At The Den, we love natural sea sponges and their long list of benefits for both your skin and the environment! These marine treasures continue to make waves in our sustainable and skincare communities because of their hypoallergenic, antibacterial, and natural properties. Join us as we explore the incredible world of sea sponges!

What are Sea Sponges?

Did you know that sea sponges are not just bath sponges, but also superheroes of the underwater world? While structurally simple, they play a crucial role in marine ecosystems as they filter water, collect bacteria, and maintain the balance of essential nutrients (carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus) across a reef. Diverse sponge populations are truly the unsung hero of our oceans!

The Benefits of Natural Sponges

1. Hypoallergenic Haven:

Natural sea sponges are a dream for all skin types (including sensitive ones)! Unlike synthetic sponges loaded with plastics and chemicals, these won’t cause irritation, leaving your skin soft and happy.

Fun fact! The natural fibre of sea sponges is similar to our body’s cells and therefore, is not harmful to the skin! 

2. Natural Exfoliator:

Say goodbye to dull skin with the exfoliating power of sea sponges! After being thoroughly dried and processed, sea sponges are naturally effective at removing dead skin cells and boosting circulation, leaving your skin smooth and rejuvenated. 

3. Mineral Boost:

Lucky for us, sea sponges retain many of the beneficial minerals from the ocean water. Packed with essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, sea sponges are thoroughly nourishing for your skin. 

4. Durability & Sustainability:

When cared for properly, a natural sea sponge can last for years, making them a sustainable choice compared to synthetic alternatives. Plus, they’re eco-friendly, free from plastics and toxins. Way to reduce your waste!

5. Versatile Cleaner:

While we don’t recommend you use the same sponge to wash your home, car, and body, sea sponges are very versatile. Using one to wash and buff your car and bathroom will help make them the brightest ever! While they work well to exfoliate your body, they are non-abrasive tools that won’t scratch surfaces, making them perfect for various cleaning tasks.

6. Self-Cleaning Wonder: 

Thanks to their natural antibacterial properties, sea sponges stay clean and prevent bacterial growth, ensuring a hygienic skincare routine.

Ethical Harvesting & Sustainability

Ever wonder how sea sponges are harvested? It’s a delicate dance between tradition and modern techniques. Specially trained divers (who regularly rotate fishing grounds) carefully hand cut sponges above their root, allowing them to regrow. The sponges are then rinsed clean and hung to dry before being processed and sent to us! This sustainable practice ensures that large sea sponges can regrow (often healthier than before) and small sponges are left on the seabed to continue to grow. 

This ethical practice not only supports coastal communities but also preserves the Ancient Greek tradition of harvesting sea sponges! We proudly purchase sponges from Aegean Sponge Company, a family owned and run company, established in the 1940s.

Where to Find Sea Sponges

Looking to incorporate these marine wonders into your skincare and cleaning routines? You can find high-quality natural sea sponges at The Den, your one-stop destination for sustainable and eco-friendly products. Come see us in Tofino, Ucluelet, or online!

Our sea sponges hand-harvested in the Bahamas by the Aegean Sponge Company are available here.

How to Clean your Sponge

Keeping your sea sponge in condition is easy! Thankfully, they are self-cleaning and antibacterial, so as long as you follow this simple cleaning method, your sponge will do the rest of the work for you. 

Note! You only have to thoroughly wash your sponge every few months!

1. Soak it in a solution of water, baking soda, and peroxide to kill bacteria;

2. Remove your sponge from the peroxide solution and gently squeeze any excess water;

3. Allow it to air dry;

4. And finally, trim any loose edges of the sponge so it’s ready to use!

Join us in embracing the beauty and benefits of natural sea sponges. Your skin—and the planet—will thank you for it! 🌊✨