How to Have Good Personal & Feminine Hygiene: A Complete Checklist for Girls

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Feminine hygiene and self care tips that every girl should know
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Having a good hygiene routine can help prevent infections and boost your overall self-esteem. It’s especially important to practice good hygiene habits if you’re a teen or tween because your body is going through changes, which can cause you to sweat and smell more. In this article, we’re providing the best personal hygiene tips for girls, including skin, hair, body, feminine, and menstrual hygiene tips. We also spoke with a board-certified women’s health doctor, as well as some nail and hair specialists, for tips on how to look and feel your best.

Personal Hygiene Checklist for Girls

  1. Wash the outside of your vagina (vulva) with mild, unscented soap and water.
  2. Change your underwear daily and wear breathable clothing to prevent odor.
  3. Shower or bathe every day, paying extra attention to your armpits, feet, and groin.
  4. Cleanse your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser and follow up with moisturizer.
  5. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and exercise daily.
  6. If you’re on your period, change your pad or tampon every 4 to 8 hours.
  7. If you’re sexually active, always use protection and urinate after sex.


Section 1 of 5:

Vaginal Hygiene

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  1. Step 1 Wash the outside of your vagina with mild, unscented soap and water.
    Gently spread your outer labia (the large, fleshy pads or “lips” on the outside of your vulva) and wipe around the skin folds inside, making sure to wash around the hood of your clitoris and the area outside the entrance to your vagina. Rinse thoroughly with warm water, then let the area dry naturally or pat it dry with a clean towel.[1]
    • Washing your vulva once a day is enough. Overwashing can disrupt the healthy bacteria in your vagina and cause symptoms, such as dryness, itching, and irritation.[2]
    • “The vagina is a self-cleaning organ,” says board-certified urogynecologist Cindy Basinski, MD.[3] That means you shouldn’t use scented soap or douches, or get soap inside your vagina—it can alter your vagina’s natural pH balance, possibly leading to a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis.[4]
    • Basinski also agrees that “it’s best to stay away from scented wipes and deodorant sprays, which can cause irritation and wash away good bacteria.” Putting products inside your vagina “can cause contact dermatitis or a rash type situation.”[5]
  2. Step 2 Change your underwear daily to prevent odor and bacteria.
    Wearing dirty underwear increases the risk of bacterial overgrowth, which may cause irritation, itchiness, and irregular discharge. Change your underwear if you get damp or sweaty, and at least once a day for optimal hygiene.[6]
    • Wash your underwear with a mild, unscented detergent, and separate them from other clothing.[7] You can also use an extra rinse cycle to make sure all the detergent is rinsed out.
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  3. Step 3 Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing to keep your vulva cool and dry.
    According to board-certified urogynecologist Cindy Basinski, MD, “synthetic materials, like nylon and polyester, tend to hold moisture against your genital area, creating an environment that’s good for harmful bacteria and yeast.”[8] Wear breathable cotton underwear and clothing to prevent irritation, reduce moisture, and maintain good vaginal health.
    • Try sleeping without underwear or wearing loose-fitting pajama bottoms at night.[9]
    • Avoid wearing thongs or tight-fitting leggings or pants, since friction can cause microtears in the skin that trap bacteria.[10]
  4. Step 4 Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom.
    Wiping from back to front can move bacteria from your anal area into your vagina or urethra, putting you at greater risk of developing a urinary tract infection.[11] Always wipe from front to back, from the vagina to the anus.[12]
    • Avoid using scented products, such as scented toilet paper, since these can irritate your vulva and vagina.[13] Stick to plain white paper.
  5. Step 5 Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
    Eating a diet filled with lean protein, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables is one of the best ways to maintain a healthy vagina. Foods that contain prebiotics and probiotics can also fuel your vagina’s natural immune defense system with good bacteria.[14]
    • Some other vagina-friendly foods include: yogurt, sauerkraut, pickles, miso, legumes, tofu, and edamame.[15]
  6. Step 6 Exercise regularly to release toxins and boost your immune system.
    Exercise helps to improve circulation and reduce stress, which is incredibly beneficial for your vaginal health. Just be sure to wear cotton underwear while you workout, wash your body immediately after, and change into clean, dry clothes.[16]
  7. Step 7 If you’re sexually active, use protection and always urinate after sex.
    You can reduce your risk of getting a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or sexually transmitted disease (STD) by using condoms every time.[17] It’s also recommended to urinate within 30 minutes after having sex to help rinse away bacteria, sweat, and other bodily fluids that might contribute to bacterial or yeast infections.[18]
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Section 2 of 5:

Menstrual Hygiene

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  1. Step 1 Change your pad or tampon at least every 4 to 8 hours.
    Wash your hands before and after using a menstrual product, and discard used menstrual products by wrapping them with toilet paper and tossing them in a trash can. Depending on your flow, you should change your pad or tampon when it feels full or uncomfortable, or at least every 4 to 8 hours. Wash the outside of your vagina and bottom every day on your period to stay clean and smell fresh.[19]
    • If you’re using a menstrual cup, empty, wash, and reinsert it at least 2 times per day.
    • Never leave a tampon in for more than 8 hours at a time. Doing so may cause toxic shock syndrome, which can be deadly.[20]
    • Don't be embarrassed if you accidentally bleed into your underwear or on your sheets. This happens to most women at some point. Just rinse the fabric with cold water and immediately put it in the washing machine.
  2. Step 2 Shower regularly to prevent odor and lower the risk of infection.
    How often you should shower depends on your menstrual flow and comfort level, but most people prefer to wash more than once a day if their flow is heavy. Shower as usual and rinse your vagina with warm water, and pat yourself dry with a clean towel (or use toilet paper for your vagina). Then, use a fresh pad, tampon, or cup before getting dressed.[21]
    • You can wear a tampon or cup in the shower, but be sure to change it afterwards.[22]
    • If you're bleeding heavily, avoid taking a bath. The running water in a shower will wash blood away better than still bath water.
    • Don’t forget to rinse out any residue from the shower when you're done to be respectful toward the people who shower after you.
  3. Step 3 Keep track of your period to help you prepare for bleeding.
    The best way to avoid accidentally bleeding into your underwear or being caught without tampons when you need them is to know generally when to expect your period. There are many period tracking apps, like Flo and Clue, but you can also use a journal, diary, or period calendar. Write down the first day of your period, and keep track over several months.
    • If you have an irregular cycle, talk to your parent, gynecologist, or primary healthcare provider for advice and possible treatment.
    • The average menstrual cycle is 28 days long, but it varies from person to person.[23] Count from the first day of your period one month to the first day of your period the next month. If you take the average over 3 months, you'll probably have a good idea how long your cycle is.
    • For example, if it's 29 days one month, 30 days the next month, and 28 days the third month, add all these together and divide by 3 months—your average cycle is 29 days long. However, keep in mind that your period can vary a lot while you are a teen and it may range from 21 to 45 days.[24]
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Section 3 of 5:

Hair, Body & Facial Hygiene

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  1. Step 1 Wash your body...
    Wash your body every day with a fragrance-free body cleanser. Focus on washing your armpits, feet, and groin—these are places that are bacteria-prone and are likely to smell. You should also target the folds and pits of your body, where sweat can get trapped in the layers of the skin. This includes the area behind your ears, under your chin and jawline, behind your knees, and between your toes. Be sure to rub everywhere twice, once while washing with cleanser and a second time when rinsing with clean water.[25]
    • Teens and tweens should shower daily once they hit puberty, since hormonal changes can lead to increased sweat and body odor. They should also shower after exercising or sweating to keep their skin clean.[26]
    • Do not use soap to clean your vagina—this will disturb your natural pH balance down there. Clean around your inner thighs and around your vulva using mild, unscented soap.[27] Your vagina is good at cleaning itself with natural discharge (the clear fluid that comes from your vagina).[28]
  2. Step 2 Wash your face twice a day and apply moisturizer right after.
    To remove any impurities and oils from your face, wet your face with lukewarm water and apply an alcohol-free cleanser over your face and neck. Gently massage the cleanser into your skin using circular motions, and rinse and pat dry. Finish off by applying small dots of moisturizer on your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin, before gently rubbing it in using circular motions.[29]
    • Look for cleansers that say “gentle” or “moisturizing” on the label to avoid drying out your skin.[30]
    • If you have oily or combination skin, apply a nickel-sized amount of a water-based moisturizer on your skin. If you have dry skin, apply a dime-sized dollop of moisturizing cream or ointment.[31]
    • If you have pimples, wash your face with a mild cleanser, then apply a spot treatment or pimple patch before applying moisturizer. If you have acne that won’t go away within 6 to 8 weeks of using an over-the-counter treatment, visit a dermatologist for help.[32]
  3. Step 3 Shampoo and condition your hair 2 to 4 times per week.
    Wet your hair thoroughly and apply about a quarter-sized amount of shampoo into your palm. Rub your hands through your hair, lathering the shampoo and massaging it into your scalp for 1 to 2 minutes.[33] Make sure to work the shampoo into the area behind your ears since oils can build up there. Then, make sure to lather it up at the back of the head and wash the tips of your hair.
    • Rinse the shampoo out thoroughly, running your fingers through the stands as you go. If your hair is still slippery, that means the shampoo isn't out, and your hair will get greasy over the next 24 hours. Repeat this process with a conditioner to strengthen your hair. Rinse it out completely.
    • “Everyone's hair type needs a different level of moisture,” says professional hair stylist Jenny Tran. “The more moisture you need, the longer you should go between shampooing. Eventually, your body will recognize that it no longer needs to produce an excessive amount of oil to hydrate your scalp.”[34]
  4. Step 4 Shave your body hair with a clean razor, if you like.
    Whether you want to shave your legs, underarms, and vulva is completely up to you. Long hair in your armpits and groin might trap moisture and odors, but showering regularly and keeping the area clean and dry should solve that. If you do shave, do it safely and hygienically by using a clean, new, and sharp razor blade every time.[35]
    • Use plenty of shaving cream or gel (not just regular soap). Never dry shave!
    • Take your time and go slowly. Ask your mom, aunt, or older sibling for help or advice.
    • Avoid shaving your face. Pluck stray hairs with tweezers or try a hair removal cream that is formulated for facial hair.
  5. Step 5 Remove excess pubic hair with a razor or trimmer.
    Soak the pubic area in a warm tub or shower for 5 minutes to soften the hair and skin, and gently pull the skin taut to ensure even trimming. If you decide to shave, use a safety razor that has moisture strips. If you decide to trim, use a dedicated pubic hair trimmer. Always shave/trim in the direction of hair growth to prevent ingrown hairs. Rinse the area with warm water, then pat dry.[36]
    • Keep in mind that shaving your pubic hair might make the skin in that area itchy, irritated, or prone to ingrown hairs and folliculitis (infection of the hair follicle).[37]
    • Remember, it’s up to you to decide how you want to groom down there. You can shave your “bikini area” on your inner thighs and leave pubic hair natural, keep your pubic hair (carefully) trimmed with scissors, or stay completely natural. Just be sure to wash well in the shower.
  6. Step 6 Wear clean clothes and wash your clothes after sweating.
    You don't necessarily have to wash your clothes every time you wear them, but always wear clothes without stains, wrinkles, and smells on them. If you get your clothes dirty or sweat in them, wash them before wearing them again. Change your socks as needed for comfort and to avoid bad smells. This may be more than once a day, or it might be less if you only wore them for a few hours around the house without shoes.[38]
  7. Step 7 Keep your feet dry and wear socks with closed-toed shoes.
    It's normal for your feet and shoes to start smelling, but you can keep this under control by making sure your feet are dry before putting on socks and shoes. Alternate which shoes you wear, and let your shoes air out overnight in a ventilated space (and not at the bottom of your closet).[39] Choose cotton socks instead of synthetic fibers, and always wear socks with closed-toed shoes.[40]
    • If you have red, itchy, or scaly patches between your toes or on your feet, you might have Athlete's foot. Avoid this by wearing flip-flops in school and locker room showers instead of going barefoot. If you need to, use an over-the-counter foot powder, or see your doctor for help.[41]
  8. Step 8 Apply an antiperspirant and deodorant to minimize body odor.
    Deodorants repel the bacteria that causes odor, while antiperspirants reduce how much you sweat. Choose an underarm product that’s labeled “antiperspirant,” and apply it after your shower or bath.[42]
    • Alternatively, use a mineral deodorant if you prefer natural ingredients or have sensitive skin.
    • Remember, it's totally normal to have body odor, especially under your arms. Your armpits naturally sweat more once you go through puberty, and underarm hair can trap sweat and bacteria.[43] If over-the-counter products don’t help, your healthcare provider can prescribe a strong antiperspirant.[44]
    • Reader Poll: We asked 230 wikiHow readers if they use deodorant, and 53% of them said yes. [Take Poll]
  9. Step 9 Keep your contact lenses clean to prevent eye infections.
    Rub and rinse your contact lenses with fresh solution, and store them in fresh solution every time you remove them. Avoid “topping off,” or mixing fresh solution with old or used solution, since it reduces disinfection effectiveness. To clean your case, empty all excess solution from the case and dry it with a fresh, clean tissue. Then, store the case upside down on a fresh, clean tissue with the caps off.[45]
    • Don't just rinse your contact with tap water and reuse them, or reuse the same contact solution day after day—this is setting you up to put bacteria in your eye!
  10. Step 10 Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds at a time.
    You should wash your hands regularly throughout the day, but especially after using the bathroom, after sneezing or coughing, before making or touching food, and after touching things that lots of other people have touched. Wet your hands with warm water, then lather soap in your hands for at least 20 seconds. Rinse your hands well, dry them with a paper towel, then turn off the water with the paper towel.[46]
    • Be sure to wash your wrists, in between your fingers, and under your nails.
  11. Step 11 Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.
    If you're sick, it's important to practice good hygiene to protect others. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and wash your hands after coughing or sneezing. If you're vomiting or have a fever, stay home and away from others.[47]
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Section 4 of 5:

Dental Hygiene

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  1. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day.
    Brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the backs, sides, and gum lines, and don’t forget to scrape your tongue. Floss daily to get rid of food particles and plaque in between your teeth, and use an antibacterial mouthwash after brushing and flossing.[48]
    • If you have braces or aligners, you may want to brush after every meal.
    • If you wear a retainer, disinfect it once a week with a denture cleaner, and clean the case daily.
    • Replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months, or more often if the bristles are visibly frayed or matted.[49]
    • Visit your dentist every 6 months for a regular checkup and cleaning, and avoid smoking and other tobacco products.
Section 5 of 5:

Nail Hygiene

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  1. Trim your nails often to keep them short and clean.
    To care for your nails, cut your nails straight across with sharp nail scissors or clippers. Scrub under your nails with soap and water (or a nail brush) every time you wash your hands to remove built-up dirt and grime.[50] Finish by applying hand cream on your nails and cuticles to keep them moisturized.
    • Do not bite or chew your nails, pull off hangnails, or cut your cuticles—they serve as barriers to prevent infection.
    • If your toenails are difficult to cut, soak your feet in warm salt water for 5 to 10 minutes to soften them before trimming.[51]
    EXPERT TIP
    Marta Nagorska

    Marta Nagorska

    Nail Artist
    Marta Nagorska is a Nail Technician and Nail Art Blogger based in London, UK. She runs the blog, Furious Filer, where she gives tutorials on nail care and advanced nail art. She has been practicing nail art for over 5 years and graduated from Northampton College with distinction with a Nail Technician and Manicurist degree in 2017. She has been awarded the top spot in the OPI Nail Art Competition.
    Marta Nagorska
    Marta Nagorska
    Nail Artist

    Use a manicure brush to clean the underside of your nails. Once the debris has softened from a shower or a bath, use a manicure brush to properly clean under your nails. Alternatively, you can use a wet wipe wrapped around a manicure stick or an eyelash spoolie.

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    I am 14 years old. Is it okay to use baby soap to wash my skin?
    Sarah Gehrke, RN, MS
    Sarah Gehrke, RN, MS
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    Sarah Gehrke is a Registered Nurse and Licensed Massage Therapist in Texas. Sarah has over 10 years of experience teaching and practicing phlebotomy and intravenous (IV) therapy using physical, psychological, and emotional support. She received her Massage Therapist License from the Amarillo Massage Therapy Institute in 2008 and a M.S. in Nursing from the University of Phoenix in 2013.
    Sarah Gehrke, RN, MS
    Sarah Gehrke, RN, MS
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    Expert Answer
    Many dermatologists actually recommend baby soap products to teens, adolescents, and adults! The soap is generally gentle and non-irritating to dry and sensitive skin. So whether you are 14 or 44, the baby soap is fine.
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    How often do I change the towels I dry myself with after a shower?
    Sarah Gehrke, RN, MS
    Sarah Gehrke, RN, MS
    Registered Nurse
    Sarah Gehrke is a Registered Nurse and Licensed Massage Therapist in Texas. Sarah has over 10 years of experience teaching and practicing phlebotomy and intravenous (IV) therapy using physical, psychological, and emotional support. She received her Massage Therapist License from the Amarillo Massage Therapy Institute in 2008 and a M.S. in Nursing from the University of Phoenix in 2013.
    Sarah Gehrke, RN, MS
    Sarah Gehrke, RN, MS
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    You can use bath towels that you are using once a day to dry off after a shower up to three times before they need to be washed.
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Tips

  • During your period, wear dark underwear and clothes. That way accidental spotting will be less noticeable. If this happens at school or in public, tie a sweatshirt around your waist to cover up until you get home.
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  • Make a mini-hygiene kit to keep in your purse or backpack. Bring a packet of breath mints, gum, or a small bottle of mouthwash for after meals. Pack a small travel mirror, hand sanitizer, deodorant, tissues, menstrual products, and a small comb for everyday use.
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  • If you're not sure how to use a tampon, need help buying hygiene products, or have questions or concerns about your period, ask an older relative or your doctor for advice.
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Tips from our Readers

  • Take care of your lips too. Put on a balm like Vaseline before bed and always exfoliate your lips with a toothbrush each day. Put on your lip balm that has coconut oil or beeswax to help keep your lips moisturized.
  • Always keep lotion or perfume with you when you're at school or just out and about. If you start to sweat or are worried about bad smells, just apply a little bit more wherever you are.
  • If you have piercings, make sure to take them out and clean them regularly.
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Warnings

  • Don't share personal items with other people to prevent disease and infections. This includes things like your toothbrush, hairbrush, washcloth, towel, razor, and cup.[52]
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  • Never use your fingernails to scrape your skin or pick at acne scabs. Squeezing, popping, or picking at pimples can cause infections and leave scarring.[53]
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  • If you notice any strong or unpleasant odors from your vagina, or if you see signs of infection, such as itching, burning, pain, swelling, or unusual discharge, make an appointment with your doctor or a gynecologist. They can determine what’s causing your symptoms and treat it appropriately.[54]
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References

  1. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/vulva
  2. ↑ https://www.devonsexualhealth.nhs.uk/your-sexual-health/genital-hygiene-our-tips/
  3. ↑ Cindy Basinski, MD. Board-Certified Urogynecologist. Expert Interview
  4. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/about/menstrual-hygiene.html
  5. ↑ Cindy Basinski, MD. Board-Certified Urogynecologist. Expert Interview
  6. ↑ https://www.thewomens.org.au/health-information/vulva-vagina/your-vulva-vagina/how-can-i-stay-healthy-down-there
  7. ↑ https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/you-dont-need-fancy-products-for-good-feminine-hygiene
  8. ↑ Cindy Basinski, MD. Board-Certified Urogynecologist. Expert Interview
  9. ↑ https://www.devonsexualhealth.nhs.uk/your-sexual-health/genital-hygiene-our-tips/
  1. ↑ https://goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/how-can-i-hygienically-wear-thong-and-wipe-my-bum
  2. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17091423/
  3. ↑ https://childrenswi.org/-/media/chwlibrary/publication-media-library/2020/03/30/20/04/1136en.pdf
  4. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/about/menstrual-hygiene.html
  5. ↑ https://www.jeffersonhealth.org/your-health/living-well/easy-ways-to-improve-vaginal-health
  6. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/womens-health/the-lowdown-on-vaginal-tlc
  7. ↑ https://www.healthforteens.co.uk/health/looking-after-your-body/personal-hygiene-checklist/
  8. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/9404-condoms
  9. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/peeing-after-sex
  10. ↑ https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/your-changing-body-puberty-in-girls
  11. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/about/menstrual-hygiene.html
  12. ↑ https://www.thewomens.org.au/health-information/vulva-vagina/your-vulva-vagina/how-can-i-stay-healthy-down-there
  13. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/tampons-bathing.html
  14. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/periods/fertility-in-the-menstrual-cycle/
  15. ↑ https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/menstruation-and-menstrual-cycle
  16. ↑ https://health.unl.edu/you-asked-we-answered-showering-every-day-bad-you-and-other-hygiene-questions/
  17. ↑ http://raisingchildren.net.au/articles/hygiene.html
  18. ↑ https://www.nva.org/what-is-vulvodynia/vulvar-anatomy/
  19. ↑ https://uihc.org/health-library/vulvar-skin-care-guidelines
  20. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/routine/healthier-looking-skin
  21. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/care/winter-skin-survival-kit
  22. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/dry-skin-self-care
  23. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/derm-treat/treat
  24. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/skin-hair-nails/hair-care/tips-for-healthy-hair
  25. ↑ Jenny Tran. Professional Hair Stylist. Expert Interview
  26. ↑ http://kidshealth.org/en/teens/hygiene-basics.html#
  27. ↑ https://childrenswi.org/-/media/chwlibrary/publication-media-library/2020/03/30/20/04/1136en.pdf
  28. ↑ http://www.pamf.org/teen/health/skin/pubichairremoval.html
  29. ↑ http://raisingchildren.net.au/articles/hygiene.html
  30. ↑ http://www.stlouischildrens.org/articles/wellness/clean-and-nearly-teen-personal-hygiene
  31. ↑ http://raisingchildren.net.au/articles/hygiene.html
  32. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/athletes-foot/symptoms-causes/dxc-20235876
  33. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17865-body-odor
  34. ↑ http://raisingchildren.net.au/articles/hygiene.html
  35. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/whats-that-smell-common-and-less-common-causes-of-body-odor
  36. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/contact-lenses/about/about-cleaning-disinfecting-and-storing-contact-lenses.html
  37. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/clean-hands/about/index.html
  38. ↑ http://raisingchildren.net.au/articles/hygiene.html
  39. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/16914-oral-hygiene
  40. ↑ https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/toothbrushes
  41. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/about/nail-hygiene.html
  42. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/nail-care-secrets/basics/healthy-nail-tips
  43. ↑ http://www.stlouischildrens.org/articles/wellness/clean-and-nearly-teen-personal-hygiene
  44. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/skin-care/popping
  45. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9131-vaginitis#management-and-treatment

About This Article

Cindy Basinski, MD
Medically reviewed by:
Cindy Basinski, MD
Board-Certified Urogynecologist
This article was medically reviewed by Cindy Basinski, MD and by wikiHow staff writer, Bailey Cho. Dr. Cindy Basinski is a Board-Certified Urogynecologist based in Newburgh, Indiana. She has been practicing both general and Urogynecologic surgery for over 24 years and specializes in minimally invasive surgical procedures. She is a Board Certified Subspecialist in Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery from the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG). She received her medical degree from the Indiana University School of Medicine. This article has been viewed 927,481 times.
5 votes - 56%
Co-authors: 131
Updated: July 7, 2025
Views: 927,481
Categories: Personal Care for Youth | Personal Hygiene
Article SummaryX

To have good hygiene as a girl, brush your teeth and wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser and a non-abrasive acne product, if you need it. Bathe every day or two, using a shampoo and conditioner for your hair type. Wash your pubic area with warm water and no soap, and shave carefully, if you want to, in the direction of hair growth. When you're on your period, you can maintain good hygiene by changing your pad or tampon every 4-8 hours and showering like usual in warm water. For more tips from our Medical reviewer, including applying makeup and smelling good with perfume and deodorant, read on!

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