5 Hacks To Make Your Sponges Last Longer

Between scrubbing down pots and picking up spills and splatters, sponges can take a beating. Not only that, since they are always exposed to humidity—they instantly become a hot bed for germs, too. If we had our way, we'd replace them every day!

However, switching them out often can be wasteful and expensive. To make them last longer (and save you money in the long run!), here are a few helpful hacks you can try: 

1. Use essential oils to disinfect sans chemicals.

If your sponges need disinfecting, rinse them with a few drops of essential oil. This gives your sponges a fresh scent (goodbye, mustiness!), plus it also zaps out germs. We find the lemon, grapefruit and lime oils work the best.

2. Wring them out well. 

Once you're done washing the dishes or cleaning the kitchen counters, make sure to wring it until it's damp. Get every last drop of water out so mildew and germs don’t multiply. You can also leave it to dry overnight before using it again. 

3. Behold the power of bleach.

If you don't trust the germ-killing powers of heat or soap, you can try bleach. Fill a bowl with one part bleach plus one part soap and let the sponges soak. Use gloves when rinsing and wringing out the sponges. Hang to dry and use when ready.

4. Give them a spin in the wash. 

Don't be afraid to give your sponges a spin in the washing machine. Put them in a netted bag (an old pillowcase works, too!), toss the bag in during your next machine cycle and wash as you would your delicates. Avoid the dryer though and let them air dry instead. 

5. Snip away! 

Chances are, you don’t need an entire sponge. You could probably get away with half of a sponge when it comes to scrubbing your sink, counters, and plates. Give it a try and start snipping. It's like getting two sponges in one. 

PHOTOS and SOURCES: eatright.org (Main Photo), The Homespun Hydrangea—7 Sponge Hacks: How To Make Sponges Last Longer and Smart Money Mom—Makes Sponges Last Longer: 5 Tips