How To Clean Your Vagina Properly And Safely

During menstruation, it's important to wash your vulva at least once a day using warm water. If you feel discomfort or notice odor due to sweat or period blood, you can gently rinse more often. Just make sure you're not using harsh soaps or scrubbing the area, as this can cause irritation. Stick to mild, fragrance-free cleansers if needed.

Vaginal odor can be influenced by many things including sweat, discharge, and diet. To manage it, maintain daily vulvar hygiene, stay well hydrated, and avoid using scented products like sprays or douches which can disrupt your natural balance. Wearing cotton underwear and changing it regularly also helps reduce odor.

Keeping your vaginal area fresh starts with breathable cotton underwear and avoiding synthetic, tight-fitting clothes. Wash the vulva (the external part) with plain water or a gentle, unscented cleanser once daily. Staying hydrated and eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and probiotics can also support freshness from within.

You don’t need to clean the inside of your vagina — it’s self-cleaning. But the vulva should be gently cleaned once a day with water or a mild cleanser. Overwashing or using perfumed products can actually do more harm than good by disrupting your natural pH balance.

Feminine wipes can be useful in a pinch, especially during periods or after workouts. However, it’s best to choose unscented and alcohol-free versions to reduce the risk of irritation. Avoid using them inside the vagina — they’re only for external use.

Good hygiene habits are key. Wash your vulva daily, wear clean and breathable underwear, and avoid perfumed products. A balanced diet, plenty of water, and probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or kefir can also support a healthy vaginal environment and reduce odor.

Douching can disrupt the vagina’s natural flora and pH, making you more prone to infections like bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections. The vagina is self-cleaning, and douching interferes with its ability to maintain that delicate balance. It’s best to avoid it altogether.

After sex, it’s a good idea to urinate and gently rinse your vulva with lukewarm water. This helps flush out any bacteria that might have entered the urethra or lingered externally. Avoid using harsh soaps or douches — a simple rinse is enough to stay clean and fresh.

Yes, poor hygiene can contribute to infections by allowing bacteria or yeast to thrive. Not changing sanitary products regularly, wearing damp underwear, or failing to clean the vulva daily can lead to irritation and imbalances in the vaginal flora, increasing infection risk.

Most pH-balanced washes are designed for the external vulva and are generally considered safe if they’re fragrance-free and dermatologically tested. However, they should never be used inside the vagina. Always check labels and consult your healthcare provider if you're unsure.

What you eat affects your entire body, including your vaginal health. Diets high in sugar can encourage yeast growth, while probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables support healthy bacteria. Staying hydrated also helps flush out toxins and keep things balanced.

Yes, tight clothes — especially those made from synthetic materials — can trap moisture and heat, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. Opt for looser-fitting garments when possible and stick to natural fabrics like cotton, especially for underwear.

Cotton is your best friend when it comes to underwear. It’s breathable, absorbs moisture, and reduces the risk of irritation and infections. Avoid synthetic materials like nylon or polyester, especially if you’re prone to infections or have sensitive skin.

Scented pads, tampons, or pantyliners might seem like a good idea, but they often contain chemicals that can irritate the vulva and disrupt your natural pH. This irritation can lead to infections, so it’s best to use unscented, hypoallergenic products whenever possible.