I am noticing some discoloration on my sponges. What should I do?Updated a day ago

Discoloration of sponges are most likely caused by:

• Bacterial or mold growth from moisture retention - this appears as dark spots, yellowing, or greenish patches
• Mineral buildup from hard water, which can cause yellowing or brown staining
• Food residue that hasn't been fully rinsed away, leading to staining over time

Immediate steps you can take:

1. Rinse the sponge thoroughly with hot water
2. Microwave it damp for 60-120 seconds to kill bacteria (let it cool before handling)
3. Alternatively, you can run it in the dishwasher.

Prevention tips:

• Rinse sponges thoroughly after each use
• Wring out excess water and store in a well-ventilated area
• Replace kitchen sponges every 1-2 weeks
• Consider alternating between multiple sponges to allow complete drying

If the discoloration appeared very quickly or the sponge has an unusual odor, it may be best to replace it entirely for hygiene reasons.