Abstract: The invention provides for an apparatus for separating particulate dispersed in a liquid phase from the major volume of the liquid. The separator comprises a substantially cylindrical member formed of a flexible material and adaptable to nest or be seated in a receptacle, such as a pail of sufficient size to hold enough liquid or cleaning solution and to accommodate the washing accessory such as a sponge. The separator has an annulus or rim which has at least one opening so that when the separator is inserted into a pail of water or other liquid, air will not be trapped beneath the separator and force it from its seat or to the surface of the liquid. The cylindrical member has an integrally formed concave surface disposed substantially horizontally when the separator is in use, in that this surface is configured as an inverted cone. The concave surface is provided with a centrally disposed opening to allow for the passage of particulate therethrough.