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2. Soak the Sponge
Place your dirty sponge into the salt and vinegar solution. Let the sponge soak in the mixture for 10–15 minutes. This soaking time allows the vinegar to break down grease and grime while the salt helps scrub away dirt from the sponge’s surface.
3. Rinse and Squeeze
After soaking, remove the sponge from the solution. Rinse it thoroughly under cold water to remove any leftover vinegar and salt. Gently squeeze the sponge to get rid of excess moisture.
4. Dry the Sponge
Place the sponge in a well-ventilated area to dry completely. Ideally, let it air dry, as this helps prevent mold and bacteria growth. You can also place it on top of a drying rack to speed up the process.
✨ Extra Tips to Keep Your Sponges Clean and Fresh
While the salt and vinegar method is a great way to extend the life of your sponges, there are other tips and tricks you can use to keep them fresh for longer:
- Microwave Method: Once a week, dampen your sponge, then microwave it on high for about 1–2 minutes (be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning). The heat will kill bacteria and refresh the sponge. Just make sure the sponge is damp and not dry, as a dry sponge can catch fire.
- Avoid Soaking for Too Long: Don’t leave your sponges soaking in a wet environment for too long, as this can promote mold growth. After cleaning with salt and vinegar, make sure to dry your sponge thoroughly before storing it.
- Store in a Dry Place: Make sure to store your sponge in a dry, ventilated area when not in use. You can even hang it on a hook to ensure air circulation. This helps prevent bacteria and mold from forming.
- Swap Out Old Sponges: While this method will prolong the life of your sponge, eventually, sponges do wear out. Make sure to replace them when they start falling apart, even if they’ve been cleaned.
🤑 Save Money and the Environment
By using salt and vinegar to refresh your dish sponges, you’ll not only save money by cutting down on the number of sponges you need to buy, but you’ll also reduce waste and make your kitchen more eco-friendly. You’re making a small change with a big impact on both your wallet and the environment.
🌱 Conclusion
There’s no need to constantly toss out your dish sponges and waste money when you can effortlessly clean and refresh them using the natural power of salt and vinegar. This simple, cost-effective trick will help keep your sponges fresh, extend their lifespan, and prevent you from spending more than necessary.
Try it out next time your sponges start to smell or look grimy, and see the difference for yourself. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a clean sponge ready to tackle your next batch of dishes—without the unnecessary expense.
Have you tried using salt and vinegar on your dish sponges? What other clever household hacks do you swear by? Let us know in the comments!
