A sponge (/ˈspʌndʒ/ SPUNJ) is a cleaning aid made of soft, porous material. Typically used for cleaning impervious surfaces, sponges are especially good at absorbing water and water-based solutions.

In the past, people used to make kitchen sponges from sea-sponge. However, today, most kitchen sponges are made from plastics, such as polyester or polyurethane. They are non-recyclable and non-biodegradable.

The softer layer, which recreates the feel of a natural sponge, is usually made of polyurethane or some other foamed polymer; while the thin, scratchy, dark green layer, which serves as a scouring pad, is made of harder polyethylene mesh.

Common sponges found in the supermarket are made with polyurethane, a petroleum-based material. This means, along with releasing micro-plastics into the environment, those innocent looking sponges are made from oil-based plastics too.

The sponge is about 88% effective for women who've never given birth. For those who have given birth, the sponge is about 80% effective. These estimates are based on perfect use every time. In comparison, condoms are 98% effective when used properly, and birth control pills are 99% effective when used properly.

The approximately 5,000 living sponge species are classified in the phylum Porifera, which is composed of three distinct groups, the Hexactinellida (glass sponges), the Demospongia, and the Calcarea (calcareous sponges). Sponges are characterized by the possession of a feeding system unique among animals.

The approximately 5,000 living sponge species are classified in the phylum Porifera, which is composed of three distinct groups, the Hexactinellida (glass sponges), the Demospongia, and the Calcarea (calcareous sponges). Sponges are characterized by the possession of a feeding system unique among animals.

The ancient sponge appeared about 2.5 billion years ago - the first animal. Coming in many sizes and shapes, sponge bodies are a loose assemblage of cells held together by a special protein called collagen which is present in all animals. In addition, sponges have microscopic crystalline spicules that act as a skeleton.

Generally, traditional kitchen sponges containing plastics are not eco-friendly. Natural sea sponges are eco-friendly sponges. However, some synthetic options, like cellulose sponges, are sustainable, recyclable, and/ or biodegradable, making them a good eco-friendly option.

Question: Do you get natural sponges in fresh water? Answer: Most sponges live in salt water; only about 150 species live in fresh water.So far scientists have identified about 5,000 different species of sponges - all colours, forms and sizes.

Generally, traditional kitchen sponges containing plastics are not eco-friendly. Natural sea sponges are eco-friendly sponges. However, some synthetic options, like cellulose sponges, are sustainable, recyclable, and/ or biodegradable, making them a good eco-friendly option.

Sea sponges have antimicrobial properties, meaning they naturally inhibit the growth of bacteria and mold. They are also hypoallergenic, making them suitable for all skin types. Sea sponges are a natural and sustainable option for skin care.