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Cleaning sponges are not “one size fits all.”

Review these five main types of cleaning sponges to determine the right one for your next task.

Cellulose Sponges

Cellulose sponges are some of the most common, low-cost sponges on the market.

Overhead still life showing the different types of sponges

The Spruce / Leticia Almeida

Cellulose sponges are inexpensive, provide good absorbency, and last through tough chores.

These sponges are great for use on outdoor grills and some patio furniture.

A lot of these sponges are color-coded according to their level of toughness.

Overhead still life of cellulose sponges

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Unfortunately, there is no standard between companies or even within a single brand for the color-coded system.

Compressed Cellulose Sponges

Compressed cellulose sponges are sometimes called pop-up sponges.

These sponges are dry and have all of the air sucked out of them prior to packaging.

Overhead still life of abrasive sponges

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The sponge rehydrates when you place it in water, popping up into a normal cellulose sponge.

However, compressed cellulose sponges can often be more expensive than other sponges.

Natural Sponges

Natural sponges are actually harvested from the ocean.

Overhead view of compressed cellulose sponges

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These super-absorbent sponges are great forwashing windowsand cleaning up large spills.

Natural sponges are durable and can last a long time when properly cared for.

Dry sponges are frequently used to cleansoot from surfaces after a fire.

Closeup still life of a natural sponge

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They can also be used to clean wallpapered walls and fabric window coverings.

Store dry sponges in tightly sealed plastic bags to keep them from hardening.

Overhead view of dry sponges

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