Sponges are a common kitchen tool to clean our kitchen. However, they are super dirty. After being used for a long time, bacteria and other microorganisms may grow and increase the risk of several health issues. Fortunately, there are several ways to help remove germs and keep your sponges lasting longer. Microwaving is one of these methods. In this article, we will find out whether this option really works and also show you some other cleaning tips.
Can Microwaving a Sponge Actually Kill Germs?
The answer is yes. A study from the U.S. Department of Agriculture has shown that microwaving sponges may actually eliminate up to 99 percent of living germs and bacteria. This method is a bit more effective than cleaning sponges with a dishwasher. The radio frequency waves in microwaves may provide both non-heat and heat effects, which causes the water molecules inside the cell of bacteria to vibrate. As a result, the friction linked to this vibration may increase heat levels and kill these microorganisms. Keep in mind the effectiveness can vary, depending on the heating setting of the microwave. Some models may need more time or wattage to eliminate bacteria sufficiently. [1]
