The Best Shower Loofahs

Classically known as a loofah, this special sponge is used in the shower or bath to clean and exfoliate your body at the same time. There are two different kinds of loofahs: puffy bundles of mesh fabric and natural ones from the luffa plant.

Buying Guide for Shower Loofahs

Why buy a shower loofah?

Shower loofahs make for great scrubbers when cleaning yourself in the shower. They add soap or body wash to your face and body in a more effective manner than simply using your hands. Since loofahs create a big, frothy lather with minimal soap or body wash added, you get the same level of cleanliness with less soap. You may even end up saving money on body wash or soap as a result.

They also double as exfoliants, meaning they scrub off dead skin cells. This, in turn, reduces your risk of dry, patchy skin and clogged pores and leaves your skin looking brighter and fresher.

Great as they are, keep in mind that a shower loofah may not be the best choice if you have very sensitive skin, as they may cause redness or irritation due to the coarseness of the material. And regardless of skin type, a loofah should be adequately cleaned or replaced regularly to prevent bacteria from growing on it.

What should you look for in a shower loofah?

• Material: Loofahs are often made from mesh or plastic, but you can also find natural ones made from the luffa plant if you prefer natural products. If you opt for a fabric one, look for material that is soft but textured, as it’ll be more gentle on your skin while still serving its exfoliating function. Keep in mind that sea sponges and dried coral exfoliation implements aren’t actually shower loofahs, though they may serve a similar purpose.
• Additions: Though they’re pretty simple, straightforward products, there are a few bonus add-ons you can look for in a loofah that makes them even more effective scrubbers. Some loofahs have long wooden handles, which are great for hard-to-reach places. These models may even be double-sided, essentially giving you a bonus shower accessory for the price of one. You can also look for loofahs with extra cleaning properties, like charcoal, for a more cleansing scrub.
• Storage and Cleaning: Properly storing and caring for your loofah will ensure that it has a longer service life and make it safer for you. Look for loofahs with a ribbon or loop for it to hang from when not in use. This will help it dry out faster and prevent mold and bacteria growth. Also look for loofahs that are dishwasher or washing machine friendly, so you can keep them clean with minimal effort.

What’s the difference between natural and synthetic shower loofahs?

Natural loofahs are made from a gourd-like plant, while synthetic loofahs are made of mesh, plastic, and other similar fabrics and materials. Natural loofahs are more brittle and tend to have a rougher texture, so they’re considered more effective for exfoliating purposes. Since they’re made out of natural materials, they’re also more eco-friendly due to being biodegradable and compostable. It’s recommended that natural loofahs be replaced every three to four weeks, while synthetic ones can last two months or more at a time. Thus, a natural loofah will be most costly in the long run.

On the other hand, synthetic shower loofahs are hardier than natural ones and won’t wear down as quickly, so they’re more cost-effective. However, synthetic loofahs won’t be biodegradable or recyclable unless otherwise stated in the product listing. Synthetic loofahs also tend to be brighter and more colorful; natural models are almost never dyed or otherwise colored.

Our Picks for the Best Shower Loofahs

Pros: This pack of quintessential shower loofahs will satisfy all your shower scrubbing needs and then some. They’re made of high-quality, ultra-fine mesh that is much softer and silkier to the touch than many other models. You get three loofahs with your purchase for an even better value. Each loofah comes with a hanging ribbon attached for easy, convenient storage. They’re also machine washable (gentle cycle in a delicates bag recommended) for additional convenience.

Cons: Though they’ll still do their job and can make a nice lather with very little soap or body wash, it’s worth noting that these loofahs are definitely on the small side compared to similar models. And they may start to unravel a bit over time.

Bottom Line: This classic loofah gently exfoliates dull skin to revive your skin’s radiance. The fine mesh only needs a small amount of body wash to form a rich lather, and since you get three loofahs with your purchase, you shouldn’t have to buy replacements for several months.

 

Pros: This set of four loofahs is infused with bamboo charcoal to provide a deeper, more thorough clean without irritating or abrading your skin. Charcoal helps remove oil, dead skin cells, and other debris off your skin and temporarily makes your pores look smaller, providing greater exfoliating properties. Bamboo charcoal is particularly great for absorbing toxins and free radicals, leaving healthier-looking skin behind. These loofahs are available in 12 color options. They also come with a small complimentary plastic comb and a handy waterproof traveling bag for greater portability.

Cons: While these loofahs are great in many ways, they aren’t the most durable option on the market. It’s just as well they come in a pack of four, as you may notice they unravel quicker than many similar models, especially if you scrub hard.

Bottom Line: This natural bamboo charcoal-infused loofah exfoliates and cleans even the most sensitive skin and foams up especially easily when used with body wash. Made with high-quality products, this loofah is easy to hold and can be hung when not in use.

 

Pros: This isn’t just a loofah; it’s a loofah, shower brush, back scratcher, scrubber, and even a manual massager all in one, thanks to the long handle and double-sided head. Measuring 14 inches from end to end, the long handle of this loofah allows you to wash your back and other hard-to-reach places that you might not be able to reach with regular handheld loofahs. The nonslip handle helps ensure you won’t drop it in the shower, while the hole in the handle and attached rope on the head give you two possible hanging options when not in use. As a bonus, this item works outside of the shower, even if you’re dry.

Cons: While the longer handle undeniably lets you reach some parts of your body that you can’t quite manage with a handheld loofah, some users noted that there were still some spots on their back that the handle wasn’t quite long enough to reach.

Bottom Line: With this two-in-one loofah, you can cleanse and exfoliate your skin or give yourself a back scratch in or out of the shower. The longer handle helps to reach your back and shoulders with greater ease than you can achieve without it.

 

Pros: If you prefer an all-natural, plant-based loofah instead of a synthetic one, you can’t go wrong with this trio. Since they’re made from the luffa plant rather than plastic or mesh, they’re biodegradable, and the texture provides extra exfoliation for healthier-looking skin. They’re nice and large and become flexible but not soggy when wet. They have a built-in hanging rope of Egyptian cotton and a hypoallergenic and dye-free to boot. And since you get three loofahs with your purchase, you won’t have to buy new ones for several months. A love little gift/carrying bag comes included as well.

Cons: The superior exfoliation offered by these all-natural loofahs does mean that they’re a bit more abrasive than many synthetic ones, so they probably aren’t the best choice for people with sensitive skin.

Bottom Line: These shower loofahs come from Egypt and are all-natural, eco-friendly, and effective for buffing off dead skin. Their spa quality will help you rejuvenate your skin, cleanse pores, and boost circulation for a healthier glow.

Final Thoughts

Shower loofahs are handy tools that are incredibly effective for washing, scrubbing, and exfoliating your body, all at the same time. Check out these quality loofahs to add to your shower routine.