Transform a natural loofah into a beautiful, functional soap dispenser that doubles as rustic bathroom decor. This simple project combines the organic texture of loofah with the practicality of a pump dispenser, creating an eco-friendly bathroom upgrade that guests will love.
Unlike plastic soap dispensers that end up in landfills, a loofah-wrapped dispenser is partially biodegradable and brings natural warmth to any bathroom or kitchen. It's also a perfect handmade gift for eco-conscious friends and family.
What You'll Need
Project Supplies
Materials
- 1 dried loofah (whole)
- Mason jar or glass container
- Soap pump dispenser lid
- Hot glue sticks
- Twine or jute rope (optional)
Tools
- Sharp scissors or utility knife
- Hot glue gun
- Measuring tape
- Bowl of warm water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start with a fully dried loofah. Soak it in warm water for 5-10 minutes to make it pliable and easier to work with. This prevents cracking when you cut and shape it.
Once softened, squeeze out excess water. The loofah should be damp but not dripping.
Measure the height of your jar (excluding the neck). Cut a section of loofah to match this height. The loofah needs to wrap around the jar's circumference, so measure that as well.
Using sharp scissors or a utility knife, cut the loofah lengthwise to create a flat sheet. If your loofah is hollow, this is easy — just slice along one side.
With your loofah sheet still damp, wrap it around the jar to test the fit. Mark where the edges meet, allowing for a small overlap (about ½ inch).
Apply hot glue in a vertical line along the jar, then press the loofah edge into it. Work your way around the jar, applying glue in sections and smoothing the loofah as you go.
Where the ends meet, apply extra glue to secure the overlap. Hold firmly until the glue sets (about 30 seconds).
Apply a thin line of hot glue around the top and bottom edges of the loofah, pressing it firmly against the jar. This prevents the loofah from peeling away over time.
For extra security (and a decorative touch), wrap twine or jute rope around the top and bottom edges, securing with a dab of glue.
Fill your jar with liquid soap (hand soap, dish soap, or body wash works great). Screw on the pump dispenser lid. Make sure the pump tube reaches the bottom of the jar.
Test the pump to ensure it works smoothly. If the tube is too long, trim it to the appropriate length.
Allow your finished dispenser to dry completely before regular use. The loofah will shrink slightly as it dries, creating an even tighter fit around the jar.
Place in a well-ventilated area for 24 hours. Once dry, your loofah soap dispenser is ready to use!
Creative Variations
Once you've mastered the basic technique, try these creative variations to personalize your soap dispenser:
Painted Loofah
Use natural dyes or acrylic paint to add color to your loofah before attaching. Ombre effects work beautifully — dip-dye one end for a gradient look.
Dried Flower Accent
Tuck small dried flowers (lavender, baby's breath, or pressed ferns) between the loofah and twine wrap for a cottage-core aesthetic.
Personalized Labels
Add a small kraft paper tag tied with twine. Perfect for labeling contents or adding as a gift tag when giving as a present.
LED Lights Inside
Skip the soap and add battery-operated fairy lights inside a clear jar. The loofah diffuses the light beautifully for ambient decor lighting.
Supplies to Get Started
Natural Dried Loofah Multi-Pack
Whole dried loofahs perfect for crafting. Unprocessed and chemical-free.
Mason Jar Soap Pump Lids
Rust-proof stainless steel pump lids that fit standard mason jars.
Care & Maintenance
Keep your loofah soap dispenser looking great with these care tips:
- Wipe down weekly — Use a damp cloth to remove soap drips from the loofah exterior
- Keep away from direct water — Position away from shower spray or sink splashes
- Refill carefully — Avoid overfilling to prevent soap from leaking onto the loofah
- Replace when worn — The loofah exterior will last 6-12 months with normal use
Troubleshooting
- Loofah peeling: Add more hot glue to secure edges
- Mold appearing: Ensure good ventilation; may need to replace loofah
- Soap not pumping: Check that tube reaches bottom; soap may be too thick