RIP Shower Pouf

Everyone likes a good lather in the shower and I’m no different.  I’ve come to realize that a shower pouf or loofah just isn’t worth it.   For starters, I’ve learned they harbor bacteria and are actually very unsanitary.  I usually keep mine for several months to be less wasteful but it is actually recommended that you throw it out after three or four weeks.  The one I’ve been using for what I now realize is a disgustingly long time is finally ready to meet its maker, so to speak. The shower pouf has been on my list of things not to replace at the end of its life now that we are on our journey of less waste.  The pouf is made of plastic, of course, and even if you argue that some are made out of recycled plastic or that some places recycle them, I just don’t find that suitable at this point in our journey. First of all, I don’t think recycling plastic into lower quality items justifies making plastic at the rate in which we do.  Second, I highly doubt that a plastic pouf can be recycled curbside. Even if it can be recycled, what could it possibly be recycled into? I really like how my family has been changing over to reusable items and I decided the best option is to buy washcloths that are one hundred percent cotton. I forgot to check for this minor detail when shopping so these new washcloths won’t be composted at the end of their life but it is still much more sustainable than a “disposable” pouf.  Reusable items are great because they save money and trips to the store. Reusable items seem to make life a little simpler, and I really like that. Obviously, reusable items are better for the planet as well. Remember the journey is about small steps, and every step makes a difference. If the shower pouf is a deal breaker for you, keep it, if not, give the old washcloth a try.

The pouf that is dead to me.