How do I use and care for Dish Sponges?Updated 4 hours ago
TL;DR: Dish Sponges are made from FSC wood-pulp cellulose. Wet them to expand, use like a normal sponge, wash gently (max 30 degrees), avoid bleach and softeners, and compost at end of life.
Last reviewed: April 2026
Why are these sponges different?
✓ Plant-fibre cellulose
Dish Sponges are made from natural wood pulp cellulose and cotton. They arrive dehydrated to reduce shipping volume and expand into a soft, absorbent sponge when you wet them. Because they're made from plant fibres, they're biodegradable and suitable for home composting.
How do I use them?
✓ Steps 1 and 2
Submerge the dehydrated sponge in water or hold under a running tap. It will expand to full size.
Apply cleaner to the sponge for washing dishes, wiping surfaces, or general cleaning.
✓ Steps 3 and 4
Rinse thoroughly after use and wring out excess water. Avoid twisting tightly to preserve the fibres.
If the sponge dries out between uses, simply re-hydrate by wetting it again.
How do I clean and care for them?
✓ Machine washing
Machine washable on a gentle or delicate cycle at cold to moderate temperatures (max 30 degrees). Air dry between uses. Direct sunlight helps drying and freshness where possible.
⚠ Avoid
Don't use bleach or fabric softeners. These reduce lifespan and affect compostability. Replace when excessively worn or if an odour develops.
Any quick tips to get more from them?
✓ Dry it out
Store so it can dry between uses. A dry sponge lasts longer.
✓ Heavy grease
Pre-treat with a little Dishwashing Liquid and warm water before scrubbing.
✓ Dedicate sponges
Keep one for delicate surfaces and another for heavy scrubbing. Both will last longer.
What are the specs?
✓ Materials and certifications

New at Koh?
Dish Starter Kit pairs Dishwashing Liquid with Dish Sponges and everything else you need to get started.

Subscribe & Save with Dishwashing Liquid
Never run out. Subscribe to Dishwashing Liquid every 2 months. Already subscribed? Add Dish Sponges as a one-time add-on to your next delivery.
Browse all Dish Sponges articles

