Many men wonder what the proper hygiene routine should be after urinating. While it may seem simple, there are actually some important steps guys should take to clean themselves effectively after peeing and promote good penile health. Understanding the basics of proper hygiene can help men feel confident they are taking care of their body appropriately.
Should You Wash Your Hands After Peeing?
Washing the hands after urination is non-negotiable. Anytime the penis is handled, such as during urination, it is crucial to wash the hands thoroughly with soap and warm water afterwards. Washing hands helps remove any bacteria or viruses that may have transferred from the penis to the hands. Proper handwashing technique involves using soap and scrubbing hands for at least 20 seconds before rinsing clean under running water. Men should be sure to wash hands after peeing at home as well as use proper hygiene when using public restrooms.
Should You Wash Your Penis After Peeing?
So what about cleaning the penis itself after urination? Many men give their penis a shake after peeing to remove excess drips of urine. However, additional cleaning is not necessary for most men, as the flow of urine helps rinse the urethra and opening of the penis. Washing after every trip to the bathroom can irritate the sensitive skin. The exception is for uncircumcised men, who should retract the foreskin and briefly rinse the head of the penis after urinating. This helps remove any urine buildup that may occur under the foreskin.
How Should You Dry Yourself After Peeing?
After washing up, it’s important to properly dry the penis and hands. Air drying or patting with a clean towel are recommended rather than rubbing, which can cause irritation. Men with foreskins should take care to dry underneath the foreskin as moisture trapped there can allow bacteria to proliferate.
What About Using Wet Wipes or Sanitizing Gels?
Some men opt to use wet wipes or sanitizing gels on the penis after urination. This is not recommended, as many wet wipe products contain chemicals like alcohol that can dry out and irritate the delicate penile skin. Sanitizers may disrupt the natural bacterial environment. A simple rinse with water is sufficient for day-to-day cleanliness.
Are Devices Like Pee Funnels Helpful?
Portable, disposable pee funnels are marketed to men as an easier way to urinate while standing up or outdoors. However, they do not negate the need to wash hands before and after use. Some men may find these funnels useful in specific situations, but they are not a requirement for hygiene.
What About After Peeing in Public Restrooms?
Proper hygiene becomes especially critical after using public restrooms, which have higher bacteria levels than home facilities. Always wash hands thoroughly after public restroom use. Carrying a small bottle of hand sanitizer can help kill germs if soap and water are not available. Some men also keep sanitizing wipes in their pocket or bag for quick penis cleaning, but again this is not mandatory. Just be sure to allow time for the penis skin to air dry before putting pants back on.
Are There Any Health Issues Related to Improper Cleansing?
Failing to keep the penis clean can allow bacteria, viruses and fungi to take hold, increasing the risk of common penile conditions:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Balanitis – inflammation of the foreskin and head
- Yeast infections
- Jock itch – fungal infection of groin skin
In rare cases poor hygiene can also lead to more serious infections requiring antibiotics. Practicing good cleansing habits after urination can help maintain penile health.
Should You Use Any Special Products for Penile Hygiene?
Most men do not require specialized products for adequate penile cleansing and hygiene. Gentle, fragrance-free soaps and water are ideal for hand and penis washing. Harsh soaps should be avoided, as well as products with dyes, deodorants or irritating chemicals.
If a man deals with frequent penile skin conditions or odors, he can talk to his doctor or urologist about medicated cleansers that may help. Certain skin conditions like balanitis may be managed with prescription antifungal or antibiotic creams.
How Often Should Men Shower or Bathe?
In addition to washing up after urination, men should maintain an overall hygiene routine that includes regular showering and bathing. Recommendations typically suggest men bathe at least several times per week, or more often with heavy perspiration, sexual activity, etc.
What About Manscaping and Pubic Hair Grooming?
Trimming and grooming pubic hair is a personal preference that does not necessarily affect hygiene. However, men with longer pubic hair may want to gently wash the area after urination to keep urine from clinging to the hairs. Keeping hair trimmed may promote cleanliness as well.
Are Baby Wipes an Acceptable Option?
Some men use baby wipes for quick cleanups, including after peeing. However, baby wipes should not substitute for thorough washing. The perfumes and chemicals in wipes can irritate delicate genital skin, especially with frequent use. If using baby wipes, look for fragrance-free, sensitive skin formulas.
Should You Use Soap on the Penis?
Harsh soaps should be avoided, but a mild, fragrance-free soap and water can be used to gently wash the external genitals as needed. Soap should never be inserted in the urethral opening. Always rinse soap away thoroughly and avoid leaving residue.
Do Spermicidal Lubricants Help Cleanliness?
Spermicidal gels and lubricants are not recommended for routine cleansing. The chemicals they contain can cause skin irritation with frequent use. Proper washing with plain water is adequate for day-to-day cleanliness.
Conclusion
Practicing good hygiene after urination involves washing the hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. For most men, additional cleaning of the penis is not necessary outside of a quick rinse for uncircumcised men. Showering regularly, using mild cleansers, and avoiding harsh chemicals can help maintain penile health. Proper hand washing is key to preventing the spread of bacteria after holding the penis. With the right cleansing routine, men can keep things fresh and clean.
References
Articles on Penile Hygiene
- Medical News Today – What to know about penile hygiene
- Healthline – Penis Hygiene: Tips for Cleaning Your Penis
- VeryWell Health – How to Clean Your Penis
CDC on Handwashing
Studies on Penile Hygiene
- Berry A. Proper penile hygiene: Understanding this sensitive issue. Urol Nurs. 2020;40(5):305-309. doi:10.7257/1053-816X.2020.40.5.305 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33227239/
- Birley HDL, Walker MM, Luzzi GA, et al. Clinical features and management of recurrent balanitis; association with atopy and genital washing. Genitourin Med. 1993;69(5):400–403. doi:10.1136/sti.69.5.400 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1195281/
- Morris BJ, Krieger JN. Penile inflammatory skin disorders and the preventive role of circumcision. Int J Prev Med. 2017;8:32. Published 2017 May 9. doi:10.4103/ijpvm.IJPVM_377_16 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5478224/