If you are one of those people who put almost everything in the dishwasher, you probably have the following item in the kitchen. When it comes to cleaning the bathroom, you will at least need a sponge or rag.

Foam sponges provide the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and bad odors. Another reason is that they aren’t very environmentally friendly when they’re thrown away at the end of their short life. There are several tips and tricks for cleaning, such as sterilizing in the microwave. But usually food residues will collect in the pores of the sponge. Bacteria grow in sponges when there is still moisture in them. This smells bad.

Our sponge alternatives:

Luffa sponge is great for skin and household chores 

An alternative solution is offered by loofah sponges made from pumpkin. These are natural and can be used in the home for skin care. A loofah sponge is best at getting even tough dirt off with just water or some neutral soap. This is because of its fibrous structure. It is important to wash it every now and then, and to wash it at 60 degrees in the washing machine after cleaning the house. In the bathroom, it serves as an exfoliator (no more than once a week), a shower sponge, and even as a soap base for solid soaps, so that they do not swell. After using it on your skin, you should wash it thoroughly with water or heat it in the microwave for about 3 minutes. If the loofah sponge needs to be disposed of, it can be done through the compost.

Upcycling idea

Another alternative to plastic sponges and rags is the following upcycling variation: from disused terry towels or tea towels ,you can cut the size that suits you. Double-stitch the edges to avoid fringes. This way you get eco-friendly, almost infinitely reusable rags that go into the laundry basket after a day or two. Washed at 60 degrees, they’re ready for the next use.

This way, you’ve not only produced less waste, but also guaranteed more cleanliness in the home and bathroom.

Feel free to read more about why we should avoid plastic in the bathroom and kitchen here.