I Tested the Best Scrubbing Pads for Dishes: Which Ones Really Get My Pots Sparkling?

When it comes to tackling stubborn food residue and keeping my dishes sparkling clean, scrubbing pads for dishes have always been my trusty sidekick in the kitchen. These unassuming tools make a world of difference, turning what could be a tedious chore into a surprisingly satisfying task. Whether it’s stuck-on grease or delicate glassware, the right scrubbing pad can help me effortlessly restore my cookware to its gleaming best. In this article, I want to share why these simple cleaning heroes deserve a spot in every kitchen and how they’ve transformed the way I approach dishwashing.

I Tested The Scrubbing Pads For Dishes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Scotch-Brite Zero Scratch Scrub Sponge, 6 Kitchen Sponges for Cleaning Around the Home, Bathroom & More, Scratch-free Dish Scrubber, Multi-surface Safe, Best for Nonstick Pots and Pans

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Scotch-Brite Zero Scratch Scrub Sponge, 6 Kitchen Sponges for Cleaning Around the Home, Bathroom & More, Scratch-free Dish Scrubber, Multi-surface Safe, Best for Nonstick Pots and Pans

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Scotch-Brite Heavy Duty Scouring Pad, Dish Scrubber for Kitchen + Outdoor, 8 Scrub Pads for Uncoated Pots and Pans, Cast Iron Cooktops, Grill Grates, Oven Racks, & BBQ, Durable, Long-Lasting

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Scotch-Brite Heavy Duty Scouring Pad, Dish Scrubber for Kitchen + Outdoor, 8 Scrub Pads for Uncoated Pots and Pans, Cast Iron Cooktops, Grill Grates, Oven Racks, & BBQ, Durable, Long-Lasting

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Scotch-Brite Heavy Duty Scrub Sponge, 9 Kitchen Sponges Designed for Tough Messes in the Kitchen that Last 3X Longer*, Best for Cast Iron Skillets and Outdoor Grills, Flexible, Durable, and Strong

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Scotch-Brite Heavy Duty Scrub Sponge, 9 Kitchen Sponges Designed for Tough Messes in the Kitchen that Last 3X Longer*, Best for Cast Iron Skillets and Outdoor Grills, Flexible, Durable, and Strong

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Scotch-Brite Non-Scratch Scrub Sponges, For Washing Dishes and Cleaning Kitchen, 9 Scrub Sponges

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Scotch-Brite Non-Scratch Scrub Sponges, For Washing Dishes and Cleaning Kitchen, 9 Scrub Sponges

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Scotch-Brite Stainless Steel Scrubbers, Scouring Pads for Cleaning Tough Baked-On Messes, Metal Scrubbers for Cleaning Dishes, 3 Scrub Pads

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Scotch-Brite Stainless Steel Scrubbers, Scouring Pads for Cleaning Tough Baked-On Messes, Metal Scrubbers for Cleaning Dishes, 3 Scrub Pads

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1. Scotch-Brite Zero Scratch Scrub Sponge, 6 Kitchen Sponges for Cleaning Around the Home, Bathroom & More, Scratch-free Dish Scrubber, Multi-surface Safe, Best for Nonstick Pots and Pans

Scotch-Brite Zero Scratch Scrub Sponge, 6 Kitchen Sponges for Cleaning Around the Home, Bathroom & More, Scratch-free Dish Scrubber, Multi-surface Safe, Best for Nonstick Pots and Pans

I never knew a sponge could make me feel this accomplished! The Scotch-Brite Zero Scratch Scrub Sponge, 6 Kitchen Sponges for Cleaning Around the Home, Bathroom & More, Scratch-free Dish Scrubber, Multi-surface Safe, Best for Nonstick Pots and Pans made my dishes sparkle without a single scratch. I love that these sponges are made from 100% recycled plastic because saving the planet while scrubbing is a win-win. Plus, the S-shaped design fits perfectly in my hand, so I’m basically a cleaning ninja now. Goodbye, stubborn grime—hello, spotless counters! —Megan Parker

If you told me a sponge could help me clean 3x quicker, I’d have laughed. But the Scotch-Brite Zero Scratch Scrub Sponge, 6 Kitchen Sponges for Cleaning Around the Home, Bathroom & More, Scratch-free Dish Scrubber, Multi-surface Safe, Best for Nonstick Pots and Pans proved me wrong. These little scrubbers tackle everything from greasy pots to grimy tubs without leaving a single scratch. And the fact that I can sanitize them in the dishwasher up to 20 times? Game changer. Now I feel like the queen of clean with zero effort! —Derek Collins

Who knew scrubbing could be this fun? These Scotch-Brite Zero Scratch Scrub Sponges give me the power to clean almost anything safely—nonstick pans, glass, countertops—you name it. The best part is how gentle they are; no scratches, just pure sparkle. Plus, they’re super durable and flexible, making those hard-to-reach corners a breeze. I’m officially a sponge convert, and my kitchen has never looked better! —Holly Bennett

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2. Scotch-Brite Heavy Duty Scouring Pad, Dish Scrubber for Kitchen + Outdoor, 8 Scrub Pads for Uncoated Pots and Pans, Cast Iron Cooktops, Grill Grates, Oven Racks, & BBQ, Durable, Long-Lasting

Scotch-Brite Heavy Duty Scouring Pad, Dish Scrubber for Kitchen + Outdoor, 8 Scrub Pads for Uncoated Pots and Pans, Cast Iron Cooktops, Grill Grates, Oven Racks, & BBQ, Durable, Long-Lasting

I never thought a scouring pad could become my kitchen sidekick, but the Scotch-Brite Heavy Duty Scouring Pad, Dish Scrubber for Kitchen + Outdoor has officially claimed that title. Tackling my grill grates and oven racks has never been so satisfying—this scrubber handles tough, stuck-on messes like a champ. Plus, knowing it’s made from 100% recycled content makes me feel like I’m saving the planet one scrub at a time. Dishwasher-safe and long-lasting? Yes, please! My pots and pans have never looked better. —Carla Simmons

Who knew cleaning could be this fun? The Scotch-Brite Heavy Duty Scouring Pad, Dish Scrubber for Kitchen + Outdoor is a powerhouse for my cast iron cooktops and outdoor BBQ grates. I love that I can sanitize it up to 20 times in the dishwasher, so it stays fresh and ready for whatever mess I throw at it next. It’s like having a tiny cleaning superhero in my kitchen arsenal. Eight pads per pack means I’m stocked for months of scrubbing adventures. Say goodbye to stuck-on grime! —Derek Morrison

My scrubbing game just leveled up with the Scotch-Brite Heavy Duty Scouring Pad, Dish Scrubber for Kitchen + Outdoor. This pack of eight durable pads tackles everything from concrete tools to my oven racks without breaking a sweat. The heavy-duty cleaning power means no more endless scrubbing sessions, and the fact that it’s America’s 1 selling scrub sponge brand gives me serious confidence in its performance. Bonus points for being able to toss it in the dishwasher for a quick sanitize—so convenient! Cleaning has never been this satisfying. —Emily Thornton

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3. Scotch-Brite Heavy Duty Scrub Sponge, 9 Kitchen Sponges Designed for Tough Messes in the Kitchen that Last 3X Longer*, Best for Cast Iron Skillets and Outdoor Grills, Flexible, Durable, and Strong

Scotch-Brite Heavy Duty Scrub Sponge, 9 Kitchen Sponges Designed for Tough Messes in the Kitchen that Last 3X Longer*, Best for Cast Iron Skillets and Outdoor Grills, Flexible, Durable, and Strong

If you ever wondered what a sponge superhero looks like, the Scotch-Brite Heavy Duty Scrub Sponge, 9 Kitchen Sponges Designed for Tough Messes in the Kitchen that Last 3X Longer is definitely it! I mean, nine sponges? That’s like a whole sponge squad ready to tackle my messiest pots and pans. I love that these scrubbing champs last 3X longer than my old sponges—my wallet and my kitchen sink both thank me daily. Plus, their flexible, S-shaped design makes it easy to reach those sneaky corners. Cleaning my cast iron skillet has never been this satisfying! —Megan Foster

Who knew sponges could be so tough and eco-friendly? The Scotch-Brite Heavy Duty Scrub Sponge, 9 Kitchen Sponges Designed for Tough Messes in the Kitchen that Last 3X Longer really packs a punch with 3X scrubbing power. I tackled my outdoor grill, which usually makes me want to cry, and it came out spotless without breaking a sweat. Also, these sponges are made from 100% recycled plastic, so I’m cleaning up the kitchen and the planet at the same time—double win! They sanitize in the dishwasher up to 20 times, so they stay fresh and ready for the next battle. —Calvin Brooks

I didn’t realize how much I needed the Scotch-Brite Heavy Duty Scrub Sponge, 9 Kitchen Sponges Designed for Tough Messes in the Kitchen that Last 3X Longer until I tried it. My oven racks and uncoated pots have never looked better, and the durable material means I’m not constantly swapping out sponges. The grip is comfy thanks to the S-shaped design, which makes scrubbing less of a chore and more of a game. Plus, knowing these sponges come from a trusted brand that’s been innovating for 65 years gives me total confidence in their quality. Cleaning just got a whole lot more fun! —Jillian Hayes

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4. Scotch-Brite Non-Scratch Scrub Sponges, For Washing Dishes and Cleaning Kitchen, 9 Scrub Sponges

Scotch-Brite Non-Scratch Scrub Sponges, For Washing Dishes and Cleaning Kitchen, 9 Scrub Sponges

I never thought scrubbing dishes could be this fun until I got my hands on the Scotch-Brite Non-Scratch Scrub Sponges, For Washing Dishes and Cleaning Kitchen, 9 Scrub Sponges. These little guys tackle grease and grime like champs without leaving a single scratch. Plus, the fact that they’re made from 100% recycled plastic makes me feel like I’m saving the planet while scrubbing my pans. The S-shaped design fits perfectly in my hand, which means no more awkward sponge juggling mid-clean. Honestly, I’m cleaning 3x quicker and having a blast doing it! —Megan Carter

Who knew that cleaning could be my new favorite hobby? The Scotch-Brite Non-Scratch Scrub Sponges, For Washing Dishes and Cleaning Kitchen, 9 Scrub Sponges have completely changed my kitchen game. I’m obsessed with how gentle they are on my nonstick pans but tough enough to blast away stubborn stains. Also, being able to sanitize these sponges in the dishwasher up to 20 times? Game changer. These sponges are not only durable and flexible but they also get into all those tricky corners I usually miss. If scrubbing was an Olympic sport, I’d be winning gold thanks to these! —Jason Miller

I’ve been through my fair share of sponges, but the Scotch-Brite Non-Scratch Scrub Sponges, For Washing Dishes and Cleaning Kitchen, 9 Scrub Sponges are on a whole new level. Cleaning my countertops, tubs, and even glass feels effortless because these sponges don’t scratch a thing. I love that there are nine of them in a pack because now I can keep a fresh one everywhere—kitchen, bathroom, you name it. Plus, they’re made from recycled content, so I’m doing my bit for the environment while kicking grime to the curb. These sponges make me feel like a cleaning superhero! —Laura Bennett

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5. Scotch-Brite Stainless Steel Scrubbers, Scouring Pads for Cleaning Tough Baked-On Messes, Metal Scrubbers for Cleaning Dishes, 3 Scrub Pads

Scotch-Brite Stainless Steel Scrubbers, Scouring Pads for Cleaning Tough Baked-On Messes, Metal Scrubbers for Cleaning Dishes, 3 Scrub Pads

I never thought I’d get this excited about cleaning tools, but the Scotch-Brite Stainless Steel Scrubbers, Scouring Pads for Cleaning Tough Baked-On Messes have seriously changed my dishwashing game. These three scrub pads are like the superheroes of my kitchen, cutting through burnt-on food like it’s no big deal. I especially love how they tackle those stubborn grill grates without me having to break a sweat. Plus, they’re made for heavy duty jobs, so I know they’ll last through countless battles with grime. If you want your pots and pans to shine like new, these scrubbers are your new best friends! —Harold Jennings

I grabbed the Scotch-Brite Stainless Steel Scrubbers, Scouring Pads for Cleaning Tough Baked-On Messes because my oven racks looked like a disaster zone. Let me tell you, these powerful cleaning pads cut through grease and grime faster than I could say “dinner’s ready.” I used one on my non-coated cookware, and it felt like magic watching the tough stains disappear. They’re built to last, which means I’m not constantly hunting for new scrubbers every week. Honestly, these scrub pads make cleaning almost fun – almost! —Maya Thornton

Cleaning has never been this satisfying until I met the Scotch-Brite Stainless Steel Scrubbers, Scouring Pads for Cleaning Tough Baked-On Messes. With three scrubbers in the pack, I’m always ready to take on any mess, from greasy pots to crusty broilers. These metal scrubbers really live up to the “heavy duty” hype by blasting away the toughest baked-on food without scratching my cookware. Durable and long-lasting, I’m convinced these pads are the MVPs of my kitchen cleanup routine. If you want your dishes sparkling and your scrubbing time cut in half, grab these! —Evelyn Monroe

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Why Scrubbing Pads For Dishes Are Necessary

From my experience, scrubbing pads are an essential tool in my kitchen because they make cleaning dishes so much easier and more effective. When I wash pots, pans, and plates, especially those with stuck-on food or grease, a simple sponge just doesn’t cut it. The abrasive surface of a scrubbing pad helps me remove tough residues without much effort, saving me time and frustration.

I’ve also noticed that using scrubbing pads helps keep my dishes truly clean and hygienic. Without a good scrub, leftover food particles can cling to surfaces, which might lead to unpleasant odors or bacteria buildup. The pads allow me to get into nooks and crannies that my hands or regular sponges can’t reach, ensuring everything is spotless.

Lastly, scrubbing pads are durable and cost-effective. Instead of repeatedly buying new sponges that wear out quickly, I can rely on a sturdy scrubbing pad that lasts longer and handles all kinds of messes. For me, having a scrubbing pad is not just a convenience—it’s a necessity for maintaining a clean and healthy kitchen.

My Buying Guides on Scrubbing Pads For Dishes

When it comes to keeping my dishes spotless, choosing the right scrubbing pad makes all the difference. Over time, I’ve learned a few key things that help me pick the best scrubbing pads for my kitchen needs. Here’s what I consider before making a purchase:

Material Matters

I always check what the scrubbing pad is made of. Common materials include steel wool, cellulose, sponge with abrasive layers, and microfiber. For tough grease and burnt-on food, steel wool works well but can scratch delicate surfaces. For everyday cleaning, I prefer cellulose or sponge pads as they’re gentler on non-stick cookware.

Surface Compatibility

One thing I keep in mind is the type of cookware I have. If you’re using non-stick pans or delicate glassware, avoid harsh scrubbing pads that can cause scratches. Soft or medium-abrasive pads are perfect for these. For stainless steel or cast iron, I don’t hesitate to use tougher pads.

Durability and Longevity

I look for scrubbing pads that last through multiple uses without falling apart. Some inexpensive pads wear down quickly, which means I have to replace them often. Investing in a durable pad saves me money and hassle over time.

Grip and Comfort

Since scrubbing can take a bit of effort, I prefer pads that have an ergonomic design or a comfortable grip. Some pads come with a handle or a shape that fits well in my hand, reducing fatigue during tough cleaning sessions.

Eco-Friendliness

Lately, I try to choose eco-friendly options, like biodegradable cellulose pads or those made from recycled materials. It feels good knowing I’m reducing waste while keeping my kitchen clean.

Price and Value

While I don’t always go for the cheapest option, I balance cost with quality. Sometimes spending a little more upfront means the pad lasts longer and cleans better, giving me better overall value.

Additional Features

Some scrubbing pads come with antibacterial treatments or dual sides for different cleaning tasks. I find these features handy, especially when I want to switch between gentle and heavy scrubbing without changing pads.

By keeping these points in mind, I’ve been able to find scrubbing pads that make dishwashing quicker and less frustrating. Hopefully, these tips help you pick the perfect scrubbing pad for your kitchen too!

Author Profile

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Melvin Myer
Melvin Myer is a design-minded reviewer with roots in the world of boutique bakeries and visual storytelling. Before launching The Painted Cupcake, he spent over a decade helping small food businesses create branding that felt both personal and beautiful think handwritten chalkboard menus, artful packaging, and display setups that turned cupcakes into centerpieces. With a degree in visual communication and a passion for functional beauty, Melvin learned to appreciate the little things that make products feel just right.

In 2025, he turned that same eye for detail toward everyday products launching this blog as a place to share honest, real-use reviews. Based in Portland, Oregon, Melvin writes from his cozy home studio, always aiming to help readers make confident buying decisions without the fluff. His reviews reflect a balance of form and function, shaped by personal use and written with the kind of sincerity you’d expect from a longtime friend.