For many, a washcloth is nothing more than an attribute of hygiene. At the same time, a properly selected washcloth can serve as a massager or scrubber. There are washcloths on the market that are quite useful in dealing with ingrown hairs and orange peel. As you can see, this hygiene accessory can be useful for the body and the beauty of our body.

Choosing your natural washcloth

Doctors say that a washcloth is healthier than the one made from natural materials, since only they are able to improve a person’s well-being and mood in a record short time. However, you need to understand that each product has its own pros and cons.

One of the trends in the modern market is that natural products are slowly but surely replacing analogues made from artificial materials. The reason for this is that every year there are more and more people leading a healthy lifestyle.

Washcloths from natural materials don't provoke allergic reaction. At the same time, they perfectly exfoliate dead skin cells.

Disadvantages of washcloths made from natural materials:
noticeably inferior to synthetic products in terms of service life;
takes a long time to dry;
this is a favorable environment for microorganisms;
require care, which consists of thorough washing, drying in well-ventilated places and treatment with antibacterial agents.
In any case, when choosing a washcloth, you should primarily be guided by personal preferences.
So, let's look at each type of natural washcloths in more detail.

Linen washcloths

The healing properties of flax products were known to our ancestors. After the Second World War, scientists were puzzled by scientific research into the properties of flax. The results of these studies allowed us to confirm folk wisdom concerning flax and its ability to relieve ailments. Flax products stimulate blood circulation and have a beneficial effect on the psyche.

The main advantage of linen washcloths is their antiseptic properties. No microorganism can get along with flax.

Unfortunately, linen washcloths are a rare “inhabitant” of store shelves.

Loofah sponges

Loofah is a plant belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family. You can often hear the second name of this representative of the plant world – “mad cucumber”. Loofah fruits are very similar to zucchini. If desired, you can make a washcloth from such material at home. When ripe, the inside of the fruit is dry and fibrous. Therefore, to obtain a washcloth, it is enough to dry them, then soak them in water so that the skin softens, and peel the “cucumbers” and remove the pulp from the inner fibers. The washcloth is ready. All that remains is to wash it in soapy water and dry it in the sun.

Loofah sponges exfoliate the skin well, they have a massage and anti-cellulite effect.

It is impossible not to note the strength and long term service of such washcloths. Of course, these hygiene accessories have disadvantages:
foam does not form on the surface of the washcloth;
Before use, the washcloth is pre-soaked in hot water. This softens the material.

Loofah washcloths will be a great purchase for people with oily skin . For people with thin and sensitive skin A washcloth won't work: it's too rough. According to customer reviews, the presentation of washcloths-mittens after several water procedures leaves much to be desired, so it is better to purchase washcloths from a single piece.

Sisal washcloths

Sisal is a coarse, durable material derived from the leaves of the Mexican agave plant. It is used to make ropes, twines, mattresses, brushes and washcloths.
Typically, such washcloths are produced in the form of woven mittens that have high peeling properties. Due to their hardness, these washcloths should be used a maximum of twice a week. Sisal washcloths are primarily recommended for people who fight cellulite.

It is better to avoid such a hygiene accessory if you have delicate skin or a large number of moles. These washcloths require pre-soaking, do not hold foam well and are quite expensive, but they exfoliate old cells well and last a long time.

Bast sponges

Not only bast shoes and matting are woven from non-woody wood, but also washcloths, which are considered a bath masterpiece of naturalism, obtained from the lower part of the bark of a young linden tree. There is an opinion that such washcloths are the most beneficial for the skin.

Don't be afraid that the bast sponge will be too hard. In water, the bast softens and gently exfoliates dead cells, deeply cleanses pores, in addition, releases phytoncides. This version of washcloths does not shine with durability, but this is justified by their cheap price.

Ramie washcloths

In stores you can often see woven washcloths made from ramie - Chinese nettle. In terms of hardness, such washcloths are somewhere between loofah and sisal. A hygiene product made from Chinese nettle, like all hard washcloths, has anti-cellulite and massage properties. Only, unlike other hard washcloths made from natural raw materials, these are gentle on the skin, gently sanding it.

Ramie washcloths are durable and relatively inexpensive. Consumers did not find any disadvantages with these washcloths.

Bristle washcloths

Such accessories are produced in the form of brushes, the material for which is natural bristles. The design feature of such washcloths is a long wooden handle. They provide deep cleansing of the skin from dirt, dust and dead cells.
These washcloths are great for massaging problem areas. Massage is performed in a circular motion from the wrists to the shoulders, from the legs to the thighs, bypassing the chest and areas with lymph nodes. A 2-5 minute procedure is sufficient.

Birch bark washcloths

Birch bark is a rich source of the natural antiseptic betulin, which contains many silver ions. The biological role of betulin is to protect the tree from fungal diseases and pests (it is the cause white birch bark).

Therefore, we can confidently say that these washcloths have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, and, therefore, help people suffering from acne.

Birch bark washcloths have good scrubbing effect and help fight orange peel.

But, like all natural products, original Russian washcloths are not cheap, and they are also a rare product.
Disadvantages of birch bark washcloths: before use, the washcloth should be soaked in boiling water for 10-15 minutes; Dry thoroughly after washing.

Eco-scrubbers

The material for such washcloths is cellulose. Although they are made of wood, they feel soft and elastic to the touch. Outwardly, they are very similar to foam sponges, but differ in their fibrous structure. Washcloths have a lot of advantages: soft; beat the foam well; after drying, they become hard, so they do not collect microbes inside them.

Sea sponges

These are very delicate washcloths, obtained from primitive multicellular organisms, subjected to special processing, after which only a “skeleton” remains of them. Washcloths are sold in solid form, but after soaking they acquire a soft, porous structure. Once dry, the sponges harden again, which prevents germs from growing in them.

Here are some benefits of sea sponges:

excellent foaming; gentle exfoliation of the skin; fits better than other washcloths for little children.

You probably won’t find a more delicate natural washcloth. True, the price of sea sponges is steep, and this is even with a short service life. Sponges should be changed every two to three months.

Kese mittens

The kese mitten has long been used instead of the usual washcloth in the Turkish bath. The mitten is a silk bag with a tightening cuff or ties. Cotton and silk kesse with synthetic fibers are also sold, making the washcloths tougher and more durable.
At first glance, it seems that the mitten is too delicate, but when wet it becomes rough and provides a strong scrubbing effect.

Traditionally, kese is used in baths and saunas, when the skin is thoroughly steamed. However, you can use this glove at home after taking a hot bath. First, you should wash with soap or shower gel, and only then walk over your body with a silk glove.
When using kese, you do not need to apply any detergents to your skin. After peeling, take a warm shower and apply to the body nourishing cream or moisturizing milk. You should use the kese mitten no more than twice a week.
It is worth saying that after just a few procedures the mitten becomes smooth and loses its scrubbing properties.

So, we looked at the main types of washcloths made from natural materials.

How to make a natural washcloth with your own hands and why should it be natural? This is explained in this video:

Olga Nikitina


Reading time: 18 minutes

A A

It would seem, well, a washcloth and a washcloth are an ordinary item “for 5 kopecks” for body hygiene. However, when the right approach This little thing, mixing gel foam, becomes a scrubber, a massager, and a remedy for ingrown hairs and orange peel. That is, a high-quality washcloth is the best “friend and comrade” for your skin.

Let's choose the right washcloth together!

4 types of synthetic body washcloths - the pros and cons of synthetic washcloths

Such washcloths “live” in almost every bathroom - different shapes and sizes, multi-colored and plain, made of polyester or viscose, nylon, etc.

Their popularity is explained by the following advantages:

  • Affordable price.
  • Longer lifespan compared to natural ones.
  • Saving detergent(higher foaming).
  • And one of the most significant advantages: such washcloths are not an attractive environment for germs and bacteria. (if you care for them properly, of course).
  • Machine and hand washable.
  • Possibility of processing with special means.

Flaws:

  1. Risk of allergies (especially in a hot bath).
  2. Risk of poisoning harmful substances, released from synthetic washcloth.
  3. Lack of ability to withstand high temperatures.

Choosing a synthetic washcloth - types

1. Foam sponges

Delicate and soft, giving abundant foam. Of course, they cannot thoroughly wash the body due to their structure, but there are also combined options.

Flaws:

  • They turn sour quickly (if you don’t dry them in time).
  • They quickly lose their presentation (tear).
  • Too bright foam “bunnies” and “fruits” can cause allergies.

The most ideal option for rough skin. Most often they are used by the strong half of humanity.

Typically, such washcloths are made quite long and have handles attached to both sides - for comfortable washing of the back.

Flaws:

  • Too rough (not suitable for sensitive and delicate skin).
  • The quality, as a rule, leaves much to be desired.

Also made from polyethylene. Small in size, lightweight and travel-friendly, very quick-drying and inexpensive - they have become very popular in Russian bathrooms.

Flaws:

  • They quickly lose their presentation (unwind, tear at the base). Perhaps this is their only drawback.

They were invented back in the distant 60s by enterprising Japanese. The washcloth is a “canvas” of specially woven nylon threads.

Pros:

  • Strong and durable.
  • Various hardness (you can choose to suit your skin).
  • They have special additives in the composition for gommage.
  • Convenient to wash (any part of the body is accessible to them).
  • Massage effect.

The washcloth has one drawback - its large size.

8 types of natural washcloths for washing your body - advantages and disadvantages

Over the past 3-5 years, our country has seen a real (and so far never-ending) boom in purchasing goods of natural origin. People are tired of synthetics in everything, and are striving for healthy image life, which includes the use of natural materials in all areas of everyday life.

Of course, a natural washcloth will be “closer to the body”, thanks to plant-based useful components, structure and cleansing properties.

It is also worth noting the anti-cellulite and massage effect.

True, such washcloths also have disadvantages:

  • Special care is required.
  • Fragility (and sometimes just disposability).
  • An ideal environment for rotting processes and bacterial growth. Moreover, no matter how carefully you wash, dry and treat the washcloth with special means.

Choosing a natural washcloth - the main types...

1. Linen

An ideal product for cleansing pores, stimulating blood microcirculation and providing a high-quality massage effect.

  • Excellent foaming.
  • High water absorption properties.
  • Long service life.
  • No allergies to the material.
  • Exfoliating effect.

Flaws:

  • The need for careful care.
  • Difficult to find on sale.

2. From loofah

A product from a plant called "crazy cucumber".

  • Perfectly and deeply cleanses the skin.
  • Has massage and exfoliating properties.
  • Has an anti-cellulite effect.
  • Accelerates the process of cell regeneration.
  • It serves for a long time and has increased strength.

Flaws:

  • Rough (not suitable for sensitive skin).
  • Requires softening (usually it is simply soaked in hot water 15 minutes before the bath).

3. Made from sisal

Many people have heard about the fiber obtained from agave leaves. As a rule, such washcloths are cute woven mittens.

Among the advantages are:

  • Pronounced anti-cellulite effect.
  • Peeling properties and acceleration of blood circulation.
  • Long service life.

There are many more disadvantages:

  • Increased rigidity (too rough washcloth). It is not recommended to use it more than twice a week. And for people with abundant and sensitive skin, it is better to abandon it altogether in favor of a softer washcloth.
  • Low foaming.
  • Requires soaking in hot water.
  • High price.

4. From bast

This bathhouse “masterpiece of naturalism” is made from the subcortical linden layer. It is generally accepted that such a washcloth is the most beneficial for the skin of all existing natural ones.

Pros:

  • Deep cleansing of pores.
  • Destruction of microbes (note – release of phytoncides during the washing process).
  • Exfoliating pronounced effect.
  • Low cost.
  • Medium hardness and softening in water.

Flaws:

  • Short lifespan (the washcloth begins to crumble).

5. From ramie

Bath item created from Chinese nettle. Has a mesh structure.

Advantages:

  • Anti-cellulite and massage properties.
  • Gentle abrasive action – gentle cleansing.
  • Stimulation of blood circulation.
  • Durability and low price.

Consumers did not find any disadvantages with such washcloths.

6. Birch bark

A useful and effective washcloth that perfectly cleanses the skin.

  • Has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Has a massage effect.
  • Deeply cleanses pores and successfully eliminates acne.
  • Helps in the fight against orange peel.

Flaws:

  • High price.
  • Difficult to find on sale.

This brush with a long handle was very popular in Soviet times. Its handle and base are made of wood, and the washing part itself is made of natural bristles.

Advantages:

  • Deep cleansing.
  • Pronounced massage effect.

Flaws:

  • Large size.
  • Hardness (note – not suitable for frequent use).

Very soft, delicate and pleasant to the body - with a porous soft structure. They foam well and do not cause skin irritation or allergies.

They can be easily used on baby skin or to cleanse delicate facial skin.

But there are also disadvantages:

  • Very short life span.
  • Very high cost.
  • Hardens after drying.
  • Requires replacement every 2-3 months.

Of course, these are not all washcloths. There are also examples for hamam, eco-scrubbers made of cellulose, and so on. The variety is great, and the choice is limited only by wishes and wallet size.

Rules for using a washcloth for washing and caring for the body

Even children know that every person has a washcloth, like a comb or toothbrush. exclusively my own. And, of course, the rules of care apply to it to the same extent as to other personal items.

  • We change the washcloth every 2-5 months, in accordance with the material. The artificial one can be changed less often, the natural one – regularly!
  • After the washing procedure, be sure to thoroughly rinse the washcloth. and dry it no less thoroughly.
  • We treat the washcloth with antiseptic agents 1-2 times a week or soak in boiling water, if the material allows. You can use a solution of boiling water and vinegar.
  • Keep washcloths away from the sun and radiators (we extend its service life).
  • We don’t use hard washcloths every day! The scrubbing effect can become a real headache if you use them more than once a week. Like scrub masks, these washcloths are recommended to be used 4-5 times a month so as not to cause irritation and inflammation of the skin.
  • Do not twist the washcloths when spinning (lose its shape and appearance)!
  • If the material allows, you can wash the washcloth in the washing machine once a week. with other things.
  1. For every day – soft sea or synthetic sponge.
  2. For convenient back washing – a loofah sponge or a long-handled brush.
  3. To combat cellulite and massage effect - a hard washcloth. For example, from bast or ramie.
  4. For feet and elbows - a sisal washcloth.

The site site thanks you for your attention to the article! We will be very pleased if you share your opinion and reviews about the washcloths you like!

Washcloth— our constant and faithful companion during all hygiene procedures. What criteria should you use to select a washcloth, how do washcloths from different materials and what is the advantage of a washcloth over a sponge?

1. Foam sponges good for daily showering. It is enough to lightly rub the foam rubber with soap or drop a few drops of shower gel on it - and you will be provided with persistent, abundant foam. Caring for such a sponge is quite simple: the foam rubber is washed well with running water and dries quickly.

However, foam sponges are not able to properly wash the skin: they simply glide over its surface. Too delicate sponges also do not provide a peeling effect, that is, they do not exfoliate dead cells from the surface of the skin. In addition, foam sponges wear out very quickly.

2. Cellulose sponges They are similar in appearance to foam rubber, but differ from them in their structure. Foam rubber is porous, cellulose is porous-fibrous, and therefore more durable.

Cellulose sponges have one interesting feature: when dry they are hard, hard and even somewhat reminiscent of pumice, but when wet they soften and become almost like their foam “relatives”.

The service life of a cellulose sponge is longer than that of a foam sponge, but their other advantages and disadvantages are similar.

3. Sea sponges They are made, as you might guess, from invertebrate inhabitants of the ocean depths, processing them in a special way. Sea sponge is ideal for sensitive skin, cleanses the body well, provides a light massage effect and allows you to use shower products very economically. However, sea sponge has two significant drawbacks: a very short service life (even compared to foam rubber) and an extremely high price.

4. Nylon sponges They are strong and elastic, but at the same time they slowly get wet, so you need to wash them carefully, and with strong pressure they even scratch the skin.

5. Viscose fiber washcloths quickly and evenly soak in water, gently and gently cleanse the skin, but at the same time very quickly become unusable.

6. Knitted washcloths cleanses the skin very well, rubs and massages it. How larger knit such a washcloth, the rougher it scrubs the skin. Washing with such washcloths cannot be called delicate, but it is certainly very effective.

7. Bast sponges made from the inner layer of linden bark. Steamed and soaked, such a washcloth becomes soft and thoroughly scrubs the skin, cleansing it of a layer of dead cells. In addition, linden fibers secrete phytoncides - biologically active substances that have a beneficial effect on the condition of the upper respiratory tract.

Bast sponges have one serious drawback: during the washing process, the wood fiber crumbles and small particles of bast remain in the bathtub, which can clog the drain, so the bathtub drain hole must be protected with a grate or mesh.

8. Sisal washcloths are considered leaders among other washcloths made from natural materials. Sisal (you can also find the variants “sesal”, “sisal”) is coarse fiber made from Mexican agave leaves, a very durable and tough material.

Sisal washcloths, usually woven or knitted, are great for deep cleansing and massage, and in some cases can even replace a scrub. However, it is not recommended to use them for daily washing, as they are quite irritating to the skin. It is enough to use sisal washcloths once a week

Attention! Never use a sisal washcloth if you have sensitive skin, a lot of moles, or inflammation.

9. Luffa sponges(“luffs” or “loofas”) are also quite popular. Luffa is a plant from the Cucurbitaceae family, better known as the “crazy cucumber.” Washcloths are made from dried fibers of this plant, which soften when wet and become hard again when dry.

A luffa washcloth cleanses the skin well and provides a peeling effect; you can use it 1-2 times a week. Small and soft washcloths made from unripe luffa are suitable for children and people with sensitive skin. Thick, hard, with black grains interspersed with ripened luffa washcloths cleanse the skin more roughly, but also more effectively.

10. Ramie washcloths are not as common as previous species. Ramie, or Chinese nettle, is a plant from the nettle family, native to East Asia, used to create a variety of fabric products, including washcloths. Distinctive feature Ramie washcloths have a fine mesh structure, so they are perfect for massage and self-massage.

11.Rubber sponges with a handle are somewhat out of the presented range, however, they still deserve mention, because rubber sponges are indispensable assistants in the fight against cellulite.