Chances are some of your earliest memories of bath time [1] involved a loved one scrubbing you down with a colorful loofah. However, have you ever wondered if you should use a loofah? Although the exfoliation [2], scratchy feeling, and suds it produces may make you feel super clean when you get out of the shower, the product sits in a wet environment long after you've dried off, which means it can carry some pretty gross bacteria.
We consulted three dermatologists — Debra Jaliman [3], Marnie Nussbaum [4], and Dhaval Bhanusali [5], MD — to find out how they feel about using loofahs. Check out their expert advice, ahead.
How to Clean a Loofah
If you must use a loofah, Dr. Jaliman suggests you clean them frequently. "If you want to use them, then place them in diluted bleach once a week [to kill the bacteria]," she said.
Dr. Nussbaum advises that you rinse your loofah well and make sure it dries completely between uses. She also recommends that you replace them frequently. "I recommend getting a new one every three weeks or so." she said. "Also — and this is important — never share them."
If you want to continue to use your current loofah, Dr. Nussbaum has a few tips to kill the bacteria harboring in it. "Wash the loofah in very hot water at least once a week," she said. "I recommend running it through the dishwasher, dropping it in boiling water for five to seven minutes, or microwaving it for around 30 seconds weekly."