Review (4/5): Tough sponges
Not sure what kind of processing they undergo, but these are really tough sponges. Before first use cover them with boiling water and leave to soak for a couple of hours at least. You might also want to crumple them a bit.
There is another review which says "do not soften with water nor do they get very soapy" and this is true. Described manipulations will make them bit softer, but they won't satisfy someone with a soft skin anyway.