That method is struggling to avoid the blades slicing off your fingers and sponge is an old housewife's method.

Here is how to clean your bender thoroughly in a few minutes:

1. Pour water into your blender till it's half full (preferably warm water).

2. Add detergent or dish washing liquid to the water and put the lid on.

3. Turn on the blender and let it run for about a minute.

4. Your blender should be sparkling clean by now. If there are any stubborn stains in the blender, scrub with a lemon or add vinegar to the cleaning water.