Why do Europeans cut off the corner of their dishwashing sponge?

Sometimes we forget that maintaining hygiene and cleanliness in the kitchen is a little different than in other rooms. And hygiene in this place is very important. But our mentality is such that not every Russian housewife can throw away a kitchen sponge after a week of use: “How? Isn’t it still completely new?” And it turns out that most women use kitchen sponges incorrectly, harming their cutlery and health. To avoid this, but get the most out of your kitchen equipment, you can follow the example of European housewives.

Why do you cut off the corner of the sponge?

In European homes, kitchen sponges with corners cut off are often seen, although they are produced in a rectangular shape. It turns out that housewives cut corners themselves. But why?

The corner is cut off after use and when it becomes unusable. It is believed that cutlery should not be washed with the same sponge for more than a week. Despite the fact that it still has a presentable appearance, it is no longer advisable to use it, since a large number of harmful bacteria accumulate in it.

After seven days, Europeans simply cut off a corner, degrease the washcloth well and use it for other purposes. A cut corner is an indication that this specimen is no longer suitable for washing dishes. This helps the housewife or household members not to confuse a used sponge with a new one. A sponge with a cut corner can be useful when washing the following items:

• plumbing fixtures: bathtub, toilet, sink;
• shoes;
• batteries;
• hard to reach places;
• household appliances.

There are many use cases. The main thing is to remember that before use, a worn-out specimen must be thoroughly degreased with detergent and rinsed with water.

How often should you change a kitchen sponge?

We have already mentioned that ideally you need to change sponges every week. To remember this, you can make yourself a reminder and hang it on the refrigerator. You can mark the days of replacement in it. Funny? Maybe. But health is important, and hygiene in the kitchen is essential.

The dishwashing sponge has a porous structure. No matter how well it is washed after each use, small particles of food still remain on it. In addition, grease and detergent particles accumulate on the surface, which we do not notice at all. This “hot mixture” leads to the rapid proliferation of bacteria. As a result, it becomes unusable, although the appearance may remain fresh.

If it is not possible to change the dish sponge with the required frequency, then its proper use and storage will reduce the rate of bacterial growth and render it unusable. To do this, you must follow several rules:

1. Always place the firm side up. This will make it easier for water to drain from it, and if the dense side is at the bottom, this will accelerate the formation of harmful bacteria.
2. Keep away from water if possible. Some housewives leave it right in the sink. This is strictly forbidden. A humid environment promotes the growth of bacteria. Therefore, be sure to remove it from the sink. It is advisable to store it a little away from damp places.
3. Rinse well after use.After washing the dishes, pour a small amount of detergent onto the sponge and rinse it thoroughly. Then rinse thoroughly, and only then can you put it aside to dry.

Try to change the sponge at least once a week, and after 7 days it can be used for other purposes. And a life hack from European housewives will help indicate the function of this item. If a lot of sponges have accumulated, you can not just trim off a corner, but make a shaped trim: each shape will indicate a place for cleaning. This way you definitely won't get confused.