).

Rectangular shape. Designed for heavy soiling. They serve for a long time, while maintaining the original quality. Package: 3 pcs. Price: from 60 rub.

Freken Bock

Base – high quality elastic foam, does not crumble when dry.Its wavy surface on one side makes it easy to wash away dirt on dishes of any shape and in hard-to-reach places. On the other side of the sponge, a wear-resistant fiber is securely attached to the adhesive for washing off difficult stains.

Rectangular shape, size 9x6.5x2.5. Packaging: 10 pcs. Price: from 55 rub.

How to use?

Even a child can use sponges, but this matter also has its own nuances. One of them is the correct storage location.

It is advisable to purchase sponges for storing special devices:

• stands that attach directly to the water tap;
• holders with suction cups;
• stationary or hanging organizers;
• beautiful stands installed on the sink or shelves.

The main thing is that the devices have holes to ensure drying and ventilation for the sponges. Read more about storing sponges in this article.

The second important factor is service life.. On the Internet you can find a bunch of recommendations regarding its extension. Some boil dish sponges, others soak them in a solution of chlorine or vinegar, and others heat them in microwaves. But still, replacing with a new one is the safest option for your own health.

The most popular foam sponges are recommended to be changed every week. The service life of washcloths made from eco-friendly materials is much longer - 1-2 months, because, unlike a synthetic environment, bacteria do not multiply so quickly in an organic environment.

Each housewife can herself reduce or increase this period depending on how often the sponge is used and how many dishes she washes daily.

Understand that it’s time to replace the washcloth, possible based on the following criteria:

• the appearance of an unpleasant odor;
• dirty condition that cannot be washed;
• does not perform its functions well.

You can find out how often to change your dishwashing sponge here.

The dangers of kitchen sponges

The porous material of dishwashing sponges (whether microfiber or foam rubber) is very convenient, holds foam perfectly, but at the same time poses a danger to the human body.

Already a week after use, sponges accumulate a huge amount of bacteria., and even such dangerous ones as staphylococcus, salmonella, which are then transferred to all contact surfaces (countertop, dishes, sink).

Employees of Rospotrebnadzor made a statement that more than 70% of the bacteria contained in the sponge cause acute infectious intestinal diseases. And American scientists discovered during tests that one sponge can contain hundreds of times more bacteria than the rim of a toilet bowl.

So sometimes intoxication, malaise, vomiting, upset stomach, diarrhea or abdominal pain can be a consequence of the usual use of kitchen sponges.

What to wash dishes with instead of sponges?

The best resistance to kitchen sponges, as breeding grounds for bacteria - this is a dishwasher. The dishes in it go through a stage of washing with water and special detergents, and then hot drying, which will not allow bacteria to settle.

If you don't have a dishwasher, you can use brushes with artificial or natural bristles. They are especially convenient for washing pots and other large dishes. Thanks to the handle on the brush, hand contact with detergents is minimized, which also allows you to maintain your manicure.

After use, gauze should be washed with laundry soap and dried as often as possible. And when it starts to spread, just throw it away and replace it with a new one.

Tips for use

To protect yourself and your household from bacteria and the infectious diseases they cause, You should listen to simple but very effective advice:

1. Wash dishes immediately after eating to reduce the risk of bacteria growing and growing.
2. For foam sponges, use each side depending on how dirty the dishes are.

   Which side should I wash? If these are plates for which you will only need detergent and hot water, then use the soft side.

   Pans, pots, and burnt dishes should be cleaned with the hard side.

3. After using detergents, be sure to rinse the dishes with hot water and then wipe dry with a towel.
4. Do not forget to regularly clean the sink and the sink around it, but it is advisable to have a separate sponge for this.
5. At the end of the day, for disinfection purposes, you can hold the sponge in a saline solution for 15-20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with hot water.
6. After the end of their service life, eco-activists recommend burning or burying sponges made from natural materials in the ground (thanks to their rapid decomposition, they will even bring some benefit to the soil).

Conclusion

All sponges considered have their advantages and disadvantages. Which one to choose for daily use is a personal matter for each housewife. But still, kitchen sponges are not a luxury, so use several varieties at once.

Make it a rule: have a pack of foam sponges in your kitchen for washing glass and porcelain dishes; abrasive for heavy dirt; metal or plastic for pots and pans.