A device for holding and manipulating compressible cleaning implements. The device comprises a handle and a blade attached to the handle. The blade is provided with an opening and a channel communicating with the opening and with the outer edge of the blade. The inner end of the channel is narrower than the diameter of the opening so that compressible cleaning implements inserted into the opening through the channel cannot migrate out of the opening during use. The channel is positioned in the portion of the blade that is proximal to the handle.