PDF download Download Article
Wash your face, bum, and other body parts thoroughly
PDF download Download Article

Nothing feels better than a full body cleanse, especially after a long day or sweaty workout. In this article, we’ll walk you through the ultimate deep cleaning and personal hygiene routine so you can remove built-up dirt and grime from your body. We also interviewed board-certified dermatologist Asmi Sanghvi, DO and professional hair stylist Jenny Tran for tips on how to keep your skin and hair squeaky clean.

Keeping Your Body Clean: At a Glance

Shower or bathe with warm water and a fragrance-free body cleanser. Focus on washing your armpits, feet, groan, and the folds and pits of your body. To get rid of dirt from the skin, exfoliate your body with a body brush, sponge, loofah, or scrub, and apply moisturizer immediately afterwards.

Section 1 of 8:

Deep Cleaning Your Hair & Body

PDF download Download Article
  1. While most people shower or bathe daily, studies show that it isn’t necessary unless you’re particularly grimy or sweaty. [1] Overcleaning your body can lead to skin issues, such as dryness, irritation, and cracking, and the fragrances and additives in bath products can cause allergic reactions. Instead, stick to showering or bathing 3 to 4 times a week to maintain the natural oils and “good” bacteria on your skin.
    • Some people need to shower more than others. If you engage in sweaty workouts or are regularly exposed to allergens and toxins outdoors, you may need to shower every day. If you’ve spent all day indoors, you can probably skip the shower and take one the next day. Everyone's body is different. [2]
  2. Instead of a harsh soap, choose a gentle skin cleanser that doesn’t have any dye, fragrances, or preservatives. [3] Your cleanser should remove dirt and grime, without stripping the skin of its natural oils. If you want a squeaky clean feeling after showering, opt for a traditional bar soap or shower gel with moisturizing ingredients. [4]
    • Cleansing helps rinse away dead skin cells, bacteria, and oils that cause body odor.
    • Fragrance draws moisture out of the skin, so avoid scented soaps and body washes. Even if your skin isn’t easily irritated, look for products that are labeled “gentle” or “for sensitive skin.” [5]
    Advertisement
  3. When your dead skin cells come into contact with sweat, it can produce an unpleasant body odor. [6] Consider using a body brush , sponge , loofah , or body scrub to exfoliate your skin and get a deep clean. If you’re using a scrub, apply the product using small, circular motions for about 30 seconds, then rinse off with lukewarm water. If you’re using a brush, scrub, or loofah, use short light strokes. [7]
    • If you use a sponge or loofah, be sure to clean it regularly to avoid bacteria and mold growth. You can soak it in a diluted bleach solution for 5 minutes each week and store it in a dry place.
    • Store-bought exfoliators usually have ingredients like sugar, sea salt, or walnut shell, but you can always make your own face or body scrub at home. There are lots of different recipes online, but a basic version involves mixing two tablespoons of sugar with enough olive oil and honey to get the consistency of toothpaste.
  4. These are places that are bacteria-prone and are likely to smell. [8] You should also target the folds and pits of your body, where sweat can get trapped in the layers of the skin. This includes the area behind your ears, under your chin and jawline, behind your knees, and between your toes. Be sure to rub everywhere twice, once while washing with cleanser and a second time when rinsing with clean water.
    • If you’re concerned about smelling on days you don’t shower, gently clean your armpits and genitals with a clean washcloth to keep the odor away. [9]
  5. 5
    Use a gentle, unscented soap to wash your butt and genitals. Apply a small amount of soap to your hands, spread your buttocks apart, and clean the outer buttocks area first. Gently wash the area around the anus, then rinse with warm water. [10] For a deeper clean, use a handheld shower head to target the area and rinse it thoroughly.
    • Washing your penis : Lather a mild, unscented soap in your hands and apply it to your testicles, the base and shaft of your penis, and under the head of your penis. Rinse well to ensure there’s no soapy residue. If you’re uncircumcised, gently pull back the foreskin, clean underneath, then replace it after rinsing it thoroughly. [11]
    • Washing your vagina : Gently spread your outer labia and clean the folds around your clitoris, making sure to wash around the hood of your clitoris and the area outside the entrance to your vagina. You can use a gentle, unscented soap, but warm water works just fine. Just make sure you don’t get any soap inside your vagina, since that can be drying and irritating. [12]
  6. While using hot water can dissolve dirt and oil more easily than cold water, it can also strip your skin and cause dryness, irritation, and itchiness. Showering with warm water is good enough to keep your body fresh and clean. [13] So, stick to a warm shower or bath to deep clean your body, and try to keep it around 10 minutes or less. [14]
    • Lukewarm water is between 98º and 105º F (36.7 to 40.6º C). Temperatures between 130º and 140º F (54.4 to 60º C) kill most harmful bacteria, but it can increase the risk of scalding. [15]
    • Consider ending your shower by rinsing your body with cold water for one to two minutes. This closes your pores, which can make your skin look healthier, plus improve your circulation and reduce inflammation. [16]
  7. Wet your hair thoroughly and apply about a quarter-sized amount of shampoo into your palm. Rub your hands through your hair, lathering the shampoo and massaging it into your scalp for 1 to 2 minutes. [17] Make sure to work the shampoo into the area behind your ears since oils can build up there. Then, make sure to lather it up at the back of the head and wash the tips of your hair.
    • Rinse the shampoo out thoroughly, running your fingers through the stands as you go. If your hair is still slippery, that means the shampoo isn't out, and your hair will get greasy over the next 24 hours. Repeat this process with a conditioner to strengthen your hair. Rinse it out completely.
    • “Everyone's hair type needs a different level of moisture,” says Tran. “The more moisture you need, the longer you should go between shampooing. Eventually, your body will recognize that it no longer needs to produce an excessive amount of oil to hydrate your scalp.”
    EXPERT TIP

    Patrick Evan

    Professional Hair Stylist
    Patrick Evan is the Owner of Patrick Evan Salon, a hair salon in San Francisco, California. He has been a hairstylist for over 25 years and is a Thermal Reconditioning Specialist, dedicated to transforming difficult curls and waves into sleek, straight hair. Patrick Evan Salon was rated the Best Hair Salon in San Francisco by Allure magazine, and Patrick's work has been featured in Woman’s Day, The Examiner, and 7x7.
    Patrick Evan
    Professional Hair Stylist

    Wash your hair every other day or every third day. Most people do not need to wash [their hair] every day. Every other day or every third day is what we recommend, especially since the natural oil from your scalp protects your hair.

  8. Immediately after bathing or showering, pat your skin dry, then rub a fragrance-free moisturizer all over your body. This helps lock moisture in the skin and maintain a healthy skin barrier. [18]
    • Some good brands for moisturizer include: Cerave, Cetaphil, and Aveeno. [19]
    • Even if you have oily skin, you need to moisturize daily to keep your skin hydrated.
    • Identify problem areas, like the heels of your feet, your elbows, and your knees, and apply moisturizer to those areas every night before bed. This can help soften your skin and improve its overall health.
  9. Advertisement
Section 2 of 8:

Deep Cleansing Your Face

PDF download Download Article
  1. 1
    Wash your face with a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser. To remove any impurities and oils from your face, wet your face with lukewarm water and apply an alcohol-free cleanser over your face and neck. Gently massage the cleanser into your skin using circular motions, and then rinse and pat dry. [20]
    • Look for cleansers that say “gentle” or “moisturizing” on the label to avoid drying out your skin. [21]
    • If you’re wearing heavy makeup or sunscreen, double cleanse with a cleansing balm before applying your cleanser. This removes excess oil and sebum from your skin for a deeper clean. [22]
  2. 2
    Steam your face to remove any remaining dead skin cells. Steaming opens up your pores and loosens oil and sebum, making your cleansing more effective. Just fill a pot with one to two cups of water and bring it to a boil. Pour the steaming water into a glass or ceramic bowl, then lean over the bowl and drape a towel over your head and the bowl. Close your eyes and remain about a foot away from the bowl to avoid a steam burn. [23]
  3. Facial treatments, like packs or masks, can be used regularly to cleanse your face. Choose a mask based on your skin type and skin needs. If you have oily skin, for example, pick a mask with salicylic acid. If you have dry skin, stick to a mask with hyaluronic acid. [24] Follow the instructions on your product’s packaging to see how long you should leave it on. Generally, you can leave most face masks on for 10 to 20 minutes before rinsing with warm water.
    • You can also make a face mask at home with ingredients like honey, lemon, milk, yogurt, aloe vera, papaya, and coffee.
    • According to Dr. Sanghvi, you can “purify the skin” with a DIY face mask. Just combine “one tablespoon of powdered clay with two tablespoons of water, then mix in ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder.”
  4. 4
    Use a dime- to nickel-sized amount of moisturizer all over your face. As the final step in your skincare routine, apply small dots of the moisturizer on areas like your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Gently rub the moisturizer into your skin using circular motions in an upward and outward direction. You can gently massage your skin to help the moisturizer sink in—just be extra careful around your eye area since the skin is thinner. [25]
  5. Advertisement
Section 3 of 8:

Practicing Good Dental Hygiene

PDF download Download Article
  1. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day. Brush your teeth for at least two minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste . Be sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the backs, sides, and gum lines. Floss daily to get rid of food particles and plaque in between your teeth, and use an antibacterial mouthwash after brushing and flossing. [27]
    • Visit your dentist every 6 months for a regular checkup and cleaning, and avoid smoking and other tobacco products.
Section 4 of 8:

Practicing Good Nail Hygiene

PDF download Download Article
  1. Trim your nails often to keep them short and clean. To care for your nails , cut your nails straight across with sharp nail scissors or clippers . Scrub under your nails with soap and water (or a nail brush ) every time you wash your hands to remove built-up dirt and grime. Do not bite or chew your nails, and avoid cutting your cuticles, since they serve as barriers to prevent infection. [28]
    • If your toenails are difficult to cut, soak your feet in warm salt water for 5 to 10 minutes to soften them before trimming. [29]
  2. Advertisement
Section 5 of 8:

Maintaining Good Menstrual Hygiene

PDF download Download Article
  1. Change your pad or tampon at least every 4 to 8 hours. Wash your hands before and after using a menstrual product, and discard used menstrual products by wrapping them with toilet paper and tossing them in a trash can. Depending on your flow, you should change your pad or tampon when it feels full or uncomfortable. Wash the outside of your vagina and bottom every day on your period to stay clean and smell fresh . [30]
    • Never leave a tampon in for more than 8 hours at a time. [31]
    • If you’re using a menstrual cup, empty, wash, and reinsert it at least 2 times per day.
Section 6 of 8:

Staying Clean From the Inside Out

PDF download Download Article
  1. Dead skin cells and bacteria can accumulate on your towels, so it’s important to change your towels often. Wash your towels in cold water on a delicate cycle, and add a tiny bit of bleach if your towel smells funky. [32]
    • Damp towels are a breeding ground for bacteria, so hang your towels on a towel rack so it dries completely.
  2. Deodorants repel the bacteria that causes odor, while antiperspirants reduce how much you sweat. Choose an underarm product that’s labeled “antiperspirant,” and apply it after your shower or bath. [33]
    • Alternatively, use a mineral deodorant if you prefer natural ingredients or have sensitive skin.
    • If over-the-counter products don’t help, your healthcare provider can prescribe a strong antiperspirant. [34]
  3. Your body wash, shampoo, conditioner, facial cleanser, deodorant, makeup, and hairspray can affect your overall health and well-being. [35] When you apply products that are full of toxins and harsh chemicals, it can cause serious health issues, such as congenital disabilities and reproductive harm. [36] So, consider making your own products with our DIY recipes:
  4. It's important to stay hydrated and eat healthy if you want to be clean from the inside out. Your diet has a direct impact on the health of your skin and your hair, meaning that good nutrition is part of a good cleaning regimen. [37]
    • When you're on a diet to lose weight, you can miss out on important nutrients, so don't starve yourself or completely eliminate carbs and fats.
    • Try increasing the number of antioxidants in your diet. Drink green tea and eat more berries, dark chocolate, beans, pecans, spinach, and artichokes. [38]
  5. Advertisement
Section 7 of 8:

What is personal hygiene?

PDF download Download Article
  1. This includes cleaning your body every day, washing your hands after using the toilet, brushing your teeth, grooming your nails, and covering your coughs and sneezes. [39] Good personal hygiene can protect you from illness, prevent you from spreading diseases to other people, and help you feel good about your appearance. [40]
Section 8 of 8:

Effects of Poor Personal Hygiene

PDF download Download Article
  1. Poor hygiene can cause health problems, like scabies and staph infections. While poor personal hygiene can result in minor side effects, such as body odor and greasy hair, it can also cause more serious sickness and disease. Some conditions that can develop from poor hygiene include: [41]
    • Scabies
    • Tooth decay
    • Staph infections
    • Tinea or athlete's foot
    • Head lice and pubic lice
    • Threadworms and other worms
    • COVID-19 and other infectious diseases
    • Respiratory infections, including colds and flu
    • Trachoma (an eye infection which can lead to blindness)
  2. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    What can I do if I can't reach my back to wash the dirt off?
    Community Answer
    Get a back scrubber. It is usually a loofa or soft brush attached to a long stick. Lather the loofa or brush end up with soap, then use it to scrub your back.
  • Question
    How do I clean dirt from a difficult place on my back?
    Community Answer
    Get a back scrubber. This item is a loofah or soft sponge attached to a long stick.
  • Question
    How do I make my skin look healthier?
    Community Answer
    Start by applying a good moisturizer after you shower. Within a few weeks, your skin should look better and healthier. You could also try exfoliating once or twice a week.
See more answers
Ask a Question
      Advertisement

      Reader Videos

      Submit a Video Tip!

      Share a quick video tip and help bring articles to life with your friendly advice. Your insights could make a real difference and help millions of people!

      Submit a Video

      Tips

      • Wash your body from top to bottom to allow all the soap to rinse off. Start by washing your hair, then thoroughly rinse the soap off before moving on to your face and body.
      • Using a fan or blower on cool to circulate air around your body is a great way to dry and cool your body. If you can do this out of the steamy hot room, even better!
      • It's a good idea to use warm water to clean your body, but try using cold water to wash your hair. Tran recommends “rinsing [your hair] with warm water to open up the hair cuticle…then rinsing with cool water to seal in hydration.”
      Show More Tips

      Tips from our Readers

      The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
      • Soaps which consist of natural and ayurvedic substances like neem, turmeric, lemon, etc, will help clear the bacteria and keep your skin fresh longer.
      • If you don’t have dry skin, try wiping down your neck, armpits, and feet with rubbing alcohol to help kill the bacteria growing there.
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      Warnings

      Advertisement
      1. https://sautiplus.org/opinions/are-you-sure-you-are-cleaning-your-butt-crack-the-right-way/
      2. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15666-penis-health
      3. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-keep-your-vagina-happy-healthy
      4. https://goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/whats-best-temperature-water-shower-kill-bacteria
      5. https://health.unl.edu/you-asked-we-answered-showering-every-day-bad-you-and-other-hygiene-questions/
      6. https://goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/whats-best-temperature-water-shower-kill-bacteria
      7. https://www.ctnaturalhealth.com/end-showers-cold-water/
      8. https://www.aad.org/public/skin-hair-nails/hair-care/tips-for-healthy-hair
      9. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-often-do-you-really-need-to-take-a-shower
      10. https://health.unl.edu/you-asked-we-answered-showering-every-day-bad-you-and-other-hygiene-questions/
      11. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/routine/healthier-looking-skin
      12. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/care/winter-skin-survival-kit
      13. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/double-cleansing-explained
      14. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/is-steaming-your-face-good-for-your-skin
      15. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/do-face-masks-actually-work-or-are-they-just-a-fad
      16. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/skin-care/moisturizer
      17. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/dry-skin-self-care
      18. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/16914-oral-hygiene
      19. https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/about/nail-hygiene.html
      20. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/nail-care-secrets/basics/healthy-nail-tips
      21. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/your-changing-body-puberty-in-girls
      22. https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/about/menstrual-hygiene.html
      23. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-often-should-you-wash-your-germ-magnet-of-a-bath-towel
      24. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17865-body-odor
      25. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/whats-that-smell-common-and-less-common-causes-of-body-odor
      26. https://natrue.org/3-reasons-to-switch-to-natural-and-organic-cosmetics/
      27. https://www.ewg.org/the-toxic-twelve-chemicals-and-contaminants-in-cosmetics
      28. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/skin-care/art-20048237
      29. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/add-antioxidants-to-your-diet/art-20546814
      30. https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/about/index.html
      31. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/personal-hygiene
      32. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/personal-hygiene
      33. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/routine/safely-exfoliate-at-home
      34. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/prevent-skin-problems/test-skin-care-products

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To deep clean your body, bathe or shower at least 3-4 times a week and wash your skin with gentle soap and warm water. Use a loofah, washcloth, or gentle exfoliating scrub to remove dead skin and deep-set dirt. When cleaning up, pay special attention to parts of your body where dirt and sweat tend to build up, such as your underarms, the areas behind your ears, and between your toes. To open up the pores on your face and release excess oils and dirt, steam your face with a hot towel before you shower. You might also find it helpful to use facial masks a few times a week to deeply clean and moisturize your skin. Don’t forget to shampoo your hair, too. Depending on your hair and scalp type, you may need to wash your hair anywhere from every day to 3-4 times a week. After you bathe or shower, thoroughly pat yourself dry with a clean, dry towel since lingering moisture could irritate your skin. To keep your skin healthy, always moisturize after you wash it. Remember to keep your body clean both inside and out—drink plenty of water and eat healthy, minimally processed foods, which will also help keep your skin, hair, and nails looking their best. For more tips on deep cleaning your body, including steaming your face, keep reading!

      Did this summary help you?
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 1,409,559 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Monica Isaacson

        Sep 1, 2017

        "I just spent the day with my grandchildren and was helping my 11-year-old granddaughter with the "odor" ..." more
        Rated this article:
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement