Maintaining personal hygiene is a cornerstone of long-term health and wellness. While daily showers help us feel fresh, some often-overlooked body parts demand special care. Areas like the underarms, behind the knees, and the belly button can harbour hidden problems if not cleaned regularly. A dermatologist has now detailed the unpleasant consequences of ignoring your navel's cleanliness for just one month.
The Unseen Buildup Inside Your Navel
Dr Rashmi Sharma, Senior Consultant in Dermatology at Fortis Hospital, Gurgaon, explains that the belly button is a small, enclosed space prone to accumulation. Sweat, dead skin cells, the body's natural oils, and even tiny fibres from clothing can gather there. When this mixture is left undisturbed for weeks, the results are far from pleasant.
"Left alone for weeks, this buildup can lead to noticeable odour, itching, redness, and sometimes a waxy or pasty discharge," Dr Sharma told indianexpress.com in an interaction on December 6, 2025.
From Bad Odour to Painful Navel Stones
The issues can escalate beyond mere discomfort. In more severe cases, the trapped debris can harden into a solid mass known as an omphalolith or navel stone. This formation can be painful and often requires removal by a healthcare professional. Furthermore, the warm, moist environment of a dirty navel is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria or yeast.
This microbial overgrowth can occasionally lead to a full-blown infection. Dr Sharma emphasises that the principle is similar to cleaning behind the ears or between the toes—any fold where sweat and skin cells can get trapped needs regular attention to prevent irritation and maintain healthy skin.
How to Clean Your Belly Button Correctly
According to Dr Sharma, the best approach is gentle and straightforward. During your regular shower, use warm water and a mild soap. Clean the navel gently with your fingertips or a soft washcloth. It is crucial to rinse the area well to ensure no soap residue remains, as it can irritate the sensitive skin inside.
After washing, drying the belly button thoroughly is essential. Any leftover moisture can promote yeast growth. Gently pat the area dry with a towel or let it air dry completely.
For individuals with deeper navels, Dr Sharma suggests a careful method for deeper cleaning: use a cotton swab lightly dipped in warm water or a dab of gentle soap. She strongly warns against harsh scrubbing or using any sharp objects inside the navel.
When to See a Doctor
It is vital to recognise signs that indicate a problem beyond simple buildup. If you experience persistent redness, pain, a foul odour that doesn't subside after cleaning, or any unusual discharge, your belly button may be infected. At this point, consulting a healthcare professional is imperative instead of attempting self-treatment.
In summary, a consistent and simple hygiene routine is all it takes to keep your belly button healthy. This small habit effectively prevents the month-long accumulation of debris that can transform this tiny body part into a source of significant trouble.
