Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about what our sponges are made of, how to use and compost them, and how ordering works. Still have a question? Email support@scrubandthrow.com.

About the sponges

What are Scrub & Throw sponges made of?

Our loofah sponges are the dried fiber of the loofah gourd, a plant in the cucumber family. They are 100% plant-based, compostable, and USDA Certified Biobased, with no plastic backing, no synthetic foam and no binders. Our cellulose sponges are made from natural wood-pulp fiber.

Are loofah sponges plastic-free?

Yes. There is no plastic backing and no synthetic binding, so they do not shed microplastics down your drain the way foam sponges do.

What does USDA Certified Biobased mean?

An independent lab, Beta Analytic, measured where our materials' carbon comes from using ASTM D6866 radiocarbon testing, and the USDA BioPreferred Program certified the result. A brand cannot award itself this label, and you can look it up in the USDA BioPreferred database. Read the full details.

Loofah or cellulose: which should I buy?

Loofah is a scrubber, with a coarse texture for dishes, cookware, cast iron and sinks. Cellulose is a soaker, soft and absorbent for counters, glassware and spills. Most households keep both. Compare them side by side.

What is the difference between the standard and XL loofah sponge?

The XL is noticeably bigger in the hand, so it takes fewer passes on large cookware and has enough body to grip a skillet without folding.

Using them

Will a loofah sponge scratch non-stick pans?

No. Loofah is non-scratch on glass, stainless steel, ceramic and sealed or coated cookware.

Can a loofah sponge handle baked-on food?

It is a natural fiber, not a synthetic scouring pad. It handles daily dishes and grease easily. For crusted or scorched food, soak the pan first.

Why is the sponge flat when it arrives?

The sponges ship compressed to save space. Run one under warm water for a few seconds and it expands to full size.

How often should I replace my kitchen sponge?

Most people swap in a fresh sponge every 3 to 5 days, or sooner if it starts to smell. A kitchen sponge is one of the germiest things in the house, and replacing it often works better than trying to sanitize it.

Do unopened sponges expire?

No. Dry loofah has no additives, so an unopened box keeps indefinitely as long as it is stored somewhere dry.

After use

Can I compost Scrub & Throw sponges?

Yes. Put a worn-out sponge in your home compost or bury it in a garden bed. It is plant fiber and returns to the soil. No industrial facility is required.

What if I don't compost?

It can go in the regular trash, and it is still plant fiber rather than plastic. Composting is the better end of life for it.

Ordering

How fast do orders ship?

Most orders are processed within 1 to 2 business days and ship by standard carrier. Shipping is free on orders over $35.

Which pack is the best value?

The 180-Pack has the lowest cost per sponge. For everyday households, the 30-Pack works out to about 67 cents per sponge.

Do you sell wholesale to hotels and Airbnbs?

Yes, with no minimum order. See our bulk packs. If you need more than a 180-Pack, email support@scrubandthrow.com with your property count.

Where can I buy Scrub & Throw sponges?

Here at scrubandthrow.com and in our Amazon store.

What if I'm not happy with my order?

Email support@scrubandthrow.com and we will make it right.