The “magic” cleaning power of melamine sponges may come at a cost, as researchers have found that these popular cleaning tools shed microplastic fibers when worn down. According to a study published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology, melamine sponges could be releasing over a trillion microplastic fibers worldwide every month.
Melamine foam, the material used to make these sponges, is known for its abrasive properties that can easily remove tough stains and scuffs without the need for additional cleaning products. However, as the sponges wear down from use, the foam breaks down into smaller pieces that release microplastic fibers into the environment.
The researchers found that sponges made from denser foam wear down more slowly and produce fewer microplastic fibers than less dense sponges. They estimated that a single sponge releases approximately 6.5 million fibers per gram of worn-out sponge, and with the assumption that all sponges are worn down by 10%, they calculated that 1.55 trillion fibers from melamine sponges could be released every month.
To address this issue, the researchers recommend that manufacturers create denser, tougher sponges that are more resistant to wear. They also suggest that consumers opt for natural cleaning products that do not use plastics and consider installing filtration systems to capture microplastic fibers in the home or in wastewater treatment plants.
This study sheds light on the environmental impact of everyday cleaning products and highlights the importance of considering the materials used in these products to minimize the release of microplastics into the environment.