This is a step-by-step guide to wudu — the ablution performed before prayer. (For what wudu is and why it matters, see What is Wudu?.) The method below follows the Quran's command1 and the way the Prophet ﷺ is described as performing it.2

  1. 1

    Make the intention

    Begin with the quiet intention (niyyah) in your heart to perform wudu for the sake of God, and say Bismillah ("In the name of God").

  2. 2

    Wash the hands

    Wash both hands up to the wrists three times, making sure the water reaches between the fingers.2

  3. 3

    Rinse the mouth

    Take water into the mouth and rinse it, three times.

  4. 4

    Rinse the nose

    Gently draw a little water into the nose and blow it out, three times.

  5. 5

    Wash the face

    Wash the whole face three times, from the hairline to the chin and from ear to ear.1

  6. 6

    Wash the arms

    Wash each arm from the fingertips to the elbow three times — the right arm first, then the left.1

  7. 7

    Wipe the head and ears

    With wet hands, wipe over the head once, then wipe the inside and back of the ears.1

  8. 8

    Wash the feet

    Wash each foot up to the ankle three times — the right foot first, then the left — washing between the toes.1

You're done

Your wudu is complete. Many Muslims finish by bearing witness to the faith (the shahada). You now remain in a state of wudu — ready to pray — until it is broken (for example by using the toilet, passing wind, or deep sleep), after which you simply repeat these steps.