Etiquette of Personal Hygiene in Islam

Suyuti1 · Jun 07, 2025, 12:41 PM

Islam places great emphasis on cleanliness — both physical and spiritual. The Prophet ﷺ said:

"Cleanliness is half of faith (iman)."
— Sahih Muslim (223)

Maintaining personal hygiene is part of the fitrah (natural disposition) and includes trimming the moustache, shaving underarms, removing pubic hair, and clipping nails — acts recommended to be done within 40 days as narrated by Anas ibn Malik (RA):

"The Messenger of Allah ﷺ set a time limit for us... not to leave them for more than forty nights."
— Sahih Muslim (258)

Brushing teeth with a miswak or toothbrush is highly encouraged, especially before prayer. The Prophet ﷺ said:

"Were it not for the hardship on my Ummah, I would have ordered them to use the miswak for every prayer."
— Sahih al-Bukhari (887)

Hygiene also includes proper bathing (ghusl), especially after marital relations, menstruation, and on Fridays. The Qur'an commands:

"Indeed, Allah loves those who are constantly repentant and loves those who purify themselves."
— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:222)

The Sahaba were meticulous in their hygiene, understanding it as a form of ibadah (worship) and a reflection of inner piety.

Etiquette of Personal Hygiene in Islam

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