Sponges Put in Garbage Cart/Bin Do Not Recycle Generic sponges are made of plastic and are not recyclable. Ways to Reduce Use Natural Cloth Sponges Instead Use reusable sponges made of natural fibers — such as cotton, linen, burlap and jute — that can be tossed in the wash with your laundry. Avoid sponges made from “plant fibers,” as this often means bioplastic.