This little kitchen sponge holder is one of those quick fixes that makes the sink area feel so much tidier. By attaching a large binder clip to the inside of a small ceramic planter, you get a simple holder that keeps a sponge upright so it can drain better instead of sitting in a puddle. I love projects like this because they use easy-to-find supplies and solve an everyday annoyance in under an hour.

If you want a handy sink-side organizer without buying one more plastic gadget, this is a great beginner project. I’d especially recommend it for busy family kitchens, apartment kitchens, or anyone who likes practical DIYs that actually earn their keep.

Materials for making a kitchen sponge holder from a planter and binder clip
Materials for making a kitchen sponge holder from a planter and binder clip

Materials

1 small terracotta planter, 4 to 5 inches wide at the top and about 4 inches tall

1 large black metal binder clip, 2 inches wide
1 standard rectangular kitchen sponge, about 4 1/4 x 2 3/4 inches, for sizing
2 tablespoons waterproof two-part epoxy suitable for ceramic and metal
1 sheet medium-grit sandpaper, 120 to 150 grit
2 tablespoons rubbing alcohol
3 cotton pads or paper towels
1 strip painter’s tape, about 6 inches long
1 small disposable mixing stick or craft stick
1 scrap paper plate or cardboard square for mixing epoxy

Instructions

1. Wash and dry the planter well, then wipe the inside wall where the clip will attach with rubbing alcohol to remove dust and oils.

2. Lightly sand a 2-inch area on the inside of the planter and the flat back side of the binder clip to help the adhesive grip, then wipe both surfaces clean again.

3. Test-fit the sponge by clipping it in the binder clip and holding the clip inside the planter near the rim; position it so the sponge hangs partly inside the planter and can drip down into it.

4. Remove the sponge, mix the epoxy according to the package directions, and spread a generous layer on the flat back of the binder clip.

5. Press the binder clip firmly onto the inside wall of the planter about 1 inch below the rim, keeping the clip opening facing upward so it can hold the sponge securely.

6. Use painter’s tape across the clip handles or brace the planter so the clip stays in place while the epoxy sets, then let it cure fully for the time recommended by the adhesive.

7. Once cured, remove the tape and check that the clip feels solid; if needed, add a small extra bead of epoxy around the contact area and let it cure again.

8. Clip the sponge into place and set the planter beside the sink so drips collect inside the pot instead of on the counter.

Finished terracotta planter sponge holder beside a kitchen sink
Finished terracotta planter sponge holder beside a kitchen sink

Variations & Tips

For extra drainage: Drop a few small pebbles or a folded paper towel into the bottom of the planter to catch moisture and keep the inside cleaner between rinses.

For a polished look: If you want the holder to match your kitchen, paint the outside of the planter with 2 coats of multi-surface craft paint and finish with a clear waterproof topcoat, keeping the inside attachment area bare for the best bond.

For picky sponge users: At my house, everyone seems to have an opinion about scrubbers, so you can size this the same way for a thinner cellulose sponge, a non-scratch scrub pad, or even a small dish brush with the handle resting out of the pot.

To protect the counter: Add 3 or 4 small adhesive rubber dots to the bottom of the planter so it doesn’t scratch delicate countertops and won’t slide around near the sink.

Cleaning tip: Empty any collected water every day or two and rinse the planter with warm soapy water so the holder stays fresh and doesn’t develop sink grime.

Best planter shape: A slightly tapered planter works especially well because it leaves enough room for the sponge to hang comfortably while still looking neat and compact on the counter.