What are Sea Sponges Used For?
Natural sponges have been used for thousands of years due to its unique qualities.
- very absorbent in water, it creates a thick leather while its variety touch softly cleanses the skin.
- It is hypo allergic and helps in the best cleansing of the skin without irritating and is suitable for children's sensitive skin.
- As a living organism, the sponge deters the accumulation of bacteria thus protecting body hygiene.
- It is especially long wearing, it does not unravel like industrial sponge nor does it strain or hold odors.
- Due to its variety surface, it is ideal for massage giving the body a unique relaxation experience.
How are Sponges Harvested?
The sea sponge is a wonderfully renewable natural resource. Natural sponges are caught using the traditional diving method. Experienced divers dive to depths of 25-60 meters. From the seabed, our Kalymnian sponge collectors select with ecological sensitivity, not only the best sponges but also the fully developed ones, leaving the smaller ones to grow for the following year's harvest. In this way, they protect the aquatic environment that is their source of life. In fact, studies show that areas where sponges are harvested see an increase in population density. The sponges also have incredible regenerative abilities, thanks to the tides and currents, sponges can be carried to new locations and continue to thrive and grow.
How are Sea Sponges Processed?
After the harvest begins the processing. Once a year, usually at the end of September to the beginning of October, the boats return to the islands of Kalymnos and Crete in Greece. There, the sponges are sorted by specialised and experienced personnel, usually retired sponge-divers who relive their old life through this work, their life in the depths of the seas, the life that they loved so much.
The nature of the product and the fact that no sponge is the same as any other deters the development of modern automatic methods and techniques for the processing. So, everything is done by hand.
How do I clean my Sponge?
Taking care of your sea sponge is a breeze! A well-loved natural sea sponge can last for ages with just a little TLC. After each use, simply rinse with fresh water and gently squeeze it. Avoid wringing or twisting. To get the most out of your natural sea sponge please ensure it has a place to dry thoroughly in between uses, this will extend the life of your natural sea sponge.
Pro tip: once every 4 weeks, give it a little spa treatment! Soak it in a mixture of 1 tablespoon of baking soda and 1 cup of warm water for 15 minutes. This not only refreshes the sponge but also gives it a thorough clean. After soaking, rinse well and let it air dry. And if any frayed edges pop up, no worries—just trim them to keep your sponge looking and feeling fresh.
Should the sea sponge have a unique smell when it arrives?
Yes, as a 100% natural product, your Sea Sponge may have a distinct scent when it arrives, this is the natural sea fragrance that comes from its authentic Aegean origin. Rest assured, this scent will fade after the first rinse, leaving you with nothing but the calming, pure essence of nature.
