When it comes to personal hygiene, most of us have the basics covered. But let’s face it – the penis tends to need a little bit more TLC. And it’s not just because we want to feel fresh (although that does play a role). But more importantly, we tend to put our penis in places where we don’t often put other parts of our body, which means we need to be hygienemaxxing as much as possible, especially when we’re sexually active.
Plus, there’s the whole question of confidence – hygiene has been proved by numerous studies to play a key role in our sexual performance. After all, who wants to get down to business if your junk smells like a one-way trip to the rotten cheese buffet?
And on a more serious note, having a clean penis is also key in preventing infections and maintaining sexual health, not just for yourself but also your sexual partners. So, let’s break it down, step by step, with a no-nonsense guide to keeping things clean and healthy below the belt.
The Right Way to Clean Your Penis
So, where to begin? Let’s start with basic cleaning tips:
Basic Cleaning Steps
- Rinse with warm water daily: Make it a habit to clean your penis every day during your shower, being especially thorough after sex or masturbation.
- Use a gentle soap: Choose a mild, unscented soap to avoid irritation or allergic reactions.
- Wash thoroughly but gently: Pay attention to the folds and crevices, but don’t scrub harshly.
Cleaning the Foreskin (if applicable)
If you’re uncircumcised, proper cleaning under the foreskin is even more important to prevent smegma buildup, a natural substance that can lead to odor and infection if not cleaned. (That’s where that cheesy smell comes from when you’ve not washed your bits in a bit.)
To clean the foreskin:
- Gently pull back the foreskin during cleaning.
- Rinse with warm water to remove any buildup.
- Dry the area completely before putting on underwear to avoid moisture trapping.
Do I Need To Clean My Penis More If I’m Uncircumcised?
While penis hygiene should be a generally universal concept, it’s fair to say that it’s especially important when you’re uncircumcised. But make sure to never forcefully retract the foreskin if it doesn’t naturally go back, as this could cause injury. If you notice tightness or difficulty cleaning, it’s worth consulting a doctor.
Tips for Maintaining Penis Hygiene
So, what’s the best way to keep things squeaky clean down there? Here are some of our recommendations:
Use Mild, Unscented Soap
Harsh or heavily scented soaps can disrupt the skin’s natural balance, leaving your poor penis red and raw and potentially highly irritated. Stick to gentle, fragrance-free products where possible.
Limit Use of Talcum Powder
While talcum powder can help with moisture control, excessive use may irritate sensitive skin. Use sparingly, if at all.
Wear Breathable Underwear
Choose underwear made of natural, breathable fabrics like cotton to reduce sweating and chafing.
Wash After Sex or Masturbation
Get into the habit of washing your penis after any sexual activity, including masturbation!
Practice Safe Sex
Using protection during sex isn’t always the most fun, we get it – but it’s not just for preventing STIs, it also reduces the risk of infections caused by bacteria. When sleeping with any new partner, wear a condom, even if they take their own form of birth control. Birth control prevents babies, not chlamydia or a bacterial infection.
Similarly, if you’re planning on entering into an exclusive relationship with someone, suggest that you both get tested before sleeping together without protection. It’s an awkward convo for sure, but it’s worth it to establish trust. (And also allows you to smash junk without a condom, if that’s the goal).
And while we’re on the topic of making sex better for your partners, don’t forget that you can make your penis harder, thicker and more durable during sex with regular use of our penis pump. Check out our dick pump before and after pics if you don’t believe us!
Signs You May Need to See a Doctor
Even with good hygiene habits, symptoms that indicate a potential problem with your penis include:
Persistent or Unusual Odor
If the smell doesn’t go away despite thorough cleaning, it’s time to get it checked out.
Unexplained Discharge
Discharge could be a sign of an infection and shouldn’t be ignored.
Pain or Discomfort
Any pain while urinating or during sexual activity should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Swelling or Redness
These could be symptoms of infection or irritation that needs medical treatment.
Lumps or Growths
Any lumps or bumps that don’t go away should be examined by a doctor.
Difficulty Urinating
If you’re struggling to urinate, it could indicate a more serious issue, such as a prostate problem or urethral blockage.
Final Thoughts
Penis hygiene is simple but essential. You’re preventing infections, ensuring confidence in the bedroom, and making any bedroom experiences pleasant for your sexual partners.
So, take care of your bits, because they deserve it. Trust us—your body (and your partners) will thank you!
