Yoru most popular kitchen cleaning item is your kitchen sponge.
Though we can pick them up for cheap on clearance at Fry’s (see HERE and HERE), they should be cleaned and sanitized every 2-3 days… most folks, I’m sure, don’t realize that ;)
I sanitize mine every single day – it’s one thing I’m paranoid about….. so this is just a reminder for you!
::: Throw it in the washer with your towels and air dry
::: Bleach – you want to use only 10% bleach to 90% water. Soak for 10-15 minutes and wring out….. then air dry.
::: Boil in Water for 5 minutes – cool, and wring out water and let air dry (most effective)
::: Wash in the dishwasher – top rack. I prefer the washer, I’m not a fan of the DISH washer as I’d rather wash by hand.. I feel like I do a better job. But — if you go this route, remember that the hot water expels the bacteria. Make sure you air dry after wringing out.
The main train of thought in keeping your sponge as clean as possible is to keep it DRY.
After you use it, wring it out… make sure you put it in a place that can dry. Bacteria thrives on moist surfaces, and can only live for a very short period of time on dry surfaces. Make sure you sanitize them every 2-3 days.. get in the habit of throwing it in the dishwasher when you wash your dishes.
I usually do mine right before bed – when I clean the rest of the house, and let them dry overnight for the morning.
Another way, which is what I do is microwave it for 2 minutes.
Wow, I just boiled all the sponges in my house. some were stinky and I was planning to throw them out, but five minutes in boiling water and they smell fresh again. Thanks!!
I zap mine in the microwave