Report – How a Company in Galicia Is Revolutionizing Natural Luffa Sponges
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100% natural sponges grown in Galicia through fully organic methods – this is not just a slogan, but the daily work of an innovative company based in Caldas de Reis (Pontevedra). In just four years, the company has sold thousands of units and introduced new products to the market, such as makeup remover pads, bottle cleaners, and much more.
From Vine to Luffa – Innovation in Rural Galicia
What may look like oversized cucumbers or zucchinis are actually luffa fruits, the base of these 100% plant-based sponges, growing by the hundreds in the Galician countryside. Juan Carlos, founder of the company, began growing them on a former vineyard owned by his family.
The result: luffas reaching up to 1.3 meters long, producing a completely biodegradable natural fiber with unique qualities.
Blending Genetics, Science & Local Knowledge
Every three years, the company cultivates new plant lines, improving genetics through careful crossbreeding. This ongoing evolution is key to achieving higher quality – combined with a deep understanding of the species and its cultivation needs.
Thanks to favorable weather conditions, this year’s harvest has been excellent. Each fruit can yield 500 to 1,000 seeds, which are carefully selected and classified.
Thermal Water: The Secret to Their Softness
One of the company’s advantages is the use of thermal spring water from Caldas de Reis, naturally heated to about 43 °C. This water aids in the decomposition of the luffa’s outer shell and enhances the formation of the internal fiber, which is known for being skin-soothing and restorative.
From Skincare to High-Tech Applications
After soaking, the luffas are dried for 4–5 days, resulting in fibers of varying density and structure – ideal for crafting:
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Bath sponges
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Exfoliating mitts
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Bottle brushes
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Dish scrubbers
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And much more
Used dry, luffa gently exfoliates the skin; used wet, it hydrates and soothes – offering benefits no plastic sponge can match.
Looking Ahead: Sustainable Innovation
The company is already experimenting with advanced uses, such as computer casings made from luffa fiber – a brilliant example of what knowledge, research, and dedication can achieve in rural Galicia.
Note: This blog article is based on the video “Esponjas 100% naturales cultivadas en Galicia,” published on YouTube by TVG / G24 / CRTVG. All rights to the video belong to the original publisher. This article was written by our team.