Most kitchen sponges are very wasteful, they don't last very long and also harbour a lot of bacteria. They are also made of plastic, so don't break down when you throw them away. There are many alternatives to plastic scrubbers and sponges, which often last a lot longer, and will break down in landfill when they reach the end of their lives.

If you prefer a scrubber with a good handle and bristles, wooden options are available, some of which have exchangeable heads so you don't have to throw the product away each time. An alternative that could last you a lot longer is a silicone scrubber. These are cheap and very long-lasting. They can also be put in the dishwasher to regularly disinfect them, so are more hygienic than most sponges. Although silicone is not as good for the environment as using natural materials, the durability of this product reduces the waste enough to weigh it out!

Another option for complete zero-waste, is compostable scrubbers, made of sustainably sourced organic  materials that can be cut up and disposed of in your own compost heap! These can be a little more expensive and harder to source, but are perfect for those looking for a zero-waste lifestyle.