I use S.O.S. scouring pads for scouring pots and pans. When I'm done, I put the pad in a little plastic baggie and pop it in the freezer until the next time I do pots and pans. This way it doesn't get rusty and fall apart. I've been doing this for many, many years. I'm sure one can do this to a Brillo pad too.
Source: I got this idea so long ago, I actually think it was from Heloese.
By joy nagle from Greenwood, DE
Keeping Steel Wool Pads from Rusting Tip. Don't throw away that half-used steel wool pad. You can save it from rusting by putting it in a solution of baking soda and water. Change the soda-water solution every once in awhile to keep it fresh. . .
The best way I have found to keep my steel wool pad rust free is to put it in a sandwich bag. It lasts a lot longer and keeps my counter clean.
After using a SOS (soapy steel wool) pad, lay it on a piece of tin foil. It will not rust and can be used again.
I keep my used pad in a small jar with a lid. I had accidentally pushed a pad in a jar to the back of my cabinet and a few months later when I discovered it, it was still unrusted and usable.
Keep your SOS pads in the freezer It stops them from rusting
How to get the most out of your S.O.S. pads. By putting a layer of baking soda wherever you store your used sos pads will prevent rusting.
To prevent a Brillo pad from getting rusty, rinse after use then shake out all of the excess water. Make sure no more water comes out when you shake it.