Types of Personal Hygiene

Keeping your body properly cleansed is a fundamental but not sole element of good personal hygiene 24. Good hygiene practices literally continue around the clock 4. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day, washing your hands at appropriate times and caring for your appearance are all important components of personal hygiene, according to the Children's Youth and Women's Health Services, or CYWHS 234. Getting an adequate amount of sleep also contributes to good personal hygiene 4.

Body

Taking a daily bath or shower using a mild soap and warm water helps wash away dirt and bacteria that may lead to body odor. Numerous medical conditions and diseases can be avoided or managed by simply keeping your body clean, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Hair

Good Personal Hygiene Practices & Procedures

Learn More

Shampooing your hair and massaging your scalp will wash away dirt, oil buildup and dead skin cells, explains CYWHS. You may need to shampoo more or less often depending on your hair type. Conditioning your hair after shampooing can make it easier to comb out.

Hands and Feet

Washing your hands throughout the day with soap and water can help ward off the spread of bacteria and viruses, according to CYWHS. Always cleanse your hands before preparing food and eating meals and after using the bathroom, coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose.

Washing your feet at least once day is also important to good personal hygiene 4. Dry your feet thoroughly, especially in the bacteria-prone area between your toes, notes CYWHS.

Grooming

Definition of Personal Hygiene

Learn More

Good grooming practices are vital to personal hygiene 4. It's easy for socks and underclothes to collect dead skin cells and sweat because they sit up against your skin, according to CYWHS. Change your underwear and put on a fresh pair of socks every day. Putting on clean clothes can make you look and feel good about yourself.

Oral

Good oral hygiene includes brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once, according to the American Dental Association 34. Keeping your teeth clean helps clear away food particles and plaque that may lead to tooth decay and gum disease 3. The ADA recommends regular dental checkups and cleanings to help keep teeth and gums healthy 3.

Sleep

Poor sleep hygiene is a widespread problem in the United States, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center 14. Establishing a set bedtime and awakening time may help improve sleep hygiene 4. Resisting the urge to take naps or keeping them brief and avoiding alcohol and caffeine for a minimum of four hours before going to be bed may promote higher quality sleep.