Basic Cleaning Steps
Rinse the sponge
Place the used melamine sponge under running water and gently squeeze it with your hands to allow the water to carry away any dirt absorbed into the sponge.
Focus on rinsing the surface and pores of the sponge where stains are visible, avoiding vigorous rubbing. This may cause the sponge to tear and become unusable.
Squeeze and drain
During rinsing, gently squeeze the sponge repeatedly until the water that comes out is clear. At this point, most of the stains have been removed.
Note: Do not twist the sponge forcefully to minimize fiber breakage.
Air-dry naturally
After cleaning, place the sponge in a well-ventilated, dry area to air-dry naturally, avoiding direct sunlight. This may accelerate product aging.
Once fully dried, the sponge will regain its fluffy texture and can be reused.
Stains that cannot be rinsed off
If there are stubborn oil stains or sticky stains on the sponge, follow these steps:
- Soak in warm water: Place the sponge in warm water and soak for 1-2 minutes to soften the stains, then rinse with clean water and squeeze to enhance the cleaning effect.
- Avoid using detergents: The cleaning principle of melamine sponges is based on their internal porous structure physically adsorbing stains, so no detergents such as dish soap or soap are needed. Using detergents may leave chemical residues, affecting subsequent use.
Precautions
Avoid vigorous rubbing or tearing
Melamine sponges have a structure similar to "micro-sponge bodies" and are relatively brittle. Excessive force may cause the sponge to crack or shed particles, thereby shortening its service life.
Avoid cleaning with highly corrosive substances
If the sponge has come into contact with strong acids, strong alkalis, paint, glue, or other highly corrosive or extremely sticky substances, it is recommended to replace it immediately. Such substances may damage the sponge's structure and are difficult to clean thoroughly.
Dry thoroughly after use
After cleaning, ensure the sponge is completely dried. Otherwise, moisture may lead to bacterial growth and unpleasant odors, especially in summer or humid regions. It is recommended to clean and dry the sponge immediately after each use.
Replace promptly when damaged
When the sponge shows significant damage, severe flaking, or reduced absorbency, it should be replaced promptly to avoid using a damaged sponge for cleaning.
The above methods can effectively clean melamine sponges and extend their service life. It is important to note that melamine sponges are consumables, and their adsorption capacity will naturally decrease with prolonged use. Regular replacement is necessary to ensure cleaning effectiveness.
DeRun offers cleaning sponges made from various materials, such as melamine sponges, polyurethane sponges, and cellulose sponges. If you are interested in purchasing any of these products, please contact us.