The American Cleaning Institute (ACI)

Ask ACI: Sanitizing Your Sponge

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Q. 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. A better way is to soak the sponge for five minutes in a solution of one quart water to three tablespoons of chlorine bleach. Let the sponge air-dry. Replace your sponges every two to eight weeks, depending on how frequently and roughly they’re used. And use paper towels instead of sponges to mop up food spills.