The African exfoliating net, also known as a Sapo or bathing sponge, is gaining significant attention in the beauty scene, thanks to social media. However, this remarkable bathing tool has deep roots in traditional African beauty culture and has been used for centuries in Western Africa.
Bellanomi African exfoliating net sponge has already sold over 150,000 units, with customers praising its incredible effect on restoring their skin’s natural radiance. The material and length of the African net sponge make it a staple for daily cleaning and is suitable for men, women, and children.
What is the African Bath Cloth (Sapo)?
The African exfoliating net sponge, more traditionally known as the sapo sponge, is an incredible bathing tool that is kind to your skin and the environment. This durable yet gentle sponge is made of sustainably sourced, hypoallergenic nylon, and reduces waste by allowing you to use less soap. We pride ourselves on the fact that our product is ethically and sustainably sourced directly from local, fair-trade producers in Nigeria.
Dimensions and Sizes
- Size: The nets stretch! Stretches from 45-50 inches in length and 16-20 inches in width.
- Mini versions: 13 inches wide.
- Dimensions: Stretches to 42 inches by 16 inches.
Remember, our nets are handmade, so sizes may vary slightly. The nets will stretch and relax over time. If you have shoulder or back problems we highly recommend getting our Jumbo size which has even more length! Please Note: Colors may vary based on your screen.
Benefits of Using an African Net Sponge
Here are several key benefits of incorporating the African net sponge into your daily routine:
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- Exfoliation: The intricate mesh design gently exfoliates your skin, even in the most delicate areas. It effectively removes dead cells and unclogs pores to give you a deeper cleansing experience. Your skin will be noticeably smoother and supple, even after one use.
- Accessibility: The African net sponge is designed with an elongated shape and flexible material to help you effortlessly reach difficult-to-access areas. Stretch out to clean the back while exfoliating.
- Hygiene: The unique, porous structure of the African exfoliating net sponge enables quicker drying, drastically reducing the likelihood of mold or bacterial growth. The lightweight, quick-drying nature of the sponge makes it great for travel.
- Quality Materials: Our African net sponges are crafted from the highest-quality materials.
- Sustainability: Thoughtfully crafted from sustainable materials, the African net sponge is a long-lasting option that can be used for years with proper care. You’ll no longer toss loofahs in the trash on a monthly basis when you invest in one of our durable net sponges. By using an authentic African exfoliating net, you can start to live a more sustainable lifestyle.
How to Use the African Exfoliating Net
Using the African exfoliating net sponge is as easy as 1-2-3. Wet the African net sponge and add a small amount of body wash or natural soap. Wet sponge add body wash or bar soap and scrub all body parts. Pair with our unscented body oil and shimmer body oil for soft moisturized skin.
Care Instructions
The African net sponge can last up to two years with proper care including regular machine or hand washing. African exfoliating nets dry almost immediately after use and can be machine-washed for a deeper clean. Does not need to be washed frequently but can be washed weekly in the washing machine or hand-washed.
The Authentic African Bath Sponge AKA Sapɔ
Ghana’s official first bath tool was originally very similar to a loofah. This bath tool is called Sapɔ (pronounced Sapo). The meaning of Sapɔ in Ghana is used for anything that is used to take a bath or clean oneself.
The use of the original African Loofah, aka Sapɔ, dates back centuries and was used way before our magical mesh that we call LUV SCRUB Mesh Body Exfoliator. Believe it or not, this African mesh exfoliator is newer and has not been used for centuries, as some have claimed. Hence, we at LUV SCRUB state that it has been used for generations.
The Original Sapɔ
It is made from a stringy bark-like material that grows from a tree. There are several trees that grow this special loofah-like African bath sponge. A few of the trees are called Bekye, Abaapee, and Ntwetwehoma. These trees grow only in rural parts and not in the city. The original Sapɔ was loved by many and was a staple before the nylon African mesh bath cloth was introduced in the seventies.
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There was a lot to love about the original African loofah. Sapɔ cleans and exfoliates the skin well, and it’s a plus that it is natural from a tree. It comes in different shades, light and dark “toasted.” Despite its natural form, it is long-lasting and dries fast due to the hot temperatures in Ghana.
With these great benefits, there is also a downside. With time, the stringy bark clogged the plumbing, which caused a lot of issues for septic systems. It worked well for people who lived in rural areas and villages that did not have the sophisticated septic systems that you would find in more modern areas.
The original Sapɔ is still available today, but not at the scale (it’s almost extinct) that it was before. Also, you can’t beat the mesh. It’s magic. My Dad recommends if you decide to purchase the original Sapo, purchase it with caution due to the issue of it clogging your drain. Also, the temperature might be challenging to fully dry, which can breed bacteria if damp/wet. Don’t forget you will need help washing your back.
Transition to the Mesh Cloth
So when the cloth was introduced in the early seventies, it was easy to transition. The African mesh cloth overall has so many benefits. It lasts longer than Sapo, and you can reach your back with ease.
According to my Dad, someone used the mesh cloth out of the blue and realized it was a great way to clean your skin; the rest is history. It’s that simple.
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Disclaimer: This is based on the experience of my parents, who were born and raised in Kumasi, Ghana, and are a part of the Ashanti tribe.
