What is a natural sea sponge?

Even though sponges may look like plants, they are indeed a very simple form of sea animal without brain or nervous system. A sponge attaches itself permanently to something on the
ocean floor, such as a rock or coral, then feeds off life forms as small as bacteria, plancton and organic particles.

Through many holes, canals, chambers, and pores, they are the ultimate filters.
If harvested responsibly (meaning leaving the root and base of the sponge intact) natural sea sponge is a renewable resource from the sea which has been harvested for over 150yrs.

How to take care of your natural sea sponge

How do I maintain my natural sea sponge?

Never use your sponge in combination with harsh chemicals. Use your natural sea sponge in combination with gentle horse shampoos, such as Aspire's Equine Wash.

Never apply the shampoo directly onto the sponge. Instead, dilute the shampoo in water, then apply the soapy water to the horse.
Rinse your sponge thoroughly with cold or hot water after use, then press squeeze out the water and place it on a dish rack or in a net or similar for drying.

How do I disinfect my sea sponge if needed?

Only disinfect your sea sponge occasionally. Here different ways to do this:

1. Dilute a few drops of tea trea oil in a cup of warm water. Soak the sponge and let it sit for about 1/2 hour, then rinse and dry as usual. Tea tree oil is a natural germicide. OR
2. Dilute on TB of apple cider vinegar in 1 cup of warm water. Soak the sponge for about 15 minutes, then rinse and dry as usual. This is especially helpful if you suspect that your sponge has gotten in contact with fungi. OR
3. In extreme cases: Dilute on Teaspoon of Colloidal Silver in 1 cup fo warm water. Soak for about 7 minutes. Rinse and dry as usual. Colloidial silver will kill all pathogenic organisms. Only use if needed... For most applications a) or b) will be completely sufficient.

WHAT NOT TO DO WITH YOUR NATURAL SEA SPONGE

• Do NOT wash in the washing machine/put in the dryer.
• Do NOT put in the microwave.
• Do NOT use in combination with bleach, Lysol, or other harsh chemicals.

Other questions about sponges:

What are the advantages of using a natural sea sponge versus a synthetic sponge?

• Synthetic sponges trap germs and bacteria inside and dry much more slowly than natural sponges.
• Natural sea sponges actually have enzymes in them that inhibit the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria
• They are gentler and more effective. (Try it with your free cosmetic sponge!)
• They are much more absorbant and do not develop unpleasant odors.
• They are toxin-free and hypoallergenic.
• They are eco-friendly and natural, not harmful chemicals are used for their production.
• If treated properly, natural sea sponges can last for several years (up to 8 years or more!) since they are more resistant to abrasion.

Where do natural sea sponges come from?

All our natural sea sponges are sourced in the Bahamas and are therefore a US product.
There are, however, many other areas in the world where sponges are harvested.

What type of sponges are there?

There are many different types of natural sponges, the most popular being the sea wool sponge, which is also your typical bath sponge. We sell the sea wool sponge, which is suitable for horse care and for human cosmetic care.