Review on Scotch-Brite Non-Scratch Scrub Sponges - Ideal for Dishwashing and Kitchen Cleaning, Pack of 9 Sponges by Tina Wells

I grew up using "tea towels" (yes, I'm old!) like tea towels, but only for washing dishes, not for bodies. When I was visiting friends a few years ago, I wanted to help and volunteered to do the dishes. They used these sponges, Scotch-Brite sponges that don't scratch the skin. I was hesitant at first, thinking it would stink or mold in no time. But to my surprise, when I took it out of the box, it didn't smell. I wet it and poured a dose of dish soap down the middle of the side of the sponge and mashed it up a bit so the whole sponge was soapy. The slight S-shape of the sponge is key; This makes it very comfortable to hold, no matter what you are cleaning. On the back is a soft cleaning brush that can be used on non-stick cookware without scratching it. Washing dishes this way, without a sink filled with soapy water, saves liters of water and a lot of time. Since then I have only used this brand and shape of sponge. BLUE! I have one in the kitchen for dishes, countertops, inside and outside of the fridge and one in the bathroom for the sink and tub. As long as I rinse them well and let them dry in a small soap dish in the kitchen and bathroom, they dry quickly and don't smell. I buy a large pack of 9 sponges for $6.74 which is only 75 cents each. I would say each kitchen sponge lasts 2-3 weeks. When I have enough dishes to use the dishwasher, the sponge is placed on the top shelf for a thorough cleaning and disinfection with very hot water and it's good as new. Do not put it in the microwave to clean it. you will ruin it I have to say I am completely shocked as the photos were sent with some other (bad) reviews. I have never had a sponge off the cleaning side, never been as dirty as the pictures show, never fallen apart or any of the other nasty things shown in these photos. My guess is that they have been misused (for heavy duty work like mopping floors or cleaning ovens. They are not intended for that purpose), have been used for too long and have never been cleaned. I've also seen complaints that the new sponges were "wet" when the packaging was opened. All high quality sponges should be slightly damp when new, otherwise they will be dry and brittle, deformed and cracked when you receive them. Moisture is not a disadvantage or reason for complaint. I HIGHLY and wholeheartedly recommend these wonderful, very affordable sponges! My guests love it so much I always give them one to take home to try! I will never go back to old washcloths.