How to Clean Your Vulva Safely: A Simple Hygiene Guide for Everyday Care

Vulva hygiene is an important part of women’s health — but many popular practices do more harm than good. The key rule is simple: the vulva cleans itself, and all it needs is gentle washing. This guide provides a safe, medically accurate demonstration on how to clean your vulva without irritation, infections, or product damage.

First: Know the Difference — Vulva vs. Vagina

Many women are taught to clean the “vagina,” but the vagina (the internal canal) should never be washed or cleaned. The vulva, however, is the external area that includes:

• Labia majora (outer lips)
• Labia minora (inner lips)
• Clitoral hood
• Urethral opening
• Vaginal opening

Only the vulva needs cleaning — gently and externally.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Vulva Safely

1. Use warm water only.
   Stand in the shower or sit on a stool. Warm water is enough to remove sweat, discharge, and bacteria.
2. Use your hand — not a washcloth.
   Hands are gentle. Cloths or sponges can irritate sensitive skin.
3. Gently separate the labia.
   With clean hands, softly separate the outer and inner labia to allow water to flow between the folds.
4. Rinse the creases carefully.
   Let water run from front to back. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing.
5. Avoid soap inside the folds.
   If you must use soap, choose a mild, fragrance-free, pH-balanced cleanser and only apply it externally.
6. Rinse thoroughly.
   Make sure no soap residue remains — it can cause itching or burning.
7. Pat dry, don’t rub.
   Use a soft towel and pat gently to avoid irritation.

Things You Should Never Do

• Do not use perfumes, scented soaps, or feminine sprays. They disrupt pH and cause infections.
• No douching. It pushes bacteria upward and increases UTI and BV risk.
• No scrubbing or exfoliating. The skin is delicate — irritation can lead to swelling or pain.
• No internal cleaning. The vagina cleans itself naturally through discharge.
• Avoid talcum powder or deodorant sprays. These increase irritation and infection risk.

How Often Should You Clean Your Vulva?

Once a day is enough for most women. During menstruation, you may prefer twice daily showers, but avoid overwashing. After exercise or sweating, a simple rinse is enough.

Special Cases: When to Use Extra Care

• After sex: Gently rinse with warm water to reduce irritation and UTI risk.
• During your period: Change pads/tampons regularly and wash with water twice per day if comfortable.
• If you have sensitive skin: Avoid all soaps; water only is best.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical advice if you experience:

• Burning, itching, or swelling
• Strong or unusual smell
• Green, gray, or cottage-cheese-like discharge
• Pain during urination or sex
• Recurring rashes or bumps

These can indicate infections like BV, yeast infections, or skin conditions requiring treatment.

FAQ: Vulva Hygiene

1. Is it okay to use baby wipes?

Occasionally, yes — but choose fragrance-free wipes and avoid daily use. Water is still the safest option.

2. Should I clean after peeing?

No — wiping front to back is enough. You don’t need to wash every time.

3. Why does the vulva smell sometimes?

Some natural scent is normal. Strong odors may indicate infection and should be checked.

4. Can shaving affect hygiene?

Yes. Shaving can cause irritation; if you shave, moisturize with unscented products and avoid tight clothing after.

Key Takeaways

• The vulva needs gentle, external cleaning only — avoid internal washing.
• Warm water is usually enough; if using soap, choose fragrance-free and pH-balanced.
• Pat dry gently and avoid harsh products or scrubbing.
• Seek medical advice if irritation, odor, or unusual discharge appears.