Brightly colored, synthetic bath sponges and kitchen scrubbers are a familiar sight, but growing your own natural sponges will provide you with a supply of more planet-friendly alternatives.

Loofahs are not sponges derived from ocean-dwelling animals.

Natural loofah sponges actually come from the fruits of vine-growing Luffa plants. These plants are part of the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae) making them relatives of watermelons, cucumbers, and pumpkins. When a luffa fruit dries out and is peeled, you are left with its fibrous interior, which can be used as a sponge.