Ask ACI: Sanitizing Your Sponge

How do I clean a kitchen sponge?

For a traditional sponge, you should be cleaning your sponge every few days and then replacing it every 1-2 weeks. Here's how:

• Soak the sponge for 5 minutes in a solution of one quart water to three tablespoons of chlorine bleach.
• Let the sponge air-dry.
• Be sure to wash your hands when you’re done.
• Replace your sponge every 2-3 weeks, depending on how frequently and roughly you use it.
• Use paper towels to mop up food spills rather than a sponge.

For a silicon sponge or dish brush, you can usually wash it in the top rack of the dishwasher and should do this weekly.

Can sponges be sanitized in the microwave?

Using the microwave can be risky. Unless the sponge is soaking wet, there is the possibility of starting a fire. In addition, the size of the sponge and the amount of power in the microwave are variables that influence how long you would need to zap it to kill germs. 

When should the kitchen sponge be replaced?

Sponges should be replaced at least every 1-2 weeks but should be replaced immediately if there's an odor that doesn't go away with cleaning or if it is getting damaged or discolored.

Can boiling water or vinegar disinfect a sponge?

Boiling water and vinegar are not disinfectants. Using a bleach solution is the best way to sanitize a sponge.

How can I get my sponge to last longer before it needs to be replaced?

Sanitize the sponge regularly and use paper towels instead of sponges to mop up food spills.

Updated: August 10, 2026