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Make a ritual out of bathing.

Bathing and showering have become self-care rituals in their own right. Additions like bath bombs, a good body wash, or even a fun shower cap can make getting clean feel all the more indulgent. But the best loofah, loofa, luffa—however you choose to spell it—is another easy way to level up your bathing ritual.

Loofah sponges are known for creating a nice lather, as well as gently buffing away dead skin, leaving you with a super-smooth feel. However, there are a few caveats that come with using a loofah—the first being maintenance. Continuously storing a loofah or sponge in a damp area can lead to bacteria or mold growth, which can in turn leave you with some major skin irritation. So it's important to follow care instructions and make sure your loofah always gets the chance to fully dry.

Another thing: Make sure you replace your loofah as directed, so you get the best lather and exfoliation each time. Natural versions will typically last a little longer than the colorful, netted pouf you commonly see in the store, and silicone versions seem to be the easiest to take care of (and are great for sensitive skin types).

While some of the loofahs topping our list are handheld, there are also great picks that were made to take care of those hard-to-reach areas like your back and even offer dual-purpose use options. If you’re ready to take your body care to next level, browse our list of the nine best loofahs ever.

The elastic grips on these loofah sponge pads make exfoliating in the shower beyond easy. Pro tip: After using, hang your loofah in a ventilated area to dry and make sure to replace it every three to four weeks to keep skin healthy.

Though it's not the traditional loofah, a silicone option is amazing for more sensitive skin types so you can lather up sans irritation.

Never worry about missing a spot with this natural loofah on a stick. That one weird spot on your lower back doesn't stand a chance.

Although it's not exactly the same as a loofah, a wool sea sponge is also a great option for lathering up. With proper care, this sponge can last a while without getting riddled with bacteria. Just make sure it fully air-dries after each use.

Another plant-based bath tool is the konjac sponge, made from the konjac root, popular in Asia. This sponge is known for being very gentle and gained traction Stateside as a gentle facial exfoliator (so you know the rest of your body is in good hands).

If you find yourself prone to getting rough or dry patches on your skin, regular, gentle exfoliation can help. These Egyptian loofah sponges buff away dead skin for a much smoother feel.

This dual-sided pouf features a flat loofah side for gentle exfoliation, while the netting on the opposite side creates a rich lather. Plus, the elastic grip makes bathing that much easier.

This bathing strap was specifically created to scrub your back. In addition to the handy design, one side features a flat loofah, while the other is a microfiber material.

This compostable konjac body sponge is great for all skin types and creates a creamy, rich lather without stripping your skin.