Personal Hygiene Basics

Personal hygiene is about keeping your body clean and healthy. Good personal hygiene can make you less likely to become sick. It also helps you look and feel your best.

Wash your hands often

• Always wash them after you use the toilet and before you eat or handle food. Wash more often if you are sick or are around a sick person.

• When you wash, use plenty of soap and work up a good lather. Be sure to clean under your nails and between your fingers. Rinse well.

Keep your body clean

• Take a shower or tub bath at least 2 to 3 times a week. Shampoo your hair every time you bathe.

• Clean your genitals, armpits, and skin folds every day.

• Use moisturizing soap and water. Rinse and dry well.

• Don’t put anything inside your ears. Wash behind your ears every time you bathe.

Care for your mouth

• Brush your teeth after each meal. Use a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush the front, back, and top of each tooth.

• Floss at least once a day. Use about 18 inches of dental floss each time. Floss between all teeth.

• See your dentist every 6 months (or as often as you’re told) for a dental checkup.

Care for your nails

• If you have diabetes or bad circulation (vascular disease), check with your healthcare provider about proper nail care.

• Keep your nails trimmed and filed. Clean underneath them daily.

• Cut toenails straight across. Trim them to just about the tip of your toe. Don’t cut the corners.

• If you are unable to care for your own nails, ask others for help.