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How to Make Your Own Loofah SpongeBy C Ferguson

Loofah, a seed pod originating in southern Asia, has many kitchen usages, but most often loofah is used in the bath and shower as a cosmetic or beauty aid. It's good for skin care and is a natural beauty aid. Here's how you can make your own simple loofah sponge.

Things You'll Need Loofah seeds Sharp knife for cutting

4 spools of thread

Cheesecloth

Mild soap

Water

Screening

Elbow grease 1Step One

Obtain loofah seeds for planting. Of course, you may bypass this step if you're lucky enough to already have a vine of the seed pods growing on your property.

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Seeds grow well in warm climates, but can also be grown in colder climates with a little extra care. The plants must be supported by a trellis, fence or bamboo stakes.

*Purchase seeds online or at specialty nurseries.

Step TwoPlants are ready to harvest just before the vine dies. Pick pods from the vines

and clean them lightly with warm water. 3Step Three

Using a sharp knife, peel the green outer skin of the pod. 4Step Four

Milk the pod by cutting one end of the plant with a sharp knife. With the cut end facing downward squeeze the vegetable from the middle releasing the interior "milk substance" and seeds.

You can run high pressure water through the pod to get the same effect. 5Step Five

Soak the now empty loofah in warm water to which 2-3 capfuls of bleach have been added. This helps in removing the natural browning of the plant after peeling.

Allow the naked plant to soak for 10-15 minutes, until the desired lightening has been achieved.

*Note you are not required to lighten the loofah; it's a matter of choice. 6Step Six

Wash the loofah with mild soap and water until bleach residue is completely

removed. 7Step Seven

To dry naturally, lay the loofah onto a clean screen which has been elevated by four spools of thread. Cover the screen with cheese cloth.

Rotate the loofah periodically.

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This allows extra moisture to easily seep from the loofah through the screen,

cheese cloth and prevent molding. 8Step Eight

Once the loofah is dry, cut the loofah into desired shapes and sizes using a sharp knife.

Tips & Warnings You may keep, dry and store the seeds for future use. Dry seeds in a cool

place. Store in a small brown paper bag. To avoid weakening fibers, don't use too much bleach when lightening.

You may substitute bleach for hydrogen peroxide.

If you're not able to obtain loofah seeds, you may purchase loofah plants online or at specialty nurseries and some grocers.

@2009 Calandra Ferguson. All Rights Reserved Visit Sew Craftful.com