### How to Wash a Dish Sponge in the Washing Machine
1. **Gather Your Sponges**
You can clean more than one at a time. Toss in dish sponges, scrub brushes with soft bristles, and even reusable cleaning cloths.
2. **Place in a Laundry Bag (Optional)**
To prevent damage or getting lost in the drum, place sponges in a mesh laundry bag. This is especially helpful for smaller or delicate items.
3. **Set the Washing Machine**
Use a **hot water cycle** with a bit of **regular detergent**. Hot water helps kill bacteria more effectively.
4. **Add Towels or Cleaning Rags**
Wash your sponges with a load of cleaning rags or old towels — items you don’t mind getting a bit grubbier. This keeps the cycle balanced and improves agitation.
5. **Air Dry Thoroughly**
After washing, **let your sponges air dry completely**. Do not store them damp, as this invites bacteria to return quickly. Avoid putting them in the dryer unless the manufacturer explicitly states it’s safe.
### Bonus Tip: Microwave Sanitizing
For a quick disinfecting boost between machine washes, microwave your damp sponge for 1–2 minutes (never dry or with metal components!). This can kill most bacteria — but be cautious and monitor closely to avoid overheating or fires.
### Why This Works
Washing your dish sponge in the machine helps:
* **Eliminate bacteria and odors**
* **Extend the sponge’s lifespan**
* **Reduce kitchen waste**
* **Save money on frequent replacements**
### Final Thoughts
It’s a small kitchen hack with big benefits. Next time you’re doing laundry, don’t forget to toss in your dish sponge. This simple trick can keep your kitchen cleaner, healthier, and fresher — all with minimal effort.
Who knew your washing machine had this extra magic up its sleeve?
