Simply put, usually, YES! And you should! Follow our simple guide to microwave sponges safely.
Sponges often hold onto some of the bacteria they scrub away, and microwaving is a great way to keep them clean!
Materials: Safe and Unsafe Sponge Types
Do NOT Microwave:
- Sponges with any metal or steel-wool components! Metal components are never microwave-safe.
Do Microwave:
- “Cellulose” (porous, with visible holes) sponges are made of foam components or plant fibers.
- Scrubs (those with one uniform soft and one rough side) are also made of foam/plant material.
- Foam/plastic composite sponges with plastic wool-like fibers
How To:
- Briefly rinse your sponge before microwaving, using only water, not soap or a cleaning solution.
- Make sure your sponge is completely saturated in water, not dry!
- Dry sponges may burn, be sure yours is damp before microwaving!
How Long:
- Most sponges will be clean and dry within one minute, less for higher power microwaves.
- Dry/clean time also depends on the type and size of sponge:
- Cellulose/more porous sponges may take up to 2 minutes
- Thinner/scrub sponges should take a maximum of 1 minute
- If thick steam is visible or obscuring the microwave, this is a good indicator that your sponge is ready to be removed!
Remember: use caution when removing the sponge or let it sit; it will be hot!
Use your microwave to keep your sponges squeaky clean & sanitary.
We hope you’ve soaked up a tip or two for safely microwaving your sponges.
If you are looking for ways to keep your microwave clean, read our reviews of the best microwave cleaners.
Sources:
https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning/a18731/how-to-clean-a-sponge/
https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2017/09/11/548926054/can-you-really-not-clean-your-kitchen-sponge
