Will it scratch my plates or leave particles in my food?

Yes, the shell sponge is scratchy and hard, but only when it’s dry. Soak it in water for 15 seconds – no more, no less – and it’ll come out soft and won’t scratch a thing. As for microplastics, you can carry out the test described on the product page. It’ll show you that the loofah is identical to wood in terms of composition. So there’s no waste to shed. Unless you’re afraid of wood, our sponges are the best choice for you.

How can I tell if my sponge needs throwing away?

The loofah is made of directly harvested natural fibres, so it is normal to see fraying immediately after washing. This does not mean that they are good to throw away. Here's how to recognise a deteriorated loofah: 1- persistent bad odours; 2- Gaping hole that appears; 3-The colour goes from light beige to dark green, or even black. If you notice only one of these anomalies then it's time to say bye bye. If the warranty allows it, contact us directly to contact@gobuka.com

Why does it cost more than a regular sponge?

GOBUKA offers sponges that will last for months on end without you ever having to buy a single replacement; what’s more, our products guarantee that your washing-up will be free from that musty smell and texture that make you feel guilty. Finally, thanks to GOBUKA, you no longer run the risk of causing serious poisoning to your loved ones due to dubious sponges. For all these reasons, we sincerely believe that our sponges are well worth the price.

Will it fall apart and leave bits in my food?

That's a two-layer sponge problem — two materials held together with synthetic glue, and when the glue gives, so does everything else. The Shell is one material from edge to edge. Nothing to separate. Nothing to shed. Pull it apart if you'd like to check — you won't get far.

I've been burnt by 'eco' sponges before. What makes this different?

We know. "100% natural", "lasts for months", "machine washable" — and then it falls apart in week two. 

1-Our GOBUKA shell sponges are the only natural (loofah) sponges that don’t require you to soak them for 5 minutes before use. In fact, even 15 seconds is enough. Take the sponge out, soak it for 15 seconds, take it out again and start cleaning. 
2-We’re the only ones on the market who have such confidence in our products that we even provide tests for you to carry out at home to verify their composition; we’re so sure of our products that we make specific, quantifiable promises without exaggerating too much, though. 
3-Each of our sponges is made entirely from a single natural material (loofah). There are no layers bonded with synthetic glue. Say goodbye to double-layered sponges that fall apart after their third wash in the machine.
4-Our sponges are naturally made from dried plant fibres. So it’s normal to see some fraying after machine washing. However, we’ve worked on this too. This fraying phase lasts only a very short time, unlike with other loofahs
5-Finally (and we could go on), we offer you a guarantee of at least 2 months, which can extend – not to 5 months, not to 9 months, but to ONE year. Have you ever seen anything like it?

Does it actually clean as well as a regular sponge?

Yes — but it feels different. It's firmer than foam, which means less sponge pressure, more direct scrubbing. Some people need a few days to adjust the technique. If you're not convinced after trying it, that's what the guarantee is for. We'd rather you test it than take our word for it.

What if it doesn't work for me and I can't return it wet?

If your Shell doesn't perform as promised within the first month, contact us — we refund or replace. In any case, our sponges would have had plenty of time to dry by the time we got back, as they dry in an hour

How long will it actually last in good condition?

At least 1 month of daily use — that's the guarantee. In practice, most Shells last 2 to 3 months with normal use and one machine wash per week. You'll know it's time to replace it when the edges fray visibly, or when it still smells after drying completely. Until then, it's still working.