sea sponge tampons
Jessica Young
Updated on June 08, 2026
Sea sponges are incredibly absorbent, and they expand to retain the liquid inside of them. Some companies market sea sponges as a natural alternative to other period products. These companies claim that menstrual sea sponges can be used similarly to a tampon, rinsed, and reused for six to twelve months.
Are sea sponges safe to use?
No worries: natural sea sponges are safe for all skin types; especially suitable for the most sensitive of skins!
How do you clean a sea sponge tampon?
Use a natural chemical-free soap or soak for 5-10 minutes in a cup of warm water with one of the following:
2-3 drops tea tree oil.1 tbsp vinegar.1 tbsp baking soda (helps restore volume and density)1 tsp hydrogen peroxide (helps eliminate discoloration)
Do sea sponges cause TSS?
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia also reported one case of TSS associated with the use of a sea sponge, and another case which possibly was associated with the use of a sponge.
How long can you leave a sea sponge tampon in?
4) Generally, sea sponge tampons should be removed whenever they feel full. or at least every 6-8 hours, to rinse and then reinsert.
How do sponges stop periods?
You simply wet the sponge, then squeeze it out (so it is softened) then insert it as you would a tampon. It will absorb your menstrual flow and should be rinsed before being reinserted.
Are sea sponges sanitary?
Sea sponges inhibit bacteria, mold and mildew; Sea Sponges are permeated with natural enzymes that inhibit the growth of mold, mildew and bacteria. Durability; A properly cared for sea sponge will last for many months.
Do sea sponges hold bacteria?
If you’re new to using a natural sea sponge, you may not know that they require regular maintenance. Despite having natural antimicrobial properties, sea sponges can harbor bacteria just like synthetic body scrubbers, explains Caren Campbell, MD, a San Fransico-based board-certified dermatologist.
Are sea sponges better than Loofahs?
Sea sponge is an alternative to loofahs. Like loofahs, they don’t have any dyes, preservatives, or chemicals inside. Sea sponge has some naturally occurring enzymes that kill bacteria. Sea sponge will still need to be cleaned regularly, dried after your shower, and replaced frequently.
Why was the Today Sponge discontinued?
Originally developed in the 1980s, the Today Sponge was pulled off the market in 1994 after inspectors from the Food and Drug Administration found bacterial contamination at its manufacturing plant.
Is the sponge still on the market?
The Today sponge, discontinued in 1995, may be back on shelves this fall, thanks to Allendale Pharmaceuticals of Allendale, New Jersey. When the apparatus became scarce and, ultimately unavailable, many sponge devotees were outraged.