The Icy Owl

Using a Sponge

Is using a sponge all as simple as it appears? Perhaps it's not.

First, you must get the sponge wet. Place the sponge under running water and allow the sponge to soak up water and swell. Gently squeeze the sponge to remove excess water until the sponge is damp and pliable. It amazes me that some people will pick up a dry sponge and expect it to function. It won't do much at all, and using a sponge in its dry form will damage the sponge and drastically reduce its useful life.

Next you will take the wet sponge in hand and wipe up your mess of choice. If you have a spill that needs to be quickly cleaned up and your sponge is dry, your best choice is to use a cloth or paper towel to do the initial cleaning. Then once your sponge is ready, use it to finish the job.

If you have a stain on a countertop, you will need a scouring cleanser that contains bleach such as Ajax or Comet. Sprinkle a little of the cleanser on the stain and rub with your damp sponge. Rinse the sponge and wipe up the excess cleanser. The stain should be gone but if not, repeat the procedure.

Caring for your sponge

Here are a few basic ways to take care of your sponges:

• Always use the sponge in a moist condition. It doesn't have to be dripping wet. This helps to keep the sponge from breaking apart.
• Always thoroughly rinse and wring out a sponge when you're done using it. Sponges can develop a nasty odor or even get stained if not rinsed out. Not a pleasant thing to have happen.
• You can clean up a sponge by placing it in boiling water that has had some sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) added to it.