Mexican Artisan

Ayate Washcloth

$12.00

Why We Love It

This handcrafted agave washcloth, known as an ayate, reminds us of our abuelita’s self-care routine. This artisanal washcloth is hand woven using sustainably-sourced agave fibers using ancestral techniques that have been around for centuries. It provides gentle exfoliation, promotes circulation, and renews skin. 

It works like a large pliable loofah and creates lots of lather. Ditch your plastic loofah for this ancient bathing accessory.

Más Info

  • Approximate size: 12” x 11.5” (Note: it shrinks when wet)
  • Agave fibers are naturally antimicrobial and mold repellent so your washcloth lasts longer than plastic loofahs
  • Reusable, washable and durable.
  • Lasts up to 6 months with proper care
  • Provides gentle exfoliation, removes dead skin cells, massages sore muscles, boosts circulation and encourages lymphatic drainage

Ayate is a term used to describe the indigenous tradition of woven textiles and nets made from the agave plant. Learn more about the ayate tradition here.

One-of-a-kind and supports fair pay practices for Mexican artisans. Due to the handmade nature, sizes and hues may vary slightly from the product image.

HANDCRAFTED • ARTISANAL • PLASTIC-FREE • BIODEGRADABLE • COMPOSTABLE • ZERO-WASTE • FAIR TRADE

These ayates are made by an indigenous-owned cooperative dedicated to the sustainable and artisanal production of brushes and sponges from vegetable fibers, such as agave henequén, agave lechuguilla, and ixtle de maguey. For over 25 years, the community has produced personal and home care products while employing local artisans, mostly women.

The products are made using 100% natural fibers obtained from different parts of Mexico. Each item is handmade by artisans, carvers, and weavers, creating a bond of a sustainable economy. They also take great care to source raw materials sustainably: the wood is upcycled from furniture makers’ scraps, and fibers are harvested sustainably according to ancestral traditions that have allowed agave plants to flourish for millennia.

Soak your ayate washcloth in hot water for 5-10 minutes, until it feels soft and pliable. It will shrink and soften when it comes in contact with water.

Allow to fully dry between uses. We recommend hang drying it in a cool, non-moist area. Do not store in a sealed container if it is wet or moist.

You can hand wash your ayate with gentle soap, rinse well and hang dry. Allow it to fully dry before next use. Letting it dry in the sun also helps kill germs and bacteria.

Pair with your favorite soap bar for a zero-waste bathing experience.

100% plant-based using natural Ixtle fibers.

Customer Reviews

Based on 2 reviews
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C
Claudia Delgado
Plastic free!

I love this product because it’s not plastic and reusable. I feel clean after I shower !

L
Leanne
Skin has improved!

I wasn't sure what to expect from this but I absolutely love it! It's not too rough and my bumpy arm skin is smoother and the eczema on my knees has improved! I will be purchasing again.