The quickest way to clean a dish sponge is to follow these steps:
Wet the sponge: Rinse the sponge under hot water to remove any loose debris or food particles.
Microwave method: Place the wet sponge in a microwave-safe bowl or dish. Fill the bowl with water, enough to submerge the sponge fully.
Microwave the sponge: Microwave the bowl with the sponge and water for approximately 1-2 minutes on high power. The heat from the microwave will help kill bacteria and sanitize the sponge.
Allow cooling: Be cautious when removing the bowl from the microwave, as it will be hot. Let the sponge cool down before handling it.
Squeeze excess water: Once the sponge is cool enough to handle, carefully remove it from the bowl and squeeze out any excess water.
Air dry: Place the sponge in an open, well-ventilated area to air dry completely. This will help prevent the growth of bacteria and ensure the sponge is ready for use again.
It's important to note that while microwaving can help sanitize the sponge, it may not eliminate all bacteria or remove built-up residue. For optimal cleanliness, it's recommended to replace the sponge regularly, especially if it becomes heavily soiled or starts to emit an unpleasant odor.