by Glenore Weal

Created on: February 22, 2010

Each time you wash your dishes, dry them with a dishcloth, or wipe down your kichen counter with a sponge, the potential for exposing your household to E. coli and other nasty germs is quite high.  Many people believe that the hot, soapy water they use to wash their dishes is enough to kill off bacteria and would be surprised to learn that that is not enough.   Most often, sponges and scrubbers are left beside the sink to air-dry.   Replacing old sponges with new is helpful but most often they are not replaced until they are worn or develop a smell.   The problem is that by that time, it is likely that bacteria and germs have greatly multiplied since the best environment for bacteria to grow is warm, wet and dark.   Sponges have small nooks and crannies for food particles to become lodged in and although you may rinse your sponges when you’re done washing the dishes, or do your best to squeeze them dry, they are still moist enough to create a bacteria-friendly environment. A recent study published by the Journal of Environmental Health advised that the best way to protect your family is to nuke your sponges, dishcloths and plastic scrubbers in your microwave.  Here’s how:

1.Make sure that the scrubbers have no metal in the handle before putting them in the microwave.

2. Sponges, scrubbers and dishcloths should be placed in the microwave wet.

3.Set the microwave to two minutes on high.  Two to three minutes has been shown to kill even the most resistant bacteria.

4. Remove the sponges, scrubbers, and dishcloths with tongs and place them on a clean surface, disinfected with any household cleaner.  They will be very hot to the touch so it’s best to wait until they have cooled before you touch them with your hands.

 t is recommended that you do this at least once a week and preferably three to four times a week.  As soon as you finish cooking or washing your dishes, throw your scrubbers and sponges in the microwave while you take care of other things.   If you are already in the habit of using household cleaners to disinfect your kitchen and bathroom surfaces, this is just one more way for you to not only protect you and your family from potentially dangerous illnesses and there are other benefits as well.   You will be saving money by replacing your sponges and scrubbers less often and will also be helping the environment by reusing what you already have for as long as possible.

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