FAQ
We hope that we have covered all the information you need to decide to include LoofCo products in your home and lifestyle. However, we thought that it would be helpful to round up some frequently asked questions. If you have any more queries, then please feel free to get in touch!
Where do loofahs come from? I thought they were sea creatures.
It is a common mistake; we are asked this a lot! In fact, loofah plant is a vigorously growing vine from the cucumber family that is rich in durable fibres yet soft and flexible. When ripe, the inside of the loofah fruit develops a network of fibres that are perfect for cleaning and exfoliating purposes when dried. LoofCo loofahs are harvested, peeled, deseeded, then dried, cut into lengths and processed by hand in Egypt. This natural tradition that has been passed down through the generations.
Where do LoofCo rubberwood handles come from?
Rubberwood comes from the Sri Lankan Rubber Tree (Hevea brasiliensis). Once these plantation trees are no longer of any use in extracting rubber, the wood is used for furniture etc. So LoofCo wooden handles use what is effectively a waste product from the rubber industry in that sense as it no longer serves that purpose.
What farming practices in Egypt are used for LoofCo loofahs?
Loofah is a wild growing vine that will not allow the growth of any grasses or clovers in its neighbourhood or root area, so herbicides are not used. Loofah is naturally resistant to fungal infections and when infected, they lead to rot of the inside of the fruit which is usually collected and burned. In some cases, Sulphur is used on the shoots and leaves, not fruits, which is organic approved. Pests rarely attack the Loofah fruits themselves, and if they do, they will produce some brown patches that are discarded during processing. In only about 5% of cases would farmers need to revert to a pesticide. So only if necessary, will water soluble or natural pesticides with effects of less than 4 days on plants be used. However, pesticides that contain phosphorus are not used at all.
In summary, our loofahs are grown with minimal intervention as a robust and vigorous vine that resists pests and fungal infections. In rare cases, safe organic approved pesticides might be used for a few days. However, this is also a cost that the farmers prefer to avoid.
What are the clear circular stickers made from?
Our LoofCo labels are secured with clear cellulose sticker. This clear sticker is produced from wood pulp sourced from managed plantations, the material is biodegradable and compostable.