Personal Hygiene Etiquette: 10 Factors For A Good Hygiene
Who is this micro-class for
* Everyone
What you’ll learn
* How to maintain good personal hygiene
* Daily personal hygiene routine
Resources
* Less than 8 minutes to complete
About this micro-class
Personal hygiene etiquette is the set of factors to include into our daily routine to maintain good personal hygiene, which is essential for health, self-esteem, and social interactions.
1. Regular bathing or showering
Regular bathing or showering helps remove dirt, sweat, bacteria, and dead skin cells from the body. It also helps prevent body odor and skin infections.
Shower or bathe at least once a day, preferably in the morning. Use soap and water to clean your entire body, paying attention to areas like the armpits, groin, and feet. Do not neglect any areas, such as your back, legs, and ears.
2. Hand washing
Proper hand hygiene is crucial for preventing the spread of germs and diseases. Hands are a common vector for transmitting infections.
Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after using the restroom, and after coughing or sneezing.
3. Nail care
Well-maintained nails reduce the risk of harboring bacteria and dirt. They also prevent ingrown nails and promote an overall polished look.
Keep your fingernails and toenails clean and trimmed. Avoid biting your nails, and use daily a nail brush to clean underneath them.
4. Oral hygiene
Good oral hygiene prevents dental problems like cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. It also contributes to overall health by reducing the risk of systemic diseases.
Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Use enough toothpaste and brush for at least 2 or 3 minutes every time. Use mouthwash to freshen your breath. Floss daily.
Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings, at least once every 6 or 9 months.
5. Hair care
Proper hair care helps prevent dandruff, lice, and fungal infections of the scalp. It also contributes to a neat and tidy appearance.
Wash your hair regularly with a suitable shampoo and abundant water, at least once every 2 days. Dry your hair with a towel and a hair dryer.
For a neat look, comb your hair every morning and get your hair trimmed regularly, ideally once a month.
6. Personal grooming
Grooming practices such as shaving, trimming facial hair, and maintaining personal grooming routines contribute to a neat and polished appearance.
Follow grooming routines that suit your personal style and preferences. Keep facial hair well-trimmed and maintain a clean appearance. Trim any hair that may overgrow in your ears and nose, or around your eyebrows.
7. Proper toilet hygiene
Maintaining proper toilet hygiene prevents the spread of fecal-borne diseases and discomfort.
Every time after using the toilet, wipe thoroughly from front to back (for females), and wash your hands with soap and water.
8. Foot care
Proper foot care prevents conditions like athlete’s foot, calluses, and unpleasant foot odors. It also contributes to comfort and mobility.
Wash and dry your feet daily, paying attention to the spaces between toes. Trim your toenails straight across to prevent ingrown nails. Wear clean socks and well-fitting shoes.
9. Apply body deodorant or antiperspirant
Deodorants and antiperspirants help control body odor and reduce sweating, promoting a fresh and comfortable feeling.
Apply deodorant or antiperspirant daily to your armpits and breast. Apply them after washing such areas, such as after showering or bathing. You can use perfume too, but perfume does not substitute a deodorant.
Do not apply excessive deodorant or perfume, as it may be annoying to others. Do not apply deodorant or perfume to any body part without washing it first.
10. Clean clothing
Wearing clean clothes helps prevent body odors and the transfer of dirt and bacteria. It also contributes to a positive personal image.
Change your clothes daily, especially undergarments, and wash them regularly. Pay attention to special care instructions for delicate fabrics.
Personal hygiene etiquette mistakes
The worst personal hygiene etiquette mistakes are:
- Not having a daily personal hygiene routine.
- Going to work or any social setting with bad personal hygiene.
Additional resources & links
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- Etiquette references: body language etiquette, professional presence rules, workplace bathroom etiquette
- Interesting reads and sources: Oral health mayoclinic.org