Dishwashing is a task we all face, whether it is to hand wash or to scrub off stains on pots and pans.
As for dish scrubbers, there are many types to choose from.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about dish scrubbers, including types of material, how to clean it and how to maintain it so it would last longer.
What is a Dish Scrubber?
A dish scrubber is a cleaning tool used to wash dishes and remove the remaining food, oil, and stains from the dishes, kitchen utensils, and kitchenware.
Depending on the nature of the material and the design of the dish scrubbers, they can be used on glassware that is very delicate or on a cast iron skillet to remove burnt food.
Types of Dish Scrubbers
There are several types of dish scrubbers in the market and each of them is suitable for specific functions.
Knowing which one suits your needs can come in handy to save you time and the frustration that comes with the wrong choice.
Sponges
Sponges are one of the most popular dish scrubbers available in the market.
It comes in many shapes and forms; there are the classic rectangular sponges, the scrubber sponges (with a rough side for tougher cleaning), and the foam sponges.
The other side is generally used to clean the items slowly, while the other side, with a tougher surface, helps remove the stains.
Scrub Brushes
Dish scrub brushes are available in many forms, including small brushes with handles that can be held in the hand and large brushes used in washing large pans and pots.
It works well in removing grime from the bottom of pots, pans as well as dishes where a sponge cannot easily reach.
Steel Wool Pads
Steel wool pads are especially useful for picking up the remains of food and grease that has been burned onto the surface.
However, they should be used with caution because if used vigorously, they may cause scratches or dents on some surfaces, including nonstick cookware and even on your dishes.
These pads are most recommended for tough stain removal as they are not as soft as a sponge.
Dishcloths and Microfiber Cloths
Dishcloths and microfiber cloths are quite gentle on your dishes yet very efficient in cleaning them.
Microfiber is known to hold dirt and bacteria, thus making it a perfect solution for ensuring your kitchen is always clean.
A dishcloth is a cloth that is used in wiping and drying after washing, while a microfiber cloth is a cloth that is used in wiping and drying after washing.
Which is the Right Dish Scrubber for Your Needs?
When it comes to selecting a dish scrubber, it is good to first consider the kind of cookware and dishes that you have in your home and the kind of tasks that you intend to perform.
For Nonstick Cookware
Do not use steel wool or any other harsh material on nonstick surfaces because this will scratch the surface.
Instead, opt for a soft sponge or a microfiber cloth.
Some sponges are intended for use with nonstick cookware and such sponges have a gentle, non-abrasive surface.
For Stubborn Food Build-Up
If you have to often clean the pots and pans with baked on food, it is advisable to use a tough scrub brush or the steel wool pad.
These tools are ideal to use in order to remove tough stains or bits of food that are stuck on your utensils, thus making the task easier and faster to complete.
For Delicate Dishes
For example, if you have delicate dishes like fine china, glassware, or crystal, then you will need a scrubber that is not only soft but also gentle.
For such items, using a sponge that is not very rough or a microfiber cloth is advisable.
How to Choose the Right Dish Scrubber?
It all comes down to a few basic things when choosing a dish scrubber: what kind of dishes you have, how often you wash them, and what you prefer. Here are some things to consider:
Material
The type of material used in the construction of the scrubber is very important in the performance of the scrubber.
Use a soft material such as a silicone scrubber or a sponge for nonstick cookware to clean the surface.
For cleaning pots and pans, it’s best to use a stiff brush or an abrasive scrub pad.
Durability
Some scrubbers are less durable than others; the abrasive scrubber sides or the natural scrubbers wear out quickly.
If you are searching for a scrubber that will last longer than a few days, opting for a stronger scrub brush or a silicone scrubber would be wiser.
Ergonomics
If you are washing many dishes, then comfort is a major factor.
Look for scrubbers with ergonomic handles or scrubbers that have a comfortable grip.
It is ideal to use brushes with comfortable handles to avoid straining the hand and to make the process easier.
Ease of Cleaning
Some of the scrubbers are quite easy to clean and are rather challenging to clean, and this means that they tend to collect bacteria over a period of time.
For instance, sponges are porous and, therefore, need to be replaced from time to time.
On the other hand, silicone scrubbers and scrub brushes are easy to rinse and do not hold much water.
How to Maintain Your Dish Scrubber
The general care of your dish scrubber is very important to ensure that it remains efficient and hygienic. Here’s how you can maintain your scrubber, no matter the type.
Rinse After Each Use
It is recommended to rinse your scrubber to ensure that the particles or soapy residue are removed.
This way, bacteria will not have a place to grow on the sponge or the brush.
Let It Dry Completely
After rinsing your scrubber, ensure that you dry it thoroughly.
Bacteria thrive in moist environments, so letting your scrubber dry out after every use will help keep it clean and fresh.
Clean Your Scrubber Regularly
Eventually, you will have to give your dish scrubber a good clean even if you are already rinsing it after every use.
To clean sponges, put them in the microwave for a few minutes or immerse them in a solution of bleach to disinfect them.
Steel wool pads can be washed with hot water and left to dry in the open air.
Replace When Necessary
No matter how much you take care of your scrubber, it will wear out at some point.
A worn-out scrubber cannot work as efficiently as it should and may even pose some hygiene risks.
This is why you should replace your scrubber every few weeks or when you notice it has developed some unpleasant scents.
Conclusion
As much as dish scrubbing is necessary, it is not the only way of ensuring your home is clean. If you are searching for a house cleaning service, consider NW Maids.
Our professional cleaning services will help you free up your time and energy.
We can help you with daily cleaning or deep cleaning services, and our team will gladly assist you.
To book your cleaning, please visit our website, nwmaids.com, or call (206) 508-5850.
Getting all the different types of dish scrubbers and following the tips mentioned above will help ensure their kitchen is cleaner.
It is also essential to know that with a little care and maintenance, you will be able to use the dish scrubbers for a more extended period before they need to be replaced.
It is always essential to have them around when you need them and following the above guidelines will help to ensure that they are always in good condition.
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