Popping a dirty sponge in the microwave for two minutes will kill 99% of its pathogens, says a new study in the Journal of Environmental Health.

Professor Gabriel Bitton said it was the heat that killed the buggers, rather than radiation. Microwaves work by exciting water molecules.

The professor advised to use slightly moist, not dry, sponges to minimize risk of fire.

Don't microwave metal scrubbing pads either, or you'll have an exciting science experiment. — BEN POPKEN

Microwave ovens sterilise sponges [BBC via BoingBoing]