The Super Smart Kitchen Sponge Trick We Wish We’d Known About Sooner

Kitchen sink with sponge and spray bottle

There’s a debate going on in kitchens, and it’s not about what’s for dinner. In this edition of “Kitchen Tricks We Wish We’d Known About Sooner,” kitchen sponges are trending again. When it comes to kitchen hacks and household tips, kitchen sponges often go overlooked. People like me just buy them, use them and toss them.

For a more practical and sustainable kitchen, online users are embracing some old-school resourceful wisdom (also dubbed “grandma-style”) and cutting kitchen sponges in half to extend their life. The idea is that this technique reduces waste and saves money. So, does it work? Keep reading to find out if this hack is a winner for your kitchen.

Related: The Super Smart Viral Paper Towel Trick We Wish We’d Known About Sooner

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Why Should You Cut Your Kitchen Sponges in Half?

It's really pretty simple. Cutting your sponges in half gives you two sponges for the price of one. Also, many people find that a half-size sponge is large enough to do all of the tasks you'd typically use it for, including washing dishes and wiping down counters.

Is it revolutionary? No, but it’s a simple act (literally just using sharp scissors to cut it in half). In the long run, it can reduce the number of new sponges that you need to buy. And – bonus! – you’re helping the environment by reducing the amount of waste in landfills.

From a convenience perspective, this trick can help make cleanup a bit more versatile. Instead of using one sponge for dishes and wiping down your countertop, you can use the two halves for different cleanup jobs like scrubbing the stove with a deep cleaner and the other half for daily dishes.

Related: The Part of Your Microwave You’re Probably Not Cleaning

Here Are My Thoughts on the Kitchen Sponge Trick

I’m all for saving money on everyday items, but if you’re going to try this hack, keep a few things in mind.

  • Buy large, quality kitchen sponges (sorry, Dollar Tree).

  • If you have large hands, this trick may not work for you.

  • Opt for washable microfiber sponges if you’re not interested in cutting those cellulose or polyester sponges.

  • Some creators have suggested slicing Scrub Daddy sponges in half horizontally with a knife, so you don't lose the cute smiley face. Keep in mind that Scrub Daddy in particular sells a thinner version of their sponge, so you don't need to DIY it.

  • Regardless of which option is right for you, experts recommend replacing your kitchen sponge every 1 to 2 weeks or if they start to smell.

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Up next: How to Make Perfectly Crunchy Bacon in the Oven

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