Survey: One in two people change their kitchen sponge too rarely

The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) warns that pathogenic germs can multiply rapidly in damp cloths and sponges. Changing them regularly reduces the risk of infections that can lead to gastrointestinal problems. The agency recommends changing dishcloths or kitchen towels as often as possible, at least once a week.

However, kitchen textiles hang over some heaters or on some towel hooks for significantly longer. This is shown by a YouGov survey for which 2,673 people from Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Italy and France were surveyed. Respondents are particularly negligent when it comes to dishwashing sponges. More than half of respondents change their sponges less than once a week: 26 percent change them every two to three weeks, 16 percent once a month, and 13 percent even less frequently. However, 2 percent of respondents adhere to the "new day, new sponge" principle – they change it daily. And 12 percent need a fresh sponge several times a week.

The situation is more exemplary with kitchen rags: 10 percent of respondents even said they change them daily. 36 percent change them several times a week. A similar proportion of respondents (32 percent) change a fresh rag every week. Only 17 percent change them less frequently.

A similar picture emerges with kitchen towels. 38 percent said they change them once or several times a week, while 9 percent even change their towels daily. Only 14 percent change their tea towels less than once a week.

Whether it's a tea towel or a rag, after use, it's better not to leave the textiles crumpled up, but rather to lay them down or hang them up so they can dry thoroughly. Used towels should be washed at a minimum of 60 degrees Celsius, advises the BfR.