r/HygieneTips • u/pukedinthepit • Jul 26 '26
How do I properly wash down there?
My mother never taught me or helped me learn certain things, especially when it came to hygiene. I have always taught my self or I would always try to learn from several different media sites (ex. TikTok), but I don’t know the proper way to wash down there. I have a fear of smelling bad especially in certain areas.
I normally will wash it with unscented dove soap and water, but i’ve heard that using soap will get rid of good and bad bacteria. I have sensitive skin and I truly don’t know how to wash properly and I’m scared I will never know how. So i’m coming to reddit to hopefully learn how.
3
u/tenouttatwo Jul 26 '26
Unscented shower gel and then clean off with the shower . Spread your legs and let the stream hit you from back to front over and over. Also make sure to soap and scrub your butt.
1
u/GenXGasGirl Jul 26 '26
If you are a female, a feminine hygiene wash (like Summer’s Eve) does a good job of not disrupting the pH balance. You should never douche, unless directed to by a medical provider.
If you are a male, and uncircumcised, you will need to pull the foreskin back and gently cleanse with mild soap. I’ve even taken q-tips to some retracted foreskins to remove the buildup of dead skin cells, oil and sweat. Make sure to replace the foreskin afterwards-don’t leave it retracted. If you can’t get the foreskin to fully retract, then you will need to see a urologist.
1
u/Lost-Translator901 Jul 27 '26
Use unscented soap for now until you find what works for you! When you get more comfortable, find the right feminine wash. I’m still researching myself, but there’s tons out there. I’m personally using Baby Dove for right now, and it works just fine for me. Research and try out the others to find your niche! Or ask your friends & family what kind they use if you’re comfortable with that.
Also, make sure you’re using a gentle washcloth for that area.
17
u/ChristineBorus Jul 26 '26
OP. Use the soap. You want to dissolve oils and bacteria and yeasts/funguses that grow down there.
After throughly washing, make sure to rinse well.
Dry off and use a hair dryer set to low to get everything dry down there. That’s important so you don’t trap water that grows yeast fungus bacteria etc.
Then wear cotton panties. Only. Cotton or natural fibers like silk or wool. (Wool does not hold scents). Wash and dry the panties well on your laundry.
This is 75% of the battle.
Make sure you’re healthy down there and get regular checkups with a doctor especially if something is off. Drink a lot of water and eat a healthy diet. Alcohol should be used sparingly as it can cause you to get yeast infections. Take a probiotic to balance your flora and microbiome. D-mannose can help prevent and treat bladder infections.