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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.
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Cellulose Sponges
Cellulose sponges are some of the most common, low-cost sponges on the market.
Cellulose sponges are inexpensive, provide good absorbency, and last through tough chores.
Best for:Most household chores and messes.
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A lot of these sponges are color-coded according to their level of toughness.
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.
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These sponges are dry and have all of the air sucked out of them prior to packaging.
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.
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Best for:Washing dishes andcleaning showers, windows, and floors.
Natural Sponges
Natural sponges are actually harvested from the ocean.
Natural sponges are durable and can last a long time when properly cared for.
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Best for:Washing windowsand cleaning up large spills.
Store dry sponges in tightly sealed plastic bags to keep them from hardening.
Best for:Cleaning wallpapered walls, fabric window coverings, andsoot from surfaces after a fire.
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