We use a new sponge about 1 per month. Usually, the need for replacement is due to the mold that eventually grows in the sponge. They smell bad, look dirty, and all in all are just yucky once the mold grows. As I was searching for new sponges, this one popped up as a recommendation. It wasn't too expensive and appeared to be high quality, so I figured for 3 bucks you can't go wrong. If it's no good, you can just use it and replace it once per month as I normally do. Boy, was I wrong. This is a VERY high quality sponge. It appears to be open cell foam (not a true sponge) and it also has a soft but sturdy scrubbing side as well. The packaging was very nice as well, being thick and professional looking. The packaging also allows easy access to the sponges, so no more having to rip a plastic cover off, or worse, having to use scissors to open it. Upon first use, you can immediately tell how much better these are then regular sponges. First, it's man made, so NO MORE killing sponges. I hope it's recyclable as well. If so, this could be the start of a widely successful recycling program, which I completely support. The 'sponge' feels the same as a real sponge and holds a lot of water and soap. In fact, it holds soap way better than it does water OR a regular sponge holds; thus, allowing you to use concentrated soap to wash with. We only use ours for dishes and wiping up water on the counter, and this works exceptionally well for those tasks. The sponge is also easy to clean. I don't have to stick it in the microwave to disinfect it. YEAH! And, they are of high quality as you expect from a Scotch. Will I purchase again? MOST DEFINITELY Do I recommend this? Absolutely. If you need a good sponge, buy these. You won't regret it. Update: Almost 3 months later, the sponge is still working and appears almost like it was brand new. Sure, it's got a little discoloration but otherwise, it's still new. The scrubber hasn't separated from the sponge. The sponge hasn't gotten moldy or smell bad at all. I MOST Definitely recommend this sponge. It's just awesome! Update: 5 months from purchase! I've still only used 1 (one) sponge. It's lasted twice as long as a regular sponge. However, the sponge is starting to show some (and I stress SOME) wear but it's like 75% still good. It STILL absorbs an incredible amount of water and holds soap like no bodies business! The only thing I've really noticed is the sponge isn't as elastic as it was new, but it still works just fine. The scrub part hasn't even separated at all. It also doesn't smell like mold/mildew. Basically, this sponge is awesome! I highly recommend purchasing this sponge and you won't regret it. As usual, I don't give 5 star ratings as I believe a product can always be improved. Having said that, this one would qualify as a 5 star rating if I gave those. AND, the company did NOT ask for a review, so this is my honest review.