The goal of this research is to determine bacterial levels and diversity in kitchen sponges as well as effective household disinfection methods. This research will begin with sterile sponges, first testing the new sponges for any existing bacterium. The sponges will then be used to wash dirty dishes, followed by testing each sponge for bacterial levels and diversity. Finally, the contaminated sponges will be disinfected through multiple methods, including microwave, dishwasher, and air drying. The significance of the research is to determine the most effective sanitation methods for kitchen sponges and the bacterial levels and diversity. Kitchen sponges are commonly used to clean dishes and with that comes the potential for cross-contamination from foods with bacteria, viruses, and molds. Illness from these pathogens contribute to hospitalizations and it is important to study the types of bacteria and the most effective method for elimination to prevent illness through cross-contamination.

            This research will be conducted by experimenting using dirty kitchen sponges. Each sponge will be tested using agar plates, one sample will be taken while the sponge is still damp, before disinfecting, then another after each disinfection method. The number of bacterial colonies will be observed after incubation.

            What are the bacterial levels and diversity of a dirty kitchen sponge and what is the most effective way to disinfect a kitchen sponge? It is believed that a dirty kitchen sponge contains a large and diverse number of bacteria and the most effective method for sanitizing the sponge is to use the microwave. It may be discovered that a combination of high heat and the time exposed to the heat will increase the effectiveness of the disinfection method. There is a possibility that none of the sanitation methods are effective in eliminating bacteria on a kitchen sponge.