What is Wudu?
Wudu (وضوء) is the ritual purification (ablution) that is required before performing Salah (prayer), touching the Quran, and certain other acts of worship. It is a physical and spiritual preparation — the Prophet ﷺ said that when a Muslim performs wudu, their sins fall from the parts of the body being washed.
When is Wudu Required?
- Before performing any of the 5 daily prayers
- Before performing any voluntary (nafl) prayer
- Before touching or reciting the Quran (with physical copy)
- Before performing Tawaf around the Kaaba
The Fard (Obligatory) Acts of Wudu
Without these, the wudu is invalid:
- Wash the face — from the hairline to the chin, and ear to ear
- Wash both arms — including the elbows, right then left
- Wipe (masah) over the head — at least a quarter of the head
- Wash both feet — including the ankles, right then left
The Sunnah Acts of Wudu
- Begin with Bismillah
- Wash both hands up to the wrists three times before starting
- Use miswak (or brush teeth) before rinsing the mouth
- Rinse the mouth three times (madmadah)
- Sniff water into the nose three times (istinshaq)
- Wipe the entire head, then the ears
- Perform each act three times
- Maintain the correct order (tartib)
Duas for Wudu
Before Wudu: Bismillah al-Rahman al-Raheem (In the name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate)
After Wudu: Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah wahdahu la sharika lah, wa ashhadu anna Muhammadan abduhu wa rasuluh. Allahummaj'alni minat-tawwabeen waj'alni minal-mutatahhireen.
Find more duas in our Dua Generator.
What Breaks Wudu?
- Passing wind, urine, or stool
- Deep sleep (where consciousness is lost)
- Loss of consciousness or sanity
- Touching private parts directly (according to some scholars)
Once you have completed wudu, check our Prayer Times to ensure you pray in time.