Brilio.net - Sponges are one of the mandatory equipment in the kitchen. Usually sponges are used to clean eating and cooking utensils. Because they are often used, sponges get dirty quickly . Sometimes the color of the sponge even turns brown over time.
If left alone, a dirty sponge can become a nest for bacteria. Not only that, dirty sponges also become easily torn and damaged when used. Therefore, make sure you wash your sponge regularly, OK?
A number of people deliberately soak sponges in baking soda solution. After soaking for a while, all the dirt on the sponge is gone without any residue. Without needing to scrub, rinse the sponge directly in running water. If so, the sponge can be used to wash dishes as usual.
But it's not just baking soda, it turns out there are other cleaning agents that can be used to wash dishwashing sponges. The method was demonstrated by Instagram user @annepermata. Even without baking soda, the dishwashing sponge looks optimally clean.
How to clean a dishwashing sponge.
At the beginning of the video, he shows the appearance of his dishwashing sponge. Because it is used frequently, the appearance of the sponge looks dirty. There are even food residues stuck to the bottom of the sponge.
photo: Instagram/@annepermata
Knowing this, this netizen immediately deep cleaned (washed) the dishwashing sponge. First, put the sponge in the container. Then pour hot water until it soaks all parts of the dishwashing sponge.
"This function is to kill bacteria, because dishwashing sponges are home to trillions of bacteria," he said, quoted by BrilioFood from Instagram @annepermata on Thursday (21/3).
photo: Instagram/@annepermata
Not only hot water, but this netizen also added one kitchen ingredient, namely table vinegar. Just add about 2-3 tablespoons of table vinegar to the water soaking in the dishwashing sponge. Not without reason, as reported by ejournal.poltekkes-denpasar.ac.id, the vinegar content in food can inhibit the growth of various types of bacteria.
photo: Instagram/@annepermata
After soaking for a while, squeeze then rinse the dishwashing sponge. The dishwashing sponge is also clean again. If this is the case, the dishwashing sponge can be used as usual. However, you need to pay attention, make sure the dishwashing sponge is dry after every use.
photo: Instagram/@annepermata
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Tricks so that your dishwashing sponge doesn't smell bad.
To prevent your dishwashing sponge from smelling, here are some tricks you can try:
1. Rinse well after every use.
Make sure to wash the sponge with clean water and squeeze it well after each use. This will help remove detergent residue and food particles that can cause odors.
2. Soak in a bacteria-killing solution.
Occasionally, soak a sponge in a solution of warm water with a little bleach or white vinegar. This solution will kill bacteria that can cause odors. Make sure to rinse the sponge with clean water afterward.
3. Dry the sponge well.
After washing, make sure to dry the sponge well. You can place it in an open, ventilated area or use a drying rack. Wet or damp sponges can become a breeding ground for bacteria, which in turn can cause odors.
4. Change the sponge regularly.
Dishwashing sponges should be replaced regularly, about once a week or more often if used frequently. Old or worn sponges are more likely to harbor bacteria and produce odors.
5. Use the sponge gently.
Avoid using a dishwashing sponge to clean rough or gritty surfaces because it can wear out the sponge more quickly and be more difficult to clean.
By following the tips above regularly, you can help keep your dishwashing sponge clean and free from unwanted odors.