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How to Prevent Mold on a Loofah Sponge

Daisy Cuinn

The loofah, a natural sponge that comes from the pod of a sub-tropical plant that's related to the pumpkin, is one of the most popular items for the shower. It cleans and exfoliates more deeply than a washcloth and can be left in its long natural shape or cut and attached to a wood handle to clean hard-to-reach areas.

Take care of your loofah to prevent mold.

However, loofahs can become a haven for mold if not properly maintained. By taking preventative measures, a loofah can last for hundreds of showers or baths.

  1. Shake the loofah out vigorously after use, removing as much of the water from the fibers as possible.

  2. Lay the loofah on a soap dish with ventilation, such as a dish made of wire or one with holes on the surface. Place the dish outside of the shower or even in a dry room like the bedroom. Alternatively, if the loofah has a hanger, hang it on a hook outside of the shower to allow it to dry completely.

  3. Soak the loofah periodically to keep it clean and free of mold. Mix 1 tbsp. baking soda and 1 tbsp. white vinegar per cup of water and add to a bowl with the loofah. After an hour, rinse the loofah thoroughly and dry as usual.

  4. Tip

    Discard and replace the loofah is black mold is visible or if it has a strong moldy odor.

The Drip Cap

  • The loofah, a natural sponge that comes from the pod of a sub-tropical plant that's related to the pumpkin, is one of the most popular items for the shower.
  • Shake the loofah out vigorously after use, removing as much of the water from the fibers as possible.
  • Alternatively, if the loofah has a hanger, hang it on a hook outside of the shower to allow it to dry completely.