Minecraft keeps growing with amazing new content! From exciting stories and stunning biomes to explore, to all sorts of new blocks to build your dream world with, there's always something fresh to discover. But some things in Minecraft remain the same, like the classic sponges. A sponge might be an oldie, but it's still a goodie, especially for your builds underwater. In this guide, we'll dive into everything you should know about sponges in Minecraft, let’s get started!

What is a Sponge in Minecraft?

A sponge in Minecraft is a block that absorbs water around it when placed. This changes it into a wet sponge, which can be dried by smelting or placing it in the Nether for reuse. 

Sponges Minecraft
A sponge in Minecraft

How to get sponges in Minecraft

If you're wondering how to make a sponge in Minecraft, the answer is you can't. In the sandbox game, a wet sponge cannot be crafted by a crafting table or furnace. Instead, you must find and collect this item in the game. So, how to get sponges in Minecraft?

Here's where to look:

  • Ocean Monuments: These grand underwater structures are your target.
  • Beware the Guardians: These powerful enemies guard the monuments, so be prepared for a fight!
How To Get Sponges In Minecraft
Head to Ocean Monuments to get sponges In Minecraft.

There are two ways to get sponges in Minecraft:

  • Elder Guardian Drops: Defeating an Elder Guardian will get you one wet sponge.
  • Sponge Rooms: Look for special rooms inside Ocean Monuments that contain a good amount of sponges ready for the taking. This is the better way to go!
Elder Guardian Minecraft
Watch our for the Elder Guardians.

How to use sponges in Minecraft

Soaking up water

Sponges are a lifesaver for any Minecraft player who wants to build underwater! These blocky buddies soak up water like nobody's business. Just place a sponge in a watery area, and it'll go to work, sucking up nearby water blocks - up to 7 blocks in all directions! A single sponge can handle a whopping 135 water blocks before it gets full. You'll know it's full when it starts dripping water.

Reusable

Sponges are the perfect tool for building underwater because they clear out large areas of water. This lets you create air pockets for your awesome underwater base or secret lair. And the best part? Sponges can be reused! Once a sponge is full of water (you'll see it dripping), just pop it in a furnace to dry it out. Then it's ready to soak up another 135 water blocks!

How to get dry sponge in Minecraft

There are two ways to dry out a sponge full of water:

  • Nether Blast: For the quickest method, toss your wet sponge into the fiery Nether dimension! It'll puff out a cloud of steam and be instantly dry.
  • Air Dry: If you're not in a hurry and can reach a dry biome, such as a desert, just place the wet sponge on the ground and it will naturally dry out after some time.

Alternatives to Sponges in Minecraft

Are sponges a must-have? It depends! If you're looking to maximize efficiency and conquer underwater builds, then yes, sponges are a game-changer. But for casual players, they might not be a top priority.

Sponges are the champions of water removal, but there's another way (although slower!). Here's how:

  1. Dive Down and Block: Head underwater and build a block enclosure around the area you want to clear.
  2. Sand the Floor: Fill the enclosed area with sand blocks from the bottom up.
  3. Remove the Sand, Not the Water! Once the area is filled, break the sand blocks. Poof! The water should be gone.

Important Note: If you're trying this in an ocean or near a flowing water source, you'll need to completely seal the area you're working on. Otherwise, water will just rush back in!

Conclusion

We've covered everything you should know about sponges in Minecraft in this article. Whether you're using them for building or other purposes, sponges are unique materials that have been a part of the game for a long time. We hope this blog has helped you gain a better understanding of sponges in Minecraft. Have a great time gaming!

>> Also check out: