Wudu (Ablution) - Step by Step
Wudu is the ritual washing required before prayer. The Quran names its four essentials; the sunnah adds the order, repetition and supplications that complete it.
Also searched as: wuzu ka tarika | how to do wudu | wudu steps | wuzu ke faraiz
How to
Steps in order
- 1Make intention and say Bismillah, then wash both hands to the wrists three times.
- 2Rinse the mouth three times and clean the nose with water three times.
- 3Wash the whole face three times, hairline to chin and ear to ear.
- 4Wash the right arm then the left arm to above the elbows, three times each.
- 5Wipe a quarter of the head once, then wipe the ears.
- 6Wash the right foot then the left foot to above the ankles, three times each, rubbing between the toes.
The four essentials
Washing the face, washing both arms to the elbows, wiping a quarter of the head, and washing both feet to the ankles - these four are obligatory by the verse of wudu.
Intention in the heart and saying Bismillah at the start, washing each part three times, rinsing the mouth and nose, and rubbing between fingers and toes complete the sunnah method.
What breaks wudu
Natural discharges, deep sleep while reclining, loss of consciousness, and loud laughter in prayer break wudu and require repeating it.
Doubt alone does not break wudu - certainty is not lifted by doubt.
Sources & review
Quran 5:6; method detailed in Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim
Learn personal details from a qualified teacher; minor school differences exist.
Educational content — not a fatwa. See methodology and disclaimer.
Reviewed • 2026-01-01Our methodology
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is the dua before and after wudu?
Begin with Bismillah. After finishing, the testimony dua opens the eight gates of Paradise - both duas are on our site with Arabic and meaning.
Can I wipe over socks?
Wiping over leather socks (khuffain) for a day and night as a resident is established, with conditions - learn them from a scholar.
Does touching the phone break wudu?
No. Only the recognised breakers - discharges, deep sleep, unconsciousness - break wudu.
Duas
Related duas
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