How to perform ghusl, step by step
Ghusl is the full ritual bath that lifts the major state of impurity, after intercourse, menstruation or childbirth. At its minimum it is intention plus washing the whole body; the Sunnah method adds wudu and a set order. Here are the steps, when ghusl is required, and answers to common questions.
Last updated: 4 October 2026
When ghusl is required
- After sexual intercourse or the emission of semen.
- At the end of menstruation (hayd) and post-natal bleeding (nifas).
- When a non-Muslim enters Islam, in the view of many scholars.
- For the deceased, performed by others before the funeral.
It is also sunnah before Jumu‘ah, the two Eids and entering ihram for Hajj or Umrah.
How to perform ghusl, step by step
- Make the intention (niyyah) in your heart to purify yourself from the major state of impurity.
- Say “Bismillah”.
- Wash your hands three times.
- Wash the private parts with the left hand, removing any impurity.
- Perform wudu as for prayer (some delay washing the feet until the end).
- Pour water over your head three times, running your fingers through the hair to the roots.
- Pour water over the whole body, starting with the right side, then the left, making sure water reaches every part, including the navel, behind the ears and between the toes.
This follows the descriptions of the Prophet’s ﷺ ghusl by ‘A’ishah (Sahih al-Bukhari 248) and Maymunah (Sahih al-Bukhari 265).
What ghusl allows
Until ghusl is done, a person may not pray, perform tawaf, or, according to most scholars, touch the mushaf or recite the Quran. See reading the Quran without wudu. If water cannot be used, see tayammum.
For the minor purification before prayer, see how to perform wudu. Our Islamic studies lessons cover purification for new Muslims and young people in a private, respectful way.
Frequently asked questions
What are the obligatory parts of ghusl?
The minimum is the intention and washing the entire body with water, so that no part is left dry. The Hanafi school also requires rinsing the mouth and nose. The steps above follow the fuller Sunnah method.
Do women need to undo their braids for ghusl?
For ghusl after intercourse, no: Umm Salamah was told that it is enough to pour water over the head three times (Sahih Muslim 330). For ghusl after menstruation, many scholars recommend undoing them.
Is a shower enough for ghusl?
Yes, as long as you make the intention and the water reaches the whole body, including the mouth and nose in the Hanafi view.
Do I need to make wudu again after ghusl?
No. If you performed wudu as part of ghusl, or ghusl fully washed the body, you can pray, as long as nothing breaks your wudu afterwards (‘A’ishah, in Jami‘ at-Tirmidhi 107).
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