Tips & Tricks To Make Your Scrub Daddy Last Longer (& What Not To Do)

Sponges are a hotbed for germs. They're full of tiny nooks, they often touch organic debris, and they tend to stay damp for a while — all of which causes bacteria to thrive. Add in the possibility of cross-contamination, and you can see why it's so important to keep your sponges clean and replace them regularly. If you're a Scrub Daddy devotee, though, replacing them often can get a tad expensive. You can avoid replacing your Scrub Daddy too often by drying it thoroughly after every use, sanitizing it regularly, and avoiding harsh surfaces or chemicals.

Scrub Daddy's longer shelf life is one of its main claims to fame, alongside its signature FlexTexture material that softens in warm water and stiffens in cold water. Because it's sturdier than a regular foam sponge, you don't need to apply as much pressure to lift debris, and the sponge can stay intact for a surprisingly long time. The FlexTexture also resists odors for up to eight weeks. Some people use the same Scrub Daddy for months with no issues. But Scrub Daddy doesn't specify how long the product lasts, and that's because it varies depending on how you use it. Here's what to do (and what not to do) to keep your Scrub Daddy in good condition for as long as possible.

Properly caring for your Scrub Daddy will help it to last longer. To prevent excessive bacterial growth or odors, rinse your Scrub Daddy clean after every use. Allow it to thoroughly dry by giving it a good squeeze and then propping it on its side, rather than laying it flat. For occasional deeper cleans, you can toss your Scrub Daddy into the top rack of the dishwasher, or sanitize it by microwaving it for up to 60 seconds.

According to Scrub Daddy's FAQ, FlexTexture deteriorates over time like any soft material. It's inevitable, but how fast it happens is up to you, and it largely depends on what you don't do. Gentle use will get the most life out of your Scrub Daddy. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, rough textures, or excessive heat, all of which can erode the material more quickly.

If you use your Scrub Daddy to wash dishes, keep in mind, as durable as they may be, it's not advisable to wait until they fall apart before replacing them. While sanitizing is helpful to keep your sponge cleaner for longer, it isn't enough to completely remove the risks of cross-contamination, so regular replacement is still important. Once your Scrub Daddy starts to lose its texture or stops being as effective, it's time to swap it out.