KITCHEN SPONGE

One of the most important tools of your daily household routine could be harming you more than you ever imagined. Here are some things to take stock of before it is too late.

What It Is Made From?

Using a sponge made from polyurethane foam - usually bright yellow with a layer of plastic scourer attached - is harmful to the environment as they do not break down in landfill once they have been thrown away. Ironically, they do not last very long in a useful state before they need replacing.

A better alternative is a cellulose sponge which is made from natural plant or wood fibres, are usually more robust than the polyurethane version and will decompose more readily as waste.

It is important to note that even fabric-type cleaning cloths have tiny micro-plastics in them which new studies show have been found to enter not only the seafood we eat but our own bodies too, via our food and even the water we drink.

It Contributes To The Spread Of Germs In Your House.

Your kitchen sponge needs to be cleaned regularly and rigorously in order to stem the growth of bacteria within its many fibres and layers. During the course of each day, it will pick up and redistribute germs and bacteria to all areas of your kitchen surfaces - bench-tops, bins and fridge doors.

How Often You Should Clean It?

Since it turns out that your kitchen is more likely to harbour bacteria than your bathroom, keeping things hygienic in the kitchen is almost a full time job and your sponge is one of the worst offenders. A daily intensive clean is recommended with a good soak.

How To Clean It?

If you think it is enough to zap your sponge in the microwave or pour a jug of boiling water over it to kill the bacteria lurking in its hidden depths, think again. According to a report, these methods can reduce bacteria by up to 60% but does not eliminate the presence of bacteria in your sponge. A soak in a solution of bleach can further reduce the presence of bacteria.

How Often You Should Replace It?

Once a week is the recommended frequency, though once a month at the outside. This is where the tricky bit comes in as it can become expensive - particularly if you are investing in cellulose sponges with the environment in mind. Alternatively, try swapping to an eco-friendly alternative like the hand-knitted dishcloths, which can be washed with the rest of your laundry load and hung in the sun to kill bacteria.

You Can Reuse It For Less Sanitary Tasks.

Cut the corner off a sponge that has done its time in the kitchen. This is a visual reminder of it being downgraded to grubbier tasks such as outdoor and heavy-duty cleaning tasks where it would not come into contact with food preparation areas.

As usual, we remind you to take your Memo Plus Gold daily. It will help to keep you alert and mentally sharp. For more information or to order for Memo Plus Gold, please visit : https://oze.my.