There are a number of cleaning tools I’ve come to rely on, but only one that I tuck into my suitcase when heading out-of-town for a visit… just in case I wind up puttering in someone’s kitchen. Seriously, I have no idea how to clean (well) without it….
That tool is the Scotch-Brite Non-Scratch Scrub Sponge, which allows you to clean surfaces to a smooth gorgeous sheen you can’t resist running your hand over. It gets underneath whatever you’re cleaning off and greatly improves the end result for counters; sinks; faucets; appliances (use caution with Stainless steel); shower glass; shower surrounds; bathtubs; etc., etc., etc.. I’m talking about the BLUE Scotch-Brite Scrub Sponge (not green!!), and using the scrubby side of the sponge; though the sponge part is handy for sopping up around sink tops etc. Here’s how to use it:
- Remove loose debris from the surface
- Spray surface generously with cleaner then give it a moment to penetrate
- Scrub with the wet Scrub-Sponge~the surface will feel slick in no time (add a bit of safe, concentrated cleaner to the Scrub-Sponge for tough-to-clean patches)
- Remove cleaner by rinsing, or with a squeegee or cloth.
- If needed, polish dry with a cloth or paper towel
And Voila~ eetsa beeautifull!
Heads up: I’ve found a few exceptions to the ‘Non-Scratch’ claim. Believe me when I tell you I am a freak about avoiding damage to surfaces and I use these pads on most everything without worries. But use caution scrubbing delicate or highly polished plastics; it’s possible to see light hairline scratches if the surface isn’t hard-surface durable. (There is a Scotch-Brite ‘Delicate Care’ Scrub Sponge for more fragile surfaces. I don’t use it, but I do use a lighter touch with the blue if I’m unsure.)
The cost is about $1 per sponge. I’ve tried using less expensive versions of blue scrub sponges but found a real difference in quality; I stick with Scotch-Brite. (The Scotch-Brite 9-pack comes with a weird sponge that bleeds blue when first used; I like the more standard sponges I get with the 6-pack. Different factories I guess…)
Lately, I’m seeing more versions of scrub sponges covered by a nylon mesh net; Scotch-Brite has one called ‘Dobie’ that I use for my dishes. (I try not to confuse my dish sponge with my work sponges:) I’m not entirely confident they wouldn’t scratch a surface (I’ve found cautions on similar products) and the mesh netting frays sooner than I would expect, so I stick with the Blue Scrub Sponge.
The Scrub Sponges can be washed/sanitized and reused, though a day will come when the scrub pad loses its zest for scrubbing. If laundering in the washing machine, run them alone or in a mesh laundry bag to prevent the scrub pads and cleaning cloths from leaving pills on each other.
So there you have it~ one of my best secrets! Well, not a secret really. When customers ask what I do to get the counters so silky smooth, I tell them too. It’s the Scotch-Brite Blue Scrub Sponge. Can’t imagine cleaning a bathtub/stove top/sink/countertop/shower surround without it!
What do you use to gently scrub surfaces?
