Remove Bacteria from a Sponge?(Warning:The music is loud,can’t edit it now that is is published.)

#cleaning #bacteria #realworldresults #disinfect #sanitize
My apologies that the music in the middle is loud. I cannot change it now that it is uploaded. You can hit mute to get through it.
In this video I test various methods of removing bacteria from a kitchen sponge. I tested 4 methods: microwaving for 1 minute, setting it in the dishwasher, soaking in vinegar for 5 minutes and washing with dishsoap!
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[@FieldOfFocus]

I am aware that the music is loud in the middle of the video. I cannot figure out how to change that since it is already uploaded. My apologies. Feel free to hit mute during the part where I show you how I sample etc.

[@ralfbaechle]

I found your video's volume ok on my desktop PC speakers that is I felt no urge to change the volume between spoken and music parts though yes, the music was a bit but not excessively louder. The technical nitty gritty ... KZbin will automatically reduce the volume if it considers it excessive. In the (analog) past -12 dB volume was considered the limit for production but in the all digital world of online video and streaming it seems 0 dBFS has become the new standard. Which may result in distortion when an equalizer or other post processing is later applied but the viewer. KZbin itself wants -13 dBFS … -15 dBFS but -9 dBFS for short bits are ok. If your videos volume is considered too low or too loud by youtube the automated upload processing will renormalize the volume to something in that range.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thank you for telling me this. I just got bombarded with comments saying the music was too loud, and a few that is was horrible. Horrible I can't change now either ! 😂 It is good to know that youtube will reduce volumes if it is too loud. And as for horrible, well I try to pick different music for my videos from the free creator library. Thanks for reaching out. I appreciate it!

[@ralfbaechle]

@@FieldOfFocus Picking music for a video is a bit of a pain. Somebody will always dislike it. Then there is youtube's creator library. At the same time it's pretty large and not large enough. So many youtubers are using it that it's guaranteed there have been hundreds of videos using any particular track before. There's also a legal catch. To my understanding the terms allow the use of the library for youtube. That is the terms don't grant any usage rights for other video platforms. You could always license music from another site. Or even have something created for your exclusive use. I tend to look around for music under cc0 / public domain from other sites as licensing doesn't make sense for my videos which are not monetized. A final word on the volume. I was listening on desktop speakers. The user experience with headphones, ear buds or a mobile phone may be pretty different. There is some music with feels like somebody is piercing the ear drums with pencils on headphones - but is perfectly ok on speakers.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Yes!! I have been using the KZbin creator music since it is free and easy for licensing. I really appreciate your taking the time to comment.

[@PhotoswithArt]

You could use the KZbin editor feature (if it's still exist. I haven't use it since ages ago). I think using YT editor, you don't have to re-upload and it's still retain the view count. You might try it. 👍

[@trinacogitating4532]

When a dish sponge starts to age, it becomes a dedicated sponge for cleaning the sink, & I pull out a new sponge for dishes.

[@FieldOfFocus]

I do that too.. ahhah!

[@pigeoness22]

Me too.

[@ssstults999]

Same!

[@lillieberger2883]

And use a lot of bleach.

[@tammytammy4932]

@@trinacogitating4532 I use the ScrubDaddy sponges 🧽. They are resistant to bacteria. And I disinfect them at least twice weekly. ScrubDaddy sponges never smell 👃 in my experience.

[@j-tibz8299]

Many people say that “cleaning” sponges results in more harmful bacteria surviving inside the sponge. I’d be interested to see swabs from the inside of the sponge (cut open and swabbed), and maybe a comparison of how other sponges compare when retaining bacteria (scrub daddy vs scotch brite, etc)

[@FieldOfFocus]

Interesting ideas!!!! I will add them to my viewer suggestion list! Thanks for watching!

[@bondee5865]

That's why letting sponges completely dry is probably good? Perhaps one test with an afterwards, dried sponge too? I sure have learned effective ways to keep my kitchen clean from your tests👍

[@s.engelsman4521]

Just what I was thinking about. The same type of problem with using hand sanitizer too often. The nasty few that survive then often take over because there aren't any lesser bacteria to keep them in check. The really bad ones can also become resistant.

[@s.engelsman4521]

It's very important to let all sponges and dishcloths dry completely between uses. Most bacteria dies if there is no moisture.

[@Aine197]

It‘s not a question of swabbing inside or outside the sponge. The point is that by disinfecting the sponge several times, you breed resistant bacteria (on the inside and outside). Disinfecting kills off almost all bacteria, leaving the place nice and empty (without any competition) for those few hardy bacteria who managed to survive, which allows them to multiply really well. So every time you disinfect a sponge, you are left with tougher and tougher bacteria that are increasingly hard to kill.

[@julianknows]

Have you considered boiling the sponge in water with dish soap? The surfactants in the soap reduce water's surface tension, allowing for deep penetration into the sponge. This, along with the high temperature of boiling water that kills most pathogens, makes it a highly effective method for cleaning and sanitizing

[@FieldOfFocus]

For this test, I did not consider boiling the sponge. That might be one to try for the next round of testing. Thanks for watching!

[@kristakat]

I have a great way to remove bacteria from a sponge - I throw it away after I use it. Plus, I don’t use sponges 😊

[@FieldOfFocus]

Yeah.. I toss mine when they look too old!

[@lenakohl2339]

It sounds better that microwaving, actually. I cook mine with soda sometimes. (And a don't have a microwave oven).

[@yoloparrot42]

That's what I do slso

[@UnkleAL1962]

a tip I found earlier this year - I was making up hanging flower baskets, and I saw this lady cut up a sponge and put it in with the dirt. She said it would help retain water in the basket and I'm pretty sure it worked. The pots held a little extra water and I could actually skip a day of watering and the plants were still ok. A re-purpose use for your old sponges if you do any planting.

[@ladybugsarah6671]

I put a small bowl in the bottom of my flower basket. So the extra runoff is held there for the roots for later.

[@FieldOfFocus]

That is a great tip!! Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@genossinwaabooz4373]

Vermiculite! It's seriously worth it as a soil ammendment, for at least a couple good reasons. Not sure its impact re sourcing/mining, but the aeriated soil benefit is a healthier soil.

[@censusgary]

Be careful which plants you pit that way. Some need to dry out between waterings, or their roots will rot.

[@cmg-s5d]

Thank you! I’ll try this.

[@saj810]

thank you for all these scientific tests! So much better than the "opinions" others post.

[@FieldOfFocus]

You are welcome! I got annoyed watching videos and reading blogs where they say a product "works" with no proof! I appreciate your support!

[@Mike1614b]

I take the bacteria-laden sponge, which can get stinky, and put it in a glass with diluted bleach (3 parts water to 1 part bleach ) and let it soak for 30 mins. then rinse. works very well

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thanks for sharing!

[@vickif.4645]

I also use bleach, but I dilute it more - 10 parts water to one part bleach.

[@faiora]

You’re going to want to dilute the bleach more, for better effectiveness. Bleach actually requires quite a bit of dilution to reach its full potential, and most people are using it too strong. Dilute to about 10% (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) for better sanitizing. Source: I worked for a hazmat firm, doing training related stuff for remediation. Also: (not that you asked) Bleach does kill mould, but when you stress out mould in various ways (heat, bleach, etc) it can cause it to release spores. It’s safer to use lukewarm water and a mould specific cleaning product if you’re cleaning mould without full PPE.

[@eugenetswong]

@@faiora I need help with mould in my walls and carpet. May I ask you questions, please? Thanks for the info that you have provided.

[@cinmac3]

@@faiora PPE?

[@calvinburr1248]

The best way hands down is to dry them outside in the sun....the ultraviolet light sterilizes everything better than chemicals and the sun's heat also helps. The added bonus is that it's free and effortless. You may need to rotate them with a couple of extra sponges to use while the others dry in the sun. Same goes for rags, wash cloths, towels, and other laundry items...the old-fashioned clothes line is not used much anymore but laundry dried that way still has advantages.

[@FieldOfFocus]

You would like this one: Washing & Drying in the SUN to Remove Bacteria? -VIEWER REQUEST- Tested w/Petri dishes! kzbin.info/www/bejne/g5rSd4eJqqeEfqM

[@eugenetswong]

@@FieldOfFocus I will go and watch that. Thanks.

[@civilpse5458]

India has plenty of sunshine. Whether it's the sponge for dishwashing, or clothes or any other, we put them on clothes line out in the sun. Of course,after washing with soap and rinsing in water.

[@civilpse5458]

@@FieldOfFocus definitely sister.

[@annemurphy9339]

Except then they get crawled on by flies and their buddies …

[@NikConwell]

Thanks, great video! This combines two of my favorite hobbies - science, and cleaning stuff.

[@FieldOfFocus]

I am glad you enjoyed it!

[@sundoesshine8583]

It might be interesting to test sponges vs. the new swedish cleaning cloths which dry out quickly supposedly.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Interesting idea! Will add it to my viewer suggestion list! Thanks for watching!

[@christinajones7696]

Testing the Scrub Daddy scraper.

[@unpackingideas]

I never comment on videos, but this was excellent. Love the Scientific Method! I don't have to take someone's word for what works best

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thank you so very much!!! I appreciate your kind words!

[@mattsanchez4893]

Wow this is excellent, I now know to rinse my sponges with dish soap before I put them in the dishwasher…also I wonder how soaking the sponge in a diluted bleach solution or hydrogen peroxide would fare?

[@YideedNefesh]

this is fascinating!! The Nurse in me enjoyed this tremendously! Thank YOU!

[@FieldOfFocus]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for watching!

[@kraftikristin]

Thanks for sharing this! I always rinse my sponge with soap then throw it in the dishwasher. Turns out I've been doing the right thing! Thanks again

[@FieldOfFocus]

Sounds good!!!!!! Thanks for watching!

[@betweenworlds620]

Do you worry about the sponge ending up on the heating coils during the drying cycle and causing a fire?

[@kraftikristin]

@@betweenworlds620 that has never crossed my mind, i dont use the heated dry cycle

[@saschamayer4050]

​@@betweenworlds620 Are the heating coils out the open in your dishwasher? And the sponge should be soaking wet after the washing cycles are done. Could it really go up in flames then?

[@bookworm1956]

I tend to wash with soap, then drench it in vinegar, and microwave it (with the vinegar ) for 2 minutes. The steam from this will also softens any stains inside the microwave, which then becomes really easy to clean.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Awesome! Great tip!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@SanePerson1]

I saturate the sponge in soapy water to which a splash of bleach had been added, and I microwave that for 1 minute. Try that. (The sponge will degrade after several treatments of that, so I just throw it away at that point.) I also use new sponges for dishes - the older ones are for countertops, the oldest ones are for other cleaning jobs and they're thrown away after one use.

[@lynndanielson4172]

Nice test. I throw my sponges in the dishwasher when they take on an odor. If I'm in a hurry and sanitizing my kitchen surfaces, I soak my sponges and dish rags in bleach water. Normally, dish rags and towels just go through the washer/dryer, sometimes with added bleach.

[@FieldOfFocus]

I usually toss my sponges once they get yuk so it is interesting to hear how people revive them! Thanks!

[@MegLikesToGarden]

Thank you for your dedicated research! This is one of my new favorite channels! ❤

[@FieldOfFocus]

Wow, thank you! I truly appreciate your support!

[@logical1291]

Dishwasher should of had a full load of dishes to see if it really disinfected the sponge. Love his video! 👏🏽

[@FieldOfFocus]

I was trying to record in the morning and I run my dishwasher at night... so it is what it is!

[@kathleendavis2008]

I'm a big fan of borax and the sun's rays!!! We have medical issues going on in our home and these two items don't fail us.

[@FieldOfFocus]

I have tested cleaning cloths in November sun and I am in the process of editing a video of cleaning cloths in August Sun!

[@dagnolia6004]

i cut up the sponge into four to help my frugal psychosis feel better about THROWING them AWAY! great vid

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thank you for watching and commenting!!

[@The_10th_Man]

I wonder what the results would be on a new sponge from the package.

[@moniquewooding1778]

I use old sponges when I’m potting up a plant, pop it at the bottom to keep the soil moist.

[@AdamBechtol]

ha, :p

[@estellestone5322]

THANK YOU so much for this! I always wondered which method was actually best for removing bacteria from my sponge. Now I know! You're the best!

[@FieldOfFocus]

Glad it was helpful! I appreciate your support! I enjoy testing all sorts of products!

[@lzrd8460]

What I do is every evening, after I’ve cleaned up for the night, I put my sponges in the sink then let them soak overnight in my sink that has boiling water & bleach . That way I clean my sponges and the bottom few inches of my sink.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Glad you have a good system that works for you!!

[@janem3575]

I tried that in a pot i had to clean. it created black spots in the pot by morning!

[@lillieberger2883]

@@janem3575maybe the aluminum reacted to the bleach.

[@johnmcdaid3825]

I was under the impression that bleach doesn't work in warm/ hot water?

[@Laura-ps3tb]

Lesson about microwave: Great for cleaning sponges only. (what the heck is it doing to our food?)

[@snowlocke1342]

I love how your testing considers realistic application! I’ve been microwaving my sponges but I recently got a portable dishwasher so I think I’ll start tossing my sponge in when I use it. Not sure I could handle putting my kitchen sink sponge in though, i’ll try the vinegar for that one lol.

[@FieldOfFocus]

I am glad you enjoyed my video!! When I test my products I do so with real world situations! Thanks for watching!!

[@mikemclenison8200]

I wonder how much bacteria would be left if you microwaved it for 2 minutes or put in vinegar for 30 minutes, etc.

[@InvasionAnimation]

This was useful, thank you!

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thank you for your support!

[@sharonDnc]

I've been doing 2 mthods; Soak in diluted hydrogen proxide (1:1), or water & bleach, then microwave for TWO minutes. I cant believe bleach & water wasn't tested, but good to know vinegar works so well.

[@FieldOfFocus]

So bleach and water wasn't tested because I chose the ones I chose... I figured as people watch this video more suggestions would come through and I will make a part 2. Thanks for watching.

[@ivanarais1217]

Bleach demages sponge. I use bleach for everything except sponge. I am thinking about using laundry desinfectant for sponge.

[@sundoesshine8583]

Well of course bleach and water would work - if you want to buy sponges by the case due to them breaking down 1k times faster than they should have.

[@Nclk619]

@@ivanarais1217 instead of bleach, use hypochlorous acid. It is more genial for everything, including your hands, and get this, more efficient and not harmful for the environment or for us. I use it for everything. That's what the lab I worked for uses. We all had a spray bottle with us all the time to wipe after ourselves having or not having a spill. It was just a safe measure. We never had any problem, ever, in our lab

[@puggirl415]

A lot of people are biased against bleach going into the water system. Bleach is kind of old school toxic. I still use bleach to clean sponges tho. I don't have a microwave or a dishwasher. I find coffee things and water bottles that need disinfecting. I fill a container with bleach water and soak everything for about 30 minutes. Then I either rinse and use the items or I let them dry in the sun. I'm pretty sure this kills everything I need to be killed. Then I take the bleach water add a little dish soap and use it to clean the bathroom floors. Done. Bleached bathroom rags go in the laundry after rinsing. Dump remaining bleach water down the toilet and let it soak to remove any stains.

[@analyticalhabitrails9857]

I have a seggestion, what about using hot, HOT boiling water? (Like pouring over it, then let set to dry until its cool to touch. I.E, safe) Won't that kill bacterias, germs, and viruses?

[@FieldOfFocus]

That can be a round two test! Thank you for the suggestion! I can't say if it will work until I test it! Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@YT-NS]

I was wondering this also, because I rinse it under the quooker tap

[@justtabandme8871]

I’m 80+ and throughout my life, I washed my sponges in my white clothing (contains bleach) load. When I worked in a kitchen of a hospital (first job!), sponges were kept in bleach/water solution overnight. HTH!!!

[@FieldOfFocus]

Will do more sponge testing and add this! Thanks!

[@Charles-zf6lk]

They use bleach also in the center for disease control in what they call hot zones.

[@Charles-zf6lk]

Got Bleach?

[@brianray8484]

I tried the microwave method, and the sponge came out still smelling. Then I got a resealable plastic container and poured enough vinegar to cover the sponge and I leave it in there all the time when not using it. I pull it out, squeeze it out then use it, rinse it and put it back.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thanks for sharing what you do!

[@aliceclearmanphd984]

Love this! I was surprised by the vinegar - my guess was the dishwasher would be a lot better than the other methods. My solution is that I just don't use sponges in the kitchen - ever! 😂

[@FieldOfFocus]

I love guessing and then seeing the results!!

[@wandamusictube]

So you never wipe anything?

[@aliceclearmanphd984]

​@@wandamusictube Haha! Ohmygosh, what a GREAT question! 💗 I wipe my counters several times a day. I use white cotton towels I get at Costco - 14x17. They are a bit over $20 for 50 of them. They are SO handy! I use them for all sorts of clean-up and wash them with a bleach cycle. I like to use window cleaner solution if I want to cut oil or clean after handling meat. But usually, I just use water, which is a GREAT solvent. It carved out the Grand Canyon!

[@callycharles2515]

Great video, I really appreciate your thorough testing! I soak mine in a container of water with just a splash of bleach. I read the comments and so many people toss them. Please consider the environment and use them as long as possible. In landfills, sponges other than natural ones (made from plastic or oils) can take up to 58 years to decompose. Natural sponges take up to 5 years to completely decompose. Pure cellulose sponges can decompose within a few weeks in soil. Synthetic sponges, on the other hand, can take hundreds of years, and may never fully decompose at all.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts!

[@cinmac3]

@@callycharles2515 wether we buy synthetic or not there here or will be in our environment. so is there a solution, really.

[@privatenexus5764]

I use cheap (also would be alcohol based) bulk mouthwash in a spray bottle to disinfect the dishwasher. It really stops the dishwasher from smelling funky when not used for a few days.

[@lizjo7213]

I had no problems when I could get Debbie Meyer's Genius Sponge...anyone who's used them knows they were the best sponges on the market...I loved them so much I was desperate and paid $20 for a pack of 4 on Ebay...I really want to know why they were discontinued, probably because they out sold everyone...

[@FieldOfFocus]

Sorry to hear the sponge you like is not available! Thanks for watching!

[@MichaelLeeOne]

I always used to boil mine after I washed them, but now I get a new one.

[@natasastojanovic5321]

I love your videos so much! I started using vinegar mixed with dish soap for my dishes and from what you showed in this video I would say it's very effective. It is very strong so I don't recommend doing the dishes without glows while using this, but my dishes are squicky clean. 😊

[@FieldOfFocus]

oooh that is nice to hear!!!!! I am glad you are enjoying my videos!! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@mariagauthier1327]

Soap = base Vinegar = acid. They cancel each other out.

[@lourdesfrance5924]

Can you show scientific evidence?

[@Conservator.]

When doing tests like these I think it’s important to have the same starting conditions. I think you could notice small differences in the ‘before’ section of your tests. I would have let a little water into the sink and would have mixed all sponges at the same time in it. I don’t think it’s critical though and I di think the results of your tests are valid.

[@maywattee]

Thank you, that was a quick response, i appreciate the additional testing you did. I always suspected that sponge was not "clean"

[@FieldOfFocus]

Any time you rub a sponge on a dirty sink, especially the drain, there will be bacteria on it! Thank you for watching!

[@ChrisBreier]

I'm wondering if microwaving the sponge for a longer period of time would make a difference? Anyways, I appreciate the data driven approach.🙂

[@FieldOfFocus]

I think it would.. I will be re-visiting the sponge test later in the winter!

[@leaclayton3598]

Please test the difference between sponges and dish rags THANK YOU

[@FieldOfFocus]

I have many videos about dishrags and cleaning cloths in my Laundry Playlist kzbin.info/aero/PL6P5xAP9Rj6Jp_mEprHAtUIvXu2KtDM7r

[@danielch6662]

I don't have a dishwasher. Don't live in north America. They aren't common here. Suggest: rinse, microwave, rinse, microwave again. Because I don't like to waste vinegar, nor it's smell, and microwave and water cost very little.

[@Revelation21NINE]

I do mine in the microwave with a bit of vinegar in the bowl (couple of tablespoons or so) and then nuke it with the soft side up for 1.5 mins and then flip the sponge over and nuke it again with the scouring side up for another 1.5 mins - let cool down and use. If I don't have vinegar handy then I'll use a bit of bleach and water for the liquid in the bottom of the bowl. Gets rid of the bacterial odors as well and lasts for awhile before I have to either redo or replace.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thanks for your thoughts!!!

[@b92555]

Would have like to see chlorine or oxygen bleach as well. At one time I was responsible for “ industrial level sterilization” of food packaging equipment. We used alkali chlorinated detergent soak followed by an acidic chloramine solution soak. 200 ppm available chlorine. Soak times were 20 minutes. The surfaces were: stainless steel, rubber, and plastic. I think the small colonies of bacteria were likely airborne because I saw one in the control area.

[@angelinaklineburgess5286]

I generally use isopropyl for the sponges. It’s cheap and I just keep it next to the sink .

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thanks for your thoughts!

[@sandstorm8874]

is it cheaper than vinegar ?

[@angelinaklineburgess5286]

@@sandstorm8874 I buy the 70% and the 91% at my local Target . It’s maybe $3? I use on doorknobs and similar after the family has had bad runs of colds and flus as well as in the kitchen area. I like it for sponges because it evaporates quickly and can help speed up complete drying as well as disinfecting.i Ali wipe down countertops after I wash them to remove all cleansers as I cut cloth on the counter.

[@rosezaz6607]

@@FieldOfFocus I’ve been using alcohol as well and on the counters is that a test that you’ve done or will do?

[@butterflygirl3359]

I don’t leave food or grease on it and empty what’s left of the boiling water I use for my tea on it daily. I also hit it with spray bleach a few times a week.

[@paulaclark9729]

One minute of microwaving isn't long enough to kill bacteria. I microwave sponges and dishrags for three minutes. I use vinegar to clean my vegetables. After your video I may consider microwaving them in it.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thanks for your thoughts!

[@AF_1892]

Microwaving vegtables? I don't think that will remove the pesticides. Also im imaginging a tamato blowing up in the microwave. Strong case for washing veggies in sink, I had fresh spinach, didnt wash it. Bit into my salad. That graveley stuff in it was not dirt. It was poop! Beyond nasty. This is also why i don't buy organic milk. You get extra poop from the cows udders, but the pasteurization makes it safe to eat. There is not an efficient way for organic dairy farmers to clean. Sorry if this grosses anyone out.

[@AceStrife]

My microwave died when I was microwaving a sponge. Now, it was starting to go in the first place, but every time I did microwave a sponge in any microwave, the magnetron sounded much different. I'm no engineer so I don't know why this is happening, but I assume whatever it was just kicked it enough to finally go over the edge. Still, worries me about doing it ever again.

[@veggiestan9500]

Great video! Someone already mentioned hydrogen peroxide but I’d like to second the suggestion of trying that on sponges in a future video. My aunt swears by using hydrogen peroxide on her sponges. She cleans them with dish soap and water first then squeezes out the excess water and saturates it in straight hydrogen peroxide and lets them dry that way. I’m skeptical about it, I always just dispose of them after they get to be too gross like you mentioned you do.

[@FieldOfFocus]

YES! My next sponge test I will add hydrogen peroxide! Thanks for watching!

[@MrWiseinheart]

Using the microwave for cleaning the sponge should tell you everything you need to know about cooking your food in it... I only use the microwave to sterilize things now. 😅

[@maiiabakhova2474]

Just found you channel, very exciting! I am likely to be late, but I’m suggesting hydrogen peroxide.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thank you so much for watching and commenting!! I will add hydrogen peroxide to my next lettuce test! thanks!

[@elkudos6262]

Just soap handwash it after each use and keep hanging to dry, ffs. Makes every cloth immortal.

[@kassandraanderson5564]

Please try the Sponge Daddy!!

[@FieldOfFocus]

ooh I love my sponge daddy... I will add that to my viewer suggestion list! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@Thorathome]

Helpful video, thank you.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching!

[@deborahn.6150]

Best way? Toss the sponge and use a dishcloth. Change daily, wash with your towels when you do laundry. TADAA

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thanks for your thoughts!

[@BS-ne5cr]

I usually soak my sponges in boiling water before I start using them on my dishes. In my mind that would kill anything.

[@ShhhMind]

(as a creator i love getting feedback so incase you like some i thought i'd suggest it coming from a place of kindness) i love your videos!!! However the interim music is a little loud, perhaps you could tone it down a little, also a suggestion to use more soothing music as cleaning can be therapeutic and the clubbing music is a little jarring and out of place but maybe some piano music or something would fit a little better 😅You could also add in a voice over there narrating what you're doing to keep it engaging! Keep it up!

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thanks for your thoughts. I do put the music to 63% but can make it lower. I also have used all sorts of music, jazz, pop, blues, hip hop... I keep trying new things. Right now I use whatever is free on KZbin that fits my time frame. I do usually keep it peppy since I am speeding up the film. Thank you for the suggestion, maybe I will make a poll and see what my viewers like!

[@ShhhMind]

@@FieldOfFocus Sounds like a good idea! I might be slightly skewed as i make content for sleep but i have been known to watch cleaning videos for relaxation and i know a lot of others do too. After all i am just one opinion! haha. I always try to help because i wish i got feedback back in the day too :) All the best, you're doing a fantastic thing that not many of us have the tools to do! Thank you so much!

[@richtraube2241]

I switched to brushes. They're much easier to clean.

[@whoooozen]

Forget the vinegar. Mix up a mild bleach water solution with a drop or two of dish detergent in a gallon bucket. Then use the sponge to wipe down your counters and sink. You will have disinfected the sponge, and the surfaces you wiped down! Just rinse out the sponge with water after and let it dry. The bleach with a little dish detergent is a very common thing for wiping down food prep surfaces in commercial kitchens.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thanks for your thoughts! I personally am not looking for the one and done way, I test various products for their efficacies. Bleach most certain is considered the standard, but not everyone likes using bleach, so I test a variety of products! Thanks for watching!

[@snailandfox9983]

Mix bleach and dishwash is toxic for your information

[@sundoesshine8583]

@@FieldOfFocus Plus using bleach breaks down sponges very fast so it would be great to have an alternative.

[@tf4606]

​@@sundoesshine8583 commercial kitchens don't typically use sponges. They have dedicated cloths.

[@sundoesshine8583]

@@tf4606 I don't live in a commercial kitchen but thanks?

[@archtopp1]

I put my sponge in the micro- wave and it removes any odor and i assume the bacteria that caused the smell.

[@JennWatson]

Will the washing machine clean it?

[@FieldOfFocus]

I haven't testing that yet so I cannot say!

[@spacer999]

You have to soak the sponge sufficiently before putting it in the microwave because it is the heated water that kills the bacteria. Also, one minute in the microwave is not long enough to heat the water - you need at least 2 minutes.

[@tammytammy4932]

I’m glad u did the 2nd test - I think it mimics real world situations. Thanks! I am a new subscriber. I am enjoying your content.

[@FieldOfFocus]

YES! Thank you for watching and for your support!

[@ttselha64]

Good experiment. I think it best to throw an old one out but your methods help me.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thanks for watching. Different people like to do different things! Some toss, some clean and save, etc.. so it is fun to test!

[@madiantin]

This makes me wonder about my homemade knitted dishcloths. I usually wash them in the washer on the sanitizing cycle, and then every so often boil them for ten minutes. I have wondered just how clean those cloths are, and whether it's better to use disposable ones. I prefer using reusable things though, rather than disposable ones, so have stuck with my knitted ones thus far. I'm sure you have many experiments on your list, but I'd love if you could add this one to the list.

[@FieldOfFocus]

I do have a bunch of videos in my laundry playlist that I test cotton cloths you might be interested in that but I haven't tested knitted cloths! kzbin.info/aero/PL6P5xAP9Rj6Jp_mEprHAtUIvXu2KtDM7r

[@madiantin]

@@FieldOfFocus Thank you!

[@arthouston7361]

A strong solution of sodium hypochlorite takes care of my sink tools. I let the scrubbee soak for about 8 hours, and it is like new after a good rinsing.

[@justjess986]

Thank you for these I love your videos just found your channel and of course subscribed! Can you check peroxide on your sponge for 5 mins and rubbing alcohol 70% sane thing please And can you also do lettuce in water and peroxide for 10 minutes And lemon juice And then apple cider vinegar water mix Lastly both bkg soda and vinegar and water I saw your other video on lettuce with bkg soda, vinegar, plain water and sal suds Thank you!

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thanks for watching! I will add those to my viewer suggestion list!

[@rpsmith]

Float the sponge in a bowl of water and cook in the Microwave on 50% power for 5 to 6 minutes and it will be bacteria free! One minute is not going to cut it!

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thanks for your thoughts!

[@victorstandiford9724]

Just, last month, I talked to a person I met at Safeway about this subject. She insisted on using a Pro clean seamer at 315 degrees F. at 75PSI. She seemed certain of it so I bought one.

[@FieldOfFocus]

I am not familiar with that steamer so I cannot say!

[@MichaelAmen316]

Great video! Hippy skippy!

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thank you!!!

[@arvidlystnur4827]

The best way to prevent bacteria growth from a dish sponge is to keep it on the store shelf. If someone uses one in my kitchen sink, I put it in the garbage can.

[@bodinian]

Wash the dishes that can't be washed in the dishwasher by hand in the sink, give the sponge a good rinse, then place the sponge in the top rack of the dishwasher with the rest of the dishes. Great results and it's something you can do regularly to keep the bacterial load down!

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thanks for your thoughts!

[@carolecampbell8813]

That's backwards! Wash your sponge in dishwasher and then use the CLEAN SPONGE to wash the dishes you have rinsed off and going to wash by hand.

[@bodinian]

@@carolecampbell8813 the food in the sink dishes will load the sponge up with bacteria as it sits waiting for the next wash. A sterilized sponge left sitting doesn't have this issue. It's up to personal preference but I like my method because it never gives the bacteria a buffet followed by time to multiply. The sponge is still clean when it is used on my dishes.

[@KenFullman]

You should have tried putting it in a pressure cooker for 15 minutes.

[@eagle-eye29]

I got rid of sponges and bought a dozen micro fiber wash clothes. After use, they go in the washer. I have one color for dishes and another for general cleaning. I also use a micro cloth on my swiffer mop.

[@MaxineAnne77]

I like this idea. Thank you for mentioning it.

[@r.i.p.volodya]

I would have thought that boiling water would do the trick...

[@le_th_]

Comment for the algorithm : )

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thank you!! I appreciate it! 😊

[@GetMeThere1]

Soaking it in rubbing alcohol (or actual ethyl alcohol, if possible). The ideal alcohol/water concentration is 70% -- which is what microbiologists use. It should kill all bacteria. However, I don't know whether alcohol might dissolve a normal cleaning sponge. I'd still start with some soapy squishing -- soap itself is very hard on most bacteria.

[@alleeum]

Thank you SO much for these videos!

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thank you so much for your support!

[@siiiriously3226]

i wash them with the laundry. i change my sponges out every other day or every few days depending on the temperature. they get smelly real fast.

[@TaraB1134]

Okay so what I do with sponges is wash them with dish soap then run them through the clothes washer - and most importantly - the dryer as well. I am wondering how well THAT kills bacteria. 😂. Nice job with these tests. Thanks!

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thanks for your support! You might find this interesting. This isn’t a sponge but is cloths Is It Enough?? Laundry w/ Tide Pods & Drying Cloths To Remove Bacteria?? I Tested w/ Petri Dishes! Is It Enough?? Laundry w/ Tide Pods & Drying Cloths To Remove Bacteria?? I Tested w/ Petri Dishes! kzbin.info/www/bejne/nYG2qoV8g5hgkNE

[@terrencecescon102]

Suggest waiting until hot sponge has dried after microwave treatment. Then I expect similar results to dishwasher as likely you have heated drying in dishwasher. Dessication itself will improve efficacy of sanitization.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thanks for your thoughts

[@bettypecoraro8104]

When I clean my kitchen drain, I always use a paper towel and antibacterial detergent with vinegar, then throw away the paper towel.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thanks for sharing!

[@sherrydickson7692]

Yes, I always use paper towels for that sink drain, also!

[@jamesutting7025]

Have you tried soaking the sponges in an Oxi Clean Laundry product that achieved great results in your previous tests. I would also like to see a test done on so called Anti-Bacterial Dishwashing Liquids. They make the claim that if you apply a generous squirt of detergent and massage it into the sponge, that it will prevent bacteria growing in the sponge for a 24 hour period. I apply these Anti-Bacterial Dish Washing Liquids to my sponges and scourers after every use, to try and keep any bacteria from growing in them. I frequently using a Dish Wand for easy and quick cleaning of small cups and plates. The detergent reservoir in the hollow handle is always kept filled with an Anti-Bacterial Dishwashing Liquid. I have repeatedly checked to ensure that the non-scratch scourer and sponge is always kept saturated with the Anti-Bacterial Dishwashing Liquid in an attempt to keep bacteria out of the Dish Wand. Do these Anti-Bacterial Dishwashing Liquids live up to the hype?. Am I just wasting detergent and money?

[@FieldOfFocus]

I can add your thoughts to my viewer suggestion list! There are lots of things to test! Thanks for watching!

[@OB17358]

I am dyslexic. How To Disinfect A Spouse…

[@FieldOfFocus]

Oh I love this!

[@josiew3120]

😅

[@marianacarmona6988]

lol … just don’t do it the next one will have the double ! 😊

[@kathleendavis2008]

I will pay u for this solution!!!😜

[@TheSweetpea73]

Wow! I’m really impressed with all your tests. I wonder how well baking soda works to disinfect. Sometimes I mix some baking soda and dawn to wash my dishes and the kitchen sink.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Hi there! I can add baking soda to my viewer suggestion list! Thanks for watching!!

[@suen5006]

Wow, interesting. So disappointed in the microwave because I've heard that recommended so many times! I wonder if microwaving for longer would make a difference. I use microfiber sponges that I have been using and cleaning in multiple ways for 15 years. I also wash them in the washing machine with towels. I like to soak them in hydrogen peroxide too. Thanks for your video!

[@lb8822]

Been usine microwave method with soap + water for 3 minutes. Since they recommend at least 2 minutes

[@FieldOfFocus]

May I ask who recommends at least 2 minutes? I was searching for info on disinfecting sponges and found 30sec - 1 minute.. I am just curious in other suggestions for future tests!

[@FieldOfFocus]

There are a lot of variables, I just chose some for this video. Lots of ways to test in the future! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@doraperry1578]

This was excellent ! Thank you 😊

[@FieldOfFocus]

You are welcome!!! Thanks for your continued support!

[@I-serve-you-tea]

Just use cellulose sponges. Simply wash them with soap and they never smell.

[@mermarseo]

I boil a kettle of water and set my sponge on my clean metal sink. I then pour the boiling water over the sponge.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thanks for sharing what you use!

[@rsoubiea]

As long as it’s damp you can nuke it for a minute. Or run it through the top shelf of your dishwasher, make sure you wedge it in good so it doesn’t get knocked down to the heat element.

[@bm.6349]

Awesome. Gonna try the vinegar method.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Great! Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@Chris_Sheridan]

.. this video is missing a touch of class - Tchaikovsky's 'Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy'

[@Meileehere]

I usually boil water in a kettle and pour it over the sponge. It eliminates all smells so I know it works.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Interesting.. I will add that to my next number of tests!! Thanks for watching!

[@connieh.4212]

For extra assurance, I soak the sponge in a bowl of freshly boiled water for a few minutes. Thanks

[@susanschofield2705]

Me, too

[@tonyd1149]

Wring out sponge, and sprinkle liberally with Baking soda both sides. (A 'salt' that works very well).

[@tivipanasonic]

Love your videos. Really helpful.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thank you so much!!!

[@Marilynstone13]

You are the besssssst!!! Thank you for these thoughtful tests!

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thank you so much for the support!

[@romanusquantula9437]

Why no pouring boiling water over it- you my even add vinegar!

[@katebowers8107]

I don’t use sponges, but I still find the video fascinating.

[@cheri7054]

@katebowers8107 If you don't use sponges what do you use to wash dishes

[@katebowers8107]

@@cheri7054 A brush. Plenty of people use dish cloths, too.

[@elizabethb3436]

Science awesomeness teaching kids through household chores.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Thanks for watching!

[@periel]

Ultra violet light?

[@FieldOfFocus]

Haven't tested it yet so I can't say!

[@ocr96]

Test steel wool. But don't microwave it.

[@myoue11]

Microwave time should be 2 minutes

[@MarkRoy-e2b]

Biology/genetics laboratories use dilute bleach solutions to clean bacteria and viruses. The bleach breaks down cell walls - no more bacteria. I rinse out the sponge to get most of the excess out, and then use bleach to clean up the remainder. Physical cleaning with detergent does carry off a lot of the contaminant - it just can't get it all.

[@FieldOfFocus]

Of course! Labs most certainly use dilute bleach. Thanks for your thoughts.