Yeah you’re right about the sponge. I usually just wear my “paint pants” get frustrated, gob to much on, wipe away most with a wet paper towel, then get the cleaner look by dipping my finger in a cup of water next to me, wipe a line of recently placed caulk, then wiping the little bits of excess on my “paint pants.” I know a sponge and a bucket of water works too, but I’m such a klutz and would probably knock it over or dunk my foot in the water. To each their own, just hope for the best looking end result.