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10+ Natural and Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Loofahs
Updated: Dec 1, 2023
We all probably have owned a loofah sponge before. Whether purchased by ourselves or receive from friends or loved ones. But did you know these sponges are actually made of plastic? So basically when you are using one of these, you are cleaning yourself with a piece of plastic cloth… Not only that, plastic is known to release microplastics into our bathroom wastewaters which might end up polluting oceans. They look cute but in reality, they are not very eco-friendly. So, when you have used up your current loofah sponge, it is time to take a look at a more eco-friendly alternative for a sponge in your bathroom.
Loofah Plant Sponge
A loofah in its most original form is not actually a piece of plastic but an actual plant. Loofah plants look a bit like cucumbers or zucchinis when they are still on the plant (they are relatives btw). However, the inside of a loofah gourd looks much different. Where a cucumber and zucchini are rather watery and solid on the inside, a loofah gourd is very airy. This makes for a great sponge. After harvest, these fruits are dried and after a couple of days of drying they are peeled and your loofah sponge appears. These sponges are surprisingly sturdy making them great to not only scrub your legs in the shower prior to shaving, but they are also great to clean your pots and pans after a delicious meal.
Fabric loofah
If you prefer a sponge that still looks like the colorful loofah you know and love maybe a burlap loofah is for you. This one is made with 100% natural material so there is no risk of flushing microplastics down the drain. Burlap is a rather rough material which makes this loofah a great alternative to scrub your body with. We also sell cotton, bamboo, or hemp ones for the ones among us who prefer a softer type so scrub in the shower. Let these natural loofahs completely dry between uses so you can enjoy them the longest.
Sea Sponge
Did you know that a (sea) sponge is actually an animal? They are usually just a few cells big and live on a rock in the ocean. These Captain Blankenship Sea Sponges are sustainably harvested from self-regenerating sponges in the Atlantic Ocean. Only the outermost portion of the sponge is harvested to ensure the healthy and sustainable growth of the sponge. As a sponge is an animal, you might think that the harvesting of a sponge is hurting it. This is not the case, as they have no nerve cells meaning it is similar to them as what a haircut would be for us. These sponges are non-toxic, hypoallergenic, compostable, and contain natural enzymes that slow the growth of mold, bacteria, and mildew. Making them great to be used in the bathtub or shower.
Walnut sponge
Another material that also can be used to make sponges is walnuts! This unique yet powerful sponge is great to keep your house clean. This sponge is double-sided with one side being super absorbent while the other is rough for those dirty dishes or other heavy-duty cleaning situations.
Recycled sponge
Another double-sided sponge. In this case, one side is made from recycled plastic bottles. This is the abrasive side of the sponge and can handle some serious heavy cleaning duties. This other side is much softer and is made from cellulose (a plant material). This absorbent side is for more gentle cleaning after the abrasive side has done its job.
Jute dish brush
Do you want something unique and powerful to help you around your kitchen? This Coconut and Jute Dish Brush from Full Circle Home is just for you. This plastic-free and plant-based cleaning brush is made from sturdy coconut husks and jute fiber. These bristles work hard to lift and remove food and grease from pans, pots, and dishes. The best part? When its lifecycle is over you can simply compost it.
Natural latex pad
Another material we don’t often see in for cleaning is latex but latex has some awesome uses. Like this cleaning pad. This Natural Latex Scour Pad is made from a blend of coconut fiber and natural latex. It works wonders on your dishes and for reaching hard-to-clean nooks and crannies in and around your home. At the end of its life, simply toss it in your compost bin as this sponge is made with 100% natural materials.
Biodegradable Sponge
These sponges are made of 100% wood pulp. These zero waste kitchen sponges absorb up to 10 times their weight in liquid making them a great alternative for both your kitchen and bathroom. Whether you need to do the dishes, clean countertops, or bathe the kids, these eco-friendly, reusable sponges are there to help you along the way.
Hemp Sponge
This organic, biodegradable sponge is great for daily dishes. They are handknitted and compostable as they are made from 100% natural materials. These are a great alternative to those plastic or metal sponges that continue to pollute our planet. They are strong enough to clean your dishes but gently enough to not scratch your expensive pans. Hemp is awesome as it doesn’t absorb smell but if you ever feel like your hemp sponge needs a wash, just pop them into your washing machine.
