The following is a quick reference guide on how frequently you should replace or clean the tools you use for cleaning your dishes.

Sponge

The kitchen sponge is one of the worst culprits in terms of bacteria buildup. Determining when your sponges should be replaced will depend on how frequently you use them for washing dishes. If you wash dishes once a day at least, then your sponge should be replaced once a month at least.

Consistent with this frequency, you should replace your sponges after about 30 uses. In order to keep your sponges clean in between replacement, place the sponge inside the dishwasher along with your dishes every time you run the dishwasher. Or sponges can be washed in bleach and hot water to kill residual bacteria if you don’t have a dishwasher.

Cloth

You should also replace your dishcloths or clothes after around 30 uses or every month. Sponges are frequently thought to be the most susceptible to bacteria. However, dishcloths are as bad in this department. Both of them share a similarly warm and moist environment that is ideal for the growth of bacteria.

There is no specific hygienic reason why you should use a dishcloth instead of a sponge, although cleaning a dishcloth is easier than replacing a sponge. You can just put your dishcloths in your washing machine to clean them.

For the best results, use hot water and bleach. Bacteria can also be eliminated via heat exposure by putting your dishcloths out in the sun or running them through your dryer to dry them.

Brush

Out of all of the dishwashing tools that we are discussing, the most hygienic option is actually brushes. It is easier to clean brushes and they dry faster, which makes them less appealing for bacteria. You can clean them by putting them in the dishwasher, as long as they are dishwasher-safe models.

The bristles on the brush can be soaked in vinegar for a few hours and then rinsed off using hot water. That will help to loosen up any debris that is still remaining and kill any bacteria that is left as well. If necessary, you might need to use a fork to completely remove any remaining particles.  

Cleaning your cleaning supplies

If you apply these basic cleaning techniques and replace your dishwashing tools based on the advice we have given to you it will result in a healthier and happier kitchen environment.

If you hire a professional house cleaning service, make sure the tools that they use to clean your home are new and clean for every client. Call us today!