How to Prevent Mold on a Loofah Sponge

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.

Things You Will Need

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• Soap dish
• Bowl
• Baking powder
• White vinegar
• Water

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.

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.