2023-12-10 17:00:58
Are you tired of scratching your pots and pans from scouring pads? Know which materials are suitable for each surface and how to identify them by color.
Last update: December 10, 2023
The range of scourers, sponges and natural fibers for cleaning is very wide. This is not due to an aesthetic issue, but to the different composition of objects designed for point surfaces. Generally, green is used on dishes, but there are types of scrubbers to sanitize ceramic hobs, tiles, grills and other surfaces.
It is important to know which is the ideal material for each one, as well as learn to identify them by color. Keep reading to find out the uses of each scouring pad and reach the market without hesitation when choosing!
What are scouring pads and what are they for?
Scouring pads are cleaning objects present in kitchens and other spaces in the home. These are the main elements for sanitizing dishes, pots, pans and various surfaces. They may come attached to a scouring sponge or with loose fibers.
The composition ranges from synthetic materials to natural, ecological options. Some are designed to clean soft surfaces, while others include abrasive properties that remove dirt and stuck-on debris.
For this reason, it is valuable to know what type of scouring pad to use on each element, in order not to damage sensitive surfaces. Applying the same one for everything is a common mistake in the kitchen, as is selecting them according to your favorite color.. Let’s see what materials are suitable in each case.
14 types of scourers according to their material
There are sponges for all types of surfaces. Some options even combine two different materials, with one side for cleaning dishes and a rougher side for hard objects. Forget about scratching your favorite pots again because you don’t know when to use each scrubber.
1. Polyamide
One of the softest sponges for cleaning dishes
You may not know it by name, but it is the most common sponge in the kitchen. It is nothing more than a scouring pad that is attached to a sponge at the bottom. Among the different uses of sponges, their role in washing dishes, pots and cutlery stands out. It is sold in various colors, although the most common are green, blue and yellow.
It is known as a nail-saving sponge and, Thanks to its softness, it allows good cleaning of the dishes without damaging them. The roughest part should be reserved for items that do not have a Teflon base or other material that tends to scratch. It is quick drying and does not retain odors. Even so, you should avoid leaving it in humid places to avoid the accumulation of bacteria.
2. Screen
Although many are made with synthetic materials, it is currently possible to find options with a biodegradable mixture of cellulose, cotton and myribalite.
One of the variants that allows use on many surfaces, although it is usually intended for body hygiene, due to its exfoliating nature and its softness. Delicate surfaces, dishes and even clothing can also be cleaned..
3. White fiber
Another element designed for bathroom hygiene, especially for delicate surfaces such as ceramics, glass and marble. Therefore, you can apply this fiber in window cleaning, although always with caution and gentleness. Scouring pads of this type come in a roll or cut into a sponge shape.
4. Esparto grass
This option is emerging as a natural and biodegradable alternative to synthetic sponges and scouring pads.
Esparto is a natural material made from various grass plants. It is used for fabrics and crafts, as well as for making durable scouring pads that can be applied to non-stick surfaces.
They are capable of cleaning grease and grime, as well as removing embedded debris. Nevertheless, You must avoid rubbing with soft objects, as they can affect the material.
5. Stainless steel
Metal scourers are perfect for stainless steel and aluminum kitchenware.
Known as a metal scouring pad, it is the hardest object on the list. It comes in a round shape and is small in size, so much so that it fits in the palm of your hand. While most are interlocking stainless steel, they can also be made from aluminum. It is the element intended for adhered grease, stuck debris and complex grime in general..
Therefore, it is usually used in pots, pans and woks, although it can scratch any smooth surface. It is also used to clean the oven, grills and kitchens when dirt is very stuck on. It works for strong scrubbing, although only on hard objects, so avoid Teflon and the like.
6. Bamboo
It is made with bamboo cellulose, which allows the capture of fats and oils.
Bamboo is considered a more hygienic scrubber due to its antibacterial nature, which makes it ideal for use in the kitchen. It is resistant and has good durability. Use it to remove grease and grime from dishes.
7. Pumice stone
Pumice stone can be purchased on the market in cheap and practical presentations.
Just as this material works to clean rough areas of the skin, it is also used as a cleansing element. Due to its characteristics, pumice stone It is ideal for removing tartar and grime from bathrooms and kitchens.. This is another variant intended for stubborn dirt and not suitable for delicate surfaces.
8. Green fiber
The hardness of its fibers is intermediate, so it offers great versatility in cleaning.
An economical and resistant variant designed for various surfaces, such as faucets and bathroom sinks. It is considered of intermediate hardness and can come cut or rolled, if you need more quantity. It is also not recommended to apply it to glass and tiles.
9. From coconut fibers
Ecological materials are increasingly common in homes due to their ecological nature, especially compared to synthetic fibers. In this sense, coconut scourers, often made into brushes, They are perfect for cleaning various items, including soft surfaces.
10. Loofah
These scrubbers are made of biodegradable and 100% natural loofah.
The luffa sponge is another biodegradable variant for those looking to be more sustainable at home. Luffa comes from the plant family Cucurbitaceae and produces soft scouring pads that do not scratch surfaces. Therefore, can be used to scrub any item of dishes.
11. Melamine
Melamine sponges make household cleaning easier.
Ideal for cleaning utensils, walls, stoves and even some glass. Melanin scrubbers need to be soaked in water before being applied. You can clean various objects such as ceramics, silver jewelry and even rubber slippers, although you should avoid it on ceramic hobs and sensitive surfaces.
12. Vegetable fibers
Brushes of various materials, such as bamboo or wood, are usually made with plant fibers. They work from wood similar to coconut ones, so They have the ability to contact soft surfaces without damaging them.
13. Copper
Copper is a resistant element, so scourers made of this material have good durability. Resists oxidation and allows kitchen objects to shine. Avoid them on soft, non-stick surfaces.
14. Silicone
Finally, these objects are made with a hygienic and flexible material, which allows them to be applied to all types of surfaces. Use them on pots, pans and tableware in general.
How to identify the types of scouring pads according to their color
If you go to the market and can’t quite identify the types of scourers you need, remember that each color is designed for a specific cleaning. Beyond the materials, the range identifies use on delicate and hard surfaces.
Negro. They are usually made of stainless steel, since they are associated with hard fibers to sanitize metals, ovens and grills. Be careful on soft surfaces.
Verde. The most common sponge for dishes, cutlery and kitchen utensils. At the top it usually brings a rougher element for countertops and hard pots.
Blue or yellow. Delicate objects, such as tableware, ceramic hobs and glass. Avoid scratches on surfaces.
Prevent the accumulation of bacteria on your scouring pads
Whatever the material or color, Scouring pads tend to accumulate bacteria due to contact with dirt and food debris. Therefore, in addition to selecting the right variant, it is important to maintain some hygiene strategies.
It is essential to disinfect your kitchen sponges regularly, something that can be done in the washing machine or by placing it in the microwave for a few minutes. Adhering food debris should also be removed and opt for a replacement when they have reached their useful life. When replacing them, keep in mind the information you learned today about the types of scouring pads.
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