“A health hazard”: according to scientists, here’s why you should absolutely not use “magic sponges” to clean your walls

THE “magic sponges” these small white squares made of melamine foam, have become essential for many people. Indeed, they are extremely effective when it comes to removing the most stubborn stains on almost all surfaces. Above all, they allow you to get rid of these stains without too much effort. Simply moisten them and then lightly rub the surface to be cleaned and the stain has disappeared “as if by magic”. Another big advantage: their ultra-attractive price which makes them even more accessible and popular. But because there had to be a but, a recent scientific study reveals an unsuspected danger linked to their use. This product, although so practical, could have a considerable impact on health and the environment.

Why should you be careful with magic sponges?

According to a study published in Environmental Science & Technology magic sponges release many microplastic fibers when they wear out. These fibers, invisible to the naked eye, disperse into the environment and this poses a serious ecological problem. Researchers from Nanjing University have discovered that a single sponge can emit up to 6.5 million microplastic fibers per gram of used sponge. These particles, too small to be filtered, end up in rivers, seas and oceans. “The wear and tear of sponges could release 6.5 million MPF ​​(environmental microplastic fibres)/g, which could suggest a global emission of 4.9 trillion environmental microplastic fibres due to sponge consumption” reports Health Magazine.

The problem doesn’t stop there. Once in the water, these fibers can be ingested by fish, disrupting the marine ecosystem. Worse still, these microplastics can move up the food chain and reach humans, which could have consequences on our health. Plastics are not only made up of polymers, but also of chemical additives that can interfere with our hormonal system. Anses had already highlighted the dangers of chemical contaminants present in plastics in 2020. “Plastics are composed not only of polymers, but also of a mixture of different additives, which give properties to the plastic: flexibility, rigidity, fire resistance, etc. These additives are potential chemical contaminants. In addition, bacteria that attach to the surface of plastics can be biological contaminants.” explained the National Food Safety Agency.

What can I use instead of magic sponges?

To limit these effects, the authors of the study recommend improving the composition of magic sponges by making them more resistant to wear. Versions made with denser foams degrade more slowly and release fewer microplastics. Otherwise, it would be wiser to turn to more environmentally friendly alternatives, such as biodegradable natural sponges made from plant materials, clay stone or even baking soda, which is just as effective at saying goodbye to the most stubborn stains.