What Causes the Smell of a Kitchen Sponge?

Sponges can harbor bacteria.

Kitchen sponges are used to wash dishes, wipe up spills and clean the table. Considering all the organic substances a sponge comes in contact with, it's no surprise that it's often the worst-smelling item in the kitchen.

Smell

Smells from kitchen sponges mean bacteria is growing there. Sponges that smell are not only unpleasant, but potentially dangerous. Don't use a smelly sponge to wipe down tables, counters or other kitchen items because you will simply be spreading bacteria throughout the room.

Removal

Kill the bacteria to remove the smell in a kitchen sponge. This can be done by washing the sponge in a washing machine or dishwasher with hot water, sanitizing it in diluted bleach or microwaving a damp sponge for 60 seconds.

Washing

Wash and rinse out kitchen sponges with hot, soapy water after every use. Place the sponge in a holder where it can dry to limit bacterial growth.

Prevention/Solution

Have several sponges available for kitchen use so that they can be washed without causing inconvenience. Throw away sponges that still appear dirty after washing and sponges that begin disintegrating. Use paper towels and other disposable cleaning materials whenever possible.

Warning

Avoid using your kitchen sponge to wipe up raw eggs, meat juice and other food items that typically have high levels of harmful bacteria. If you must use your sponge for such a purpose, wash and disinfect it immediately afterward.

References

• University of Illinois Extension: Bacteria Lurks in Unexpected Kitchen Spots
• Oregon State Extension: Kitchen Clean-Up

Resources

• Wisconsin Department of Health Services: Safe Food Handling Techniques