To help you do that, we searched high and low for the best dish sponges, evaluating them on the following criteria: material, design features, value, and dishwasher compatibility. We also included options you can buy in bulk so you can regularly replace this handy cleaning tool. Our top pick, the O-Cedar Multi-Use Scrunge, has a dual-sided design for versatile cleaning, and it doesn’t hold odors or scratch cookware. Here are the best dish sponges on the market. These sponges come in packs of four or six, and they’re a bit pricier than most of our other options. However, because they last a long time, you won’t have to replace them as often. According to the manufacturer, they last 20 percent longer than regular scrub sponges and should be replaced every 30 to 60 days. Since they are odor-resistant, they shouldn’t pick up any funky smells during that time frame. These cellulose sponges can be composted, which is great, but note that they are packaged in plastic. Price at time of publish: $11 These multipurpose sponges can also be used to clean sinks, stoves, bathroom fixtures, and other surfaces. Just be sure to test the scrubber to avoid any potential damage. When it comes to durability, these sponges get mixed reviews. Some reports say they fall apart really quickly–in less than a week in some cases. On the upside, the sponges are inexpensive, so replacing them isn’t a costly investment. They’re available in three colors–blue, green, and yellow—and you can choose from non-scratch or heavy-duty options. Price at time of publish: $12 The teardrop shape allows access to tight corners and makes it comfortable to hold. The sponge is small enough to fit into deep cups, and it’s safe to use on non-stick cookware and glass. It also has a built-in loop at one end so you can hang it up to dry. Best of all, this three-pack of sponges is shipped in eco-friendly, brown paper packaging to further reduce waste. Price at time of publish: $10 In the manufacturer’s lab tests, the Scrub Daddy has proven to resist odors for up to eight weeks. You can also run it through the dishwasher for a deep cleaning. It is safe to use on a variety of surfaces, including glass, cast iron, and non-stick cookware. Measuring one and a half inches thick, its unique texture allows you to clean the sides and depths of glassware simultaneously. We read some reports that the Scrub Daddy feels stiff and scratchy initially, but it softens up over time. Price at time of publish: $10 There are various ways to sanitize the cloths–you can throw them in the washing machine, heat them in the microwave, or run them through the dishwasher. The cloths come in packs of ten and cost significantly more than standard sponges, but they will last a lot longer. According to the manufacturer’s website, these sponges can be washed up to 300 times before you need to replace them, and our product tester, Deanna McCormack, vouches for their durability: “These last just as long as the non-natural cloths I’d been using, and they’re much better for the environment when I do have to toss them.” Our tester only notes a few potential drawbacks: The cloths get very stiff when they dry and might feel a bit slimy when they’re damp. Price at time of publish: $15 for Set of 4 The Scotch-Brite sponge is safe to use on non-coated cookware, and it can be used on a variety of other surfaces, including oven grates and concrete floors. The pointy corners come in handy for accessing hard-to-reach nooks and crannies. Even though the sponge is thick and absorbent, it’s malleable and easy to maneuver. Keep in mind that although the scrubbing fibers are made from 100 percent recycled content, the sponge is not recyclable at the end of its lifespan. Price at time of publish: $4 We found a few complaints that the pads start to discolor after scouring cruddy pans. However, throwing them in the dishwasher for a deep clean should restore their bright yellow coloring. They aren’t limited to the kitchen either. You can use them to clean bathrooms, carpets, and even cars. For easy cleaning, this sponge is both machine-washable and dryer-safe. It comes in a pack of six and is available in two sizes: small and large. Featuring an hourglass shape, this sponge fits nicely in your hand and is easy to maneuver. Price at time of publish: $26 Peachy Clean sponges are dishwasher-safe, making them a breeze to clean. Each cardboard box includes three scrubbers. This product was invented and patented, and is manufactured, by a family-run business in Georgia, and it derives its name from the Peach State. Price at time of publish: $7 For added convenience, the sponge heads are replaceable, so you don’t have to replace the entire brush when they wear out. The handle easily unscrews, so you can refill the soap container as needed. It also features a loop at the end, so you can hang it up to air dry, which is a great way to prevent odors from forming. This dishwand is compatible with all Scotch-Brite dishwand refills, including Greener Clean and non-scratch options, further enhancing its versatility. Price at time of publish: $7
Cellulose: Since cellulose sponges are made from plant-based fibers, they are usually more eco-friendly than other materials. When properly cared for, they are reusable for up to six months. They are also usually biodegradable and can be composted at the end of their lifespan. Microfiber: Microfiber sponges are made from synthetic materials such as polyester, polyamide, and polyurethane. They are effective at absorbing dirt, and they tend to last longer than sponges made from other materials.
Design Features
A dual-sided sponge provides more versatile cleaning options than a simple sponge made of one material. The softer side of a dual-sided sponge can be used on more delicate items, while the rougher side can tackle heavy-duty grease and grime. Other sponges, such as the Scrub Daddy, are specifically designed to get deep into cups and thoroughly clean utensils.
Amount
To determine which sponge offers the best value, consider the cost, and compare that with the amount in a package. You also need to factor in the lifespan of the sponge: Some last for a week or two, while others are reusable for up to six months or a year with proper care.
Dishwasher Compatibility
Some sponges are intended to go in the dishwasher, but others are not. You can refer to the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions to determine whether your sponge is dishwasher-safe. If it is not, you may be able to sanitize the sponge using a bleach mixture or full-strength vinegar solution. Proper sanitation will prevent odors and bacteria from forming, but it’s best to swap the sponge out in the time frame recommended by the manufacturer.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Sage McHugh. Sage has been writing about and testing cleaning products for The Spruce since 2019. For this roundup, she considered dozens of kitchen sponges, carefully evaluating the material, design, and cleaning ability of each product. She also took hundreds of customer reviews and write-ups from third-party websites into account. For expert insight on kitchen sponges, she interviewed Marilee Nelson, a cleaning expert, environmental consultant, and certified building biologist, and co-founder of Branch Basics. A bleach or vinegar soak is another effective way to kill bacteria on the sponge. You can soak the sponge in a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water for two minutes and then wring it out and let it air-dry. You can also soak it in pure vinegar for five minutes and then rinse and air-dry it. Marilee Nelson recommends the boiling-water method, which involves placing the sponge—cleaned of all food residues—in boiling water for five minutes. Afterward, you can dip it in cool water, twist the excess water out, and place it on a sponge holder with drainage holes.
