Also known as "chemical sponges", these natural rubber sponges are designed to remove soot from fires in a dry state.
The tiny porous cells of the sponge lift soot from surfaces quickly without smearing. Ideal for painted surfaces, wallpaper, acoustical tile, panelling, lamp shades, paintings and other surfaces. These individually wrapped sponges may be reused many times by washing.
What It Is
Despite the name, a "chemical sponge" contains no cleaning chemical. SpongeCo describes its dry sponges as 100% natural vulcanised latex rubber, chemical-free, used dry to lift dust, dirt, soot, lint and pet hair from dry surfaces without leaving a residue. The rubber grabs loose, dry particles; it is not an abrasive and it does not dissolve anything.
Specifications
| Brand | SpongeCo |
|---|---|
| Size | 8 inch (other dimensions not published) |
| Material | Natural rubber (SpongeCo: vulcanised natural latex rubber) |
| Method | Dry — no water, no chemical |
| Packaging | Individually wrapped |
| Reusable | Yes, by washing |
| CCW SKU | AX27 |
Dry means dry
A chemical sponge lifts soot by adsorption. Introduce water or a cleaning solution and the soot turns to a smear that is driven into the surface — and on a painted wall or a ceiling that is permanent.
Soot removal is always dry first. Wipe in one direction, turn the sponge to a clean face constantly, and only move to wet methods once the loose soot is off.
Work top down
Soot falls. Start at the ceiling and work down so you are not re-soiling surfaces you have already done.
How to Use It
- Test on a small, out-of-sight area first, particularly on flat paint, wallpaper and artwork.
- Wipe with light pressure in one direction. Do not scrub back and forth — that grinds soot into the surface.
- Turn to a clean face as soon as the working face darkens.
- When the sponge is loaded, set it aside and use a fresh one. Wash loaded sponges later.
- Once the loose soot is off, move to wet cleaning for any film that remains — for example with OmniPro Soot Wash.
Washing and Reuse
CCW's guidance is that these sponges can be reused many times by washing. Wash in clean water, rinse well and let the sponge dry completely before its next use — a damp sponge will smear soot rather than lift it. SpongeCo does not publish a laundering method.
Protect yourself
Fire residues contain combustion products that should not be inhaled or left on skin. Respiratory protection, gloves and eye protection are appropriate on a fire job, and the splash goggles we stock fit over prescription glasses.
These sponges are natural latex rubber. Anyone with a latex sensitivity should wear suitable gloves when handling them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called a chemical sponge?
It is a trade name. The sponge contains no chemical and is used dry.
Will it clean greasy or wet soot?
It is made for dry, loose soot. Oily or protein smoke residue needs a wet cleaning method once the loose material is off.
8 inch or 6 inch?
Same material and method. The larger sponge covers walls and ceilings faster; the smaller one is easier to control on lamp shades, frames and detail. See the 6 inch sponge.
Can I use it on smoke-damaged contents as well as walls?
Yes. The listed surfaces include lamp shades and paintings. Test first on anything valuable.
Related Products
Tell us the job and surfaces you are working on and we will help you choose the right soot removal products.
