Eating a sponge, I must say that's a new one on me. I've heard of large constrictors eating "heating pads" and other objects. Mainly because they smell like a "prey item", rat, rabbit and so on.

You are correct, the bacteria from the sponge may cause slimy loose bowels that stink to beat the band. But remember, these guys drink out of mud puddles in the "wild".
Passing the sponge might also be a "trick" since it's hard to tell how much will be digested by the acidic environment of the gut. However, with that being said, remember these "juices" can dissolve bone. So, if the sponge is organic, it just might fully dissolve the sponge and pass the problem without a hitch.
Or the GTP might regurgitate it.

Keeping that in mind, you can always take your GTP to a knowledgeable herp vet in your area, if you can find one. Most of the time this is easier said than done.

As for me, I never use things like sponges to maintain higher humidity levels. A large water bowl will suffix. Also GTP's will soak on occasions. I use PURE cypress mulch as a substrate. This allows me to monitor the environment simply by looking at the color change of the cypress as it begins to dry out. I spray (mist) my GTP and Blood enclosures everyday first thing in the morning. Thus allowing humidity changes as the day progresses toward evening and dark.

I wish you luck with your GTP. Hope all works out.

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