Where not to use a melamine sponge: basic mistakes and their consequences
Using a dry sponge, washing pans and pots with it, cleaning stainless steel – these and other prohibitions are something you should definitely know if you have a melamine sponge in your home, Ukr.Media reports.
Use a dry sponge
The peculiarity of the melamine sponge is that when wet, it cleans much better and more efficiently. While when dry, it can even cause damage due to abrasive particles. For example, melamine sponge is recommended for use on hobs, but when dry, it can scratch them.
Use a sponge on painted metal surfaces
If you decide to use a melamine sponge to clean minor dirt on painted metal, such as a car hood, do not rush to do it. The abrasiveness of the sponge can be compared to sandpaper, and you risk doing more harm than good.
Holding a sponge without gloves
Think for yourself: if a melamine sponge can clean any, even the toughest dirt, what will it do to your skin? Always use the product with gloves. Moreover, melamine is toxic and if you forget to wash your hands after cleaning, start cooking or touch your eyes or mouth, it can be dangerous.
Sponge the countertops
Don't even think about using a sponge on a wooden or stone countertop (marble, granite). You risk erasing the protective layer, making the surface more vulnerable to water, dulling, and losing its aesthetic appeal. The same applies to wood or natural stone countertops. Protecting wood with oil or varnish doesn't mean that the rule is canceled.
Sponge pots and pans
If you decide to try replacing a regular dishwashing sponge with a melamine one, we hasten to warn you. The non-stick coating may deteriorate. Also, harmful particles risk getting into small cracks on the surface and poisoning the food when heated. It is permissible to clean the bottom of pots and pans from the inside out to remove carbon deposits, but in no case inside.
Trying to brighten stainless steel
Stainless steel will definitely not get any better after cleaning with a melamine sponge. Sure, it might be okay after one time, but it’s not worth repeating. It can wear away the finish that seals most stainless steel appliances, leaving you with a scratched, tarnished appliance.
Clean the oven from the inside
We especially do not recommend cleaning the area around the oven fan. Firstly, after cleaning, you may find streaks on the oven surface. Secondly, small particles from the fan blades during operation and from the walls will rise as a result of heating and settle on the food inside the cabinet. Agree, it is not very pleasant to eat a dish sprinkled with melamine crumbs.
Use a sponge on a surface without first testing it
If you are sure that the sponge will not damage the surface, test it on a small area. We recommend doing this with each new detergent to save things. Despite the fact that there are enough restrictions on the use of the melamine sponge, do not give it up. The product is really effective if used correctly.
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