The Best Sponge For Your Kitchen Isn't Scrub Daddy, Per Consumer Reports

Washing dishes doesn't always have to be such a struggle, especially if you have the right sponge. But given the vast market for this type of kitchen apparatus, finding the right sponge can take some trial and error — after all, some don't get into those hard-to-reach crevices quite like others. We've covered top picks from Consumer Reports on items ranging from electric induction ranges to brands of store-bought bread, and now this product tester is back yet again to recommend the best sponge for your kitchen. Spoiler alert — it isn't Scrub Daddy. Consumer Report's top pick for the best brand of sponge is the Hawkins New York Lurex Sponge.

The Hawkins New York Lurex Sponge is made from polyurethane and lurex for a durable and easy-to-clean scrubbing utensil. They come in packs of three, measuring 3 inches by 5 inches each. And with a variety of different colors to choose from, such as metallic gold, silver, and bronze to warm and cool-toned hues, these sponges are more than just a cleaning tool; they are a pretty addition to your countertop, too. The sponges are $6 for a set, meaning they come in at $2 each. Compared to $7.99 for a six-pack of your typical Scotch-Brite polyester sponges, these Hawkins New York Sponges are clearly a bit of a luxury buy. But when considering their long-lasting nature along with their dishwasher-safe properties, these sponges seem to live up to their price tag.

Don't just take our word for it; customers give these sponges great reviews, too. "A great looking, very effective sponge," one reviewer posted on the Hawkins New York site; "When I first saw these sponges, I thought they were just pretty. But it turned out they're a real workhorse for stubborn scrub needs." Yet another shopper called it the perfect dish sponge, commenting, "Far superior to any other dish sponge I've ever used. Holds shape, and soap. Dries quickly. Cleans dishes quickly. Looks cool. Doesn't fall apart." It should be noted that the sponges can flake a bit initially when being put into use, but that does go away after a few washes. And in terms of longevity, these sponges can last up to 3 months, maintaining their shape and their metallic sheen after repeated use. 

To preserve your New York Lurex Sponge to last its longest, clean it thoroughly and regularly. Sponges are known to be the dirtiest item in your kitchen, trapping food-borne germs in its pores; but taking the extra step of cleaning it with some vinegar or just throwing it in the dishwasher can preserve its life on your counter. The next time you find yourself in need of a new kitchen sponge for your sink, you may want to consider the New York Lurex Sponge as a viable option.