Written by: Abdulganiyu Roodiyah Motunrayo
In Islam, cleanliness is not just a matter of hygiene. It’s half of our faith. The prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Purity is half of faith. Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah) fills the scale and subhanallah (Glory be to Allah) and Alhamdulillah fill that which is between heaven and earth “ — Sahih Muslim, Book 2, Hadith 432.
Clean habits lead to a clean heart, and the restroom, although often overlooked, is one of the places Islamic etiquettes must be put into practice.
This article is a friendly guide on how to use the restroom according to Islamic teachings. Whether you’re teaching a child, embracing Islam, or seeking to refine your daily actions, this is for you.
Why Restroom Etiquettes Matters In Islam?
Every part of a Muslims life is guided by manners, even in moment of privacy. The restroom is a place of physical relief but also spiritual discipline.
Here’s why it matters:
• Following the Sunnah: The prophet (peace be upon him) guided us in every detail of life, even how to enter and exit the toilet, because Islam is a complete way of life.
• Spiritual protection: The restroom is considered a place where devils and impurities reside. Saying the proper du’aa before entering serves as a means of protection.
• Building character: Manners practiced in private reflect the state of our heart.
• Preventing harm: Cleanliness prevents illness and ensures the comfort of others.
Before Entering The Restroom
1. Say the Dua for protection:
“Bismillah, Allahumma inni a’udhu bika minal-khubthi wal-khaba’ith.”
(In the name of Allah. O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the male and female devils) — Sahih al-Bukhari, Haddith 142; Sahih Muslim, Haddith 375
This dua creates a sheid between you and any form of evil, by the will of Allah.
2. Enter with the left foot first:
The prophet enjoined doing noble things with the right and entering impure places with the left:
“When any of you enters the toilet, let him enter with his left foot, and when he comes out, let him exit with his right.” Narrated by Ibn Majah
While Inside The Restroom
Islam teaches privacy, modesty, and cleanliness in the most respectful way:
• Avoid speaking: It is disliked to talk or greet anyone inside the toilet.
• Use your left hand for cleaning: The prophet said:
“When one of you cleans himself, let him not use his right hand.” — Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 156; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 267.
• Clean properly using water: This ensures that no impurity remains on the body.
• Avoid facing or turning your back to the Qiblah:
“When you go to defecate, do not face the Qiblah or turn your back to it. Rather face east or West.” Sahih Muslim, Hadith 264.
• Do not delay unnecessarily: The restroom is not a place for relaxation, idle sitting, or phone pressing. Attend to the call of nature as quick as you can, and exit immediately.
After Leaving The Restroom
1. Step out with the Right Foot
2. Say the Dua for forgiveness:
“Ghufranaka”
(I seek your forgiveness) — Sunan Abu Dawood, Haddith 30
This simple act reminds us that even after fulfilling a natural need, we turn back to Allah in humility.
Key Points To Remember
• Keep the bathroom clean for others, it is part of being a responsible Muslim.
• Dispose of waste and tissue properly.
• Avoid splashing water on yourself and others.
• Do not use your phone or scroll while in the toilet, it is not a place of entertainment.
• Teach children from an early age using simple reminders and poster with the dua’s.
Final Thoughts
Using the restroom with manners may seem small, but it reflects a heart that wants to live by Islam in every detail even in privacy. A Clean heart starts with clean habits. When we follow the Sunnah in even the simplest things, we open our lives to barakah and discipline.
So next time you reach for the bathroom door, pause, say your adhkaar and remember: this too is worship.
May Allah purify our hearts, our bodies, and our intentions. May He make use among those who uphold clealiness in all its forms. Aameen.