4 Genius Sponge Cleaning Tricks That Will Save You Time and Effort

Cleaning can feel like a never-ending battle. But there’s something satisfying about finding those little tricks that make it all so much easier.
In this post, we're sharing four game-changing cleaning hacks using sponges that’ll save you time and effort. They’re simple, effective, and will leave your home feeling fresh.
Ready to start cleaning smarter, not harder?
Scotch-Brite Zero Scratch Scrub Sponges - 12 Pack
Tools and Materials
Hometalk may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via Amazon links in this article but at no cost to you.
1. Microwave Disinfectant Sponge
Have you ever wondered how to disinfect a sponge quickly? This microwave trick is about to be your new best friend.
Here’s how you can easily sanitize your sponge and keep it fresh for your next cleaning session:
Step-by-Step:
- Thoroughly soak your sponge in water—Note: A dry sponge can catch fire!
- Place the wet sponge on a microwave-safe plate.
- Microwave it on high for one minute.
- Let it sit for 30 seconds to cool down before carefully removing it (yes, it will be hot!).
Why it works:
The steam and heat kill bacteria, leaving your sponge sanitized and smelling fresh.
It’s an easy, quick fix that’s perfect for keeping things hygienic between washes.
Bonus Tip:
Add a few drops of lemon juice to your sponge before microwaving. It gives your sponge a refreshing citrus scent while still doing the job of disinfecting!
2. Baseboard Swipe Trick
Cleaning baseboards can be a real pain, especially if you don’t want to spend your time crouching or crawling along the floor. But here’s an easy trick using a simple kitchen tool—a BBQ fork!
Let us show you how to make cleaning your baseboards a breeze:
Anolon SureGrip Stainless Steel Meat Fork
Step-by-Step:
- Grab a BBQ fork—the long handle gives you extra reach.
- Stick the sponge onto the prongs of the fork.
- Spray your favorite cleaning solution onto the sponge.
- Run the fork along your baseboards—the sponge will pick up dust and grime with ease!
Why It Works:
The long handle of the BBQ fork makes it easier to clean without bending down, and the sponge conforms to the shape of the baseboard, wiping away dirt in one simple swipe.
Bonus Tip:
Before spraying your cleaner, dampen the sponge with a little warm water and add a drop of dish soap. This helps loosen stuck-on grime so your baseboards get an even deeper clean in just one pass!
3. Blinds Cleaner
Cleaning blinds can feel like an endless task, but with this genius sponge trick, you’ll be done in no time.
The key here is using tongs and sponges to clean both sides of each slat simultaneously. It’s an efficient and effective way to dust your blinds in a fraction of the time.
Here’s how:
Step-by-Step:
- Attach a sponge to each end of kitchen tongs using rubber bands.
- Lightly spray the sponges with a dusting spray or a homemade vinegar solution.
- Clamp the tongs onto each blind slat and swipe across—cleaning both the top and bottom at once!
Why it works:
This method ensures both sides of each slat are cleaned at the same time, cutting your cleaning time in half. Plus, the sponge grabs more dust than a cloth would!
Bonus Tip:
For an extra dust-repelling boost, rub a dryer sheet over the sponges before cleaning. It helps grab even more dust and leaves behind an anti-static layer that keeps your blinds cleaner for longer!
4. Glass Streak Remover
We’ve all been there—cleaning glass only to end up with streaks that make it look like you haven’t cleaned it at all. But don’t worry, this DIY method is about to change your window cleaning game.
You only need two ingredients: vinegar and a microfiber cloth.
Here’s the easy process to follow:
Step-by-Step:
- Soak a sponge with a 50/50 mixture of vinegar and water.
- Keep a Ziploc bag filled with this mixture and sponges soaking inside for a quick and ready-to-use cleaning solution.
- Squeeze out the sponge and wipe down your windows or mirrors.
- Immediately follow up with a dry cloth to wipe away any streaks.
Why it works:
Vinegar cuts through grime and grease, while the loth ensures no streaks are left behind, leaving your windows spotless and shiny.
Bonus Tip:
For extra cleaning power on super dirty glass, add a drop of dish soap to the vinegar-water mix. It’ll help tackle stubborn spots and dirt!
Get more smart uses for sponges!
Sponge Cleaning Tricks That Will Save You Time and Effort
Alright, now that you’ve got these cleaning hacks under your belt, it’s time to put them to the test!
I’m betting they’ll make your home sparkle in ways you never thought possible. Cleaning doesn’t have to be a dreaded task when you have these quick and clever solutions in your back pocket.
So, grab that sponge and get to work—your home (and your back) will thank you.
Enjoyed the project?
Comments
Join the conversation
-
Lis122564218 on Mar 13, 2025
When I was a little girl in Brooklyn NY, in the 60’s my mom and I, each Spring, would simply remove each of the blinds from their holders on the windows, and place one at a time in the bathtub filled with bleach and water. There we would gently swish them around while cleaning with a bristle brush. After letting them sit for 20 minutes we would drain the water, add clear water and rinse then laid each blind flat on old towels and linens out on the grass to dry in the sun. These always, always looked so new afterwards. I still do my blinds this way. Nothing like the old ways….
-
-
Cof115905790 on Mar 13, 2025
Maybe it is just me. But I'm not crazy about putting a dirty sponge in a microwave where I heat food. If I had to, I put the sponge in dishwasher. I just put my sponges in half bleach, half water and let them sit.
-
Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
I have seen the blinds cleaning hack. But it won’t work with the smaller slats. I’ve not seen any cleaning/dusting hacks for the smaller slats. Can you help?
Shower cleaning hacks for people with mobility and joint issues special knees?