How to clean a deep inside belly button properly and safely

September 25, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a study conducted by North Carolina State University, the average human navel is home to 67 different species of bacteria. Knowing how to clean a deep inside belly button is therefore essential for preventing infections, odors, and the buildup of bacteria, dirt, and dead skin cells.

Quick Summary

A gentle approach using mild soap and a cotton swab or washcloth is the most effective way to clean a deep navel and remove trapped dirt and debris without causing irritation. Regular cleaning, along with proper drying, is key to maintaining good hygiene and preventing unpleasant smells or infections.

Key Points

Gentle is Best: Always use a mild, fragrance-free soap with a soft washcloth or cotton swab to avoid irritating the sensitive skin inside the navel.
Thorough Drying is Critical: After cleaning, use a dry cotton swab or towel corner to completely dry the inside of your belly button, as moisture encourages bacterial growth and odor.
Weekly Deep Clean: A simple daily wash is good, but a more focused deep clean once a week using a soapy cotton swab is ideal for a deeper, 'innie' navel.
Recognize Infection Signs: Be aware of symptoms like redness, swelling, pain, or foul-smelling discharge, which may indicate an infection requiring a doctor's attention.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Lotions: Stay away from aggressive scrubs, scented products, and applying lotions inside your belly button, as these can cause irritation and trap moisture.
Address Stubborn Buildup Professionally: If you have hardened debris you can't remove yourself, consult a healthcare provider to prevent damage.

Why cleaning your deep belly button is essential

Your belly button, especially if it's an "innie" or concave navel, is a warm, moist, and dark environment that provides an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Over time, these conditions can lead to the accumulation of lint, dirt, sweat, and dead skin cells, which can cause unpleasant odors, irritation, and, in some cases, infection. In very rare instances, this buildup can harden into an umbilical stone, or omphalolith. Regular, gentle cleaning is a simple preventative measure that can save you from future discomfort.

Tools and solutions for a safe and effective clean

For most people, a few simple household items are all that is needed for effective belly button cleaning. However, it's crucial to use the right products to avoid irritating the sensitive skin in this area.

What to use:

Mild soap and water: This is the safest and most recommended method by dermatologists. Opt for a gentle, fragrance-free soap to minimize the risk of skin irritation.
Cotton swabs: Perfect for reaching deep into the crevices of an "innie" belly button and gently dislodging debris.
Soft washcloth: An excellent alternative for a broader, but still gentle, cleaning of the navel area.
Rubbing alcohol: Some experts suggest using rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab for a deeper clean, followed by a water rinse to prevent skin dryness. This should be used sparingly and cautiously, as it can be harsh on sensitive skin.
Saline solution: A solution of sterile saline is a safe and effective option, especially for cleaning a healing belly button piercing.

What to avoid:

Harsh soaps and scrubs: Scented products can cause dryness and irritation.
Lotions and creams: Applying lotions inside the navel can trap moisture and promote bacterial growth.
Aggressive scrubbing: Vigorously scrubbing the sensitive skin can cause micro-tears, potentially leading to infection.
Using fingers with long nails: Can scratch and damage the delicate skin.

Step-by-step guide for cleaning a deep navel

For a deep or concave belly button, a simple shower might not be enough. Follow these steps for a thorough clean:

Prepare your tools: Gather your mild soap, cotton swabs, and a clean towel.
Begin the process: During your shower or bath, lather a cotton swab with the mild soap and water.
Gently clean: Carefully and gently insert the soapy cotton swab into the folds of your belly button. Move it in a circular motion to loosen and collect any dirt, lint, or debris. Replace the swab with a fresh one if it becomes soiled.
Rinse thoroughly: Use a fresh, water-moistened cotton swab to rinse away any soap residue. Leaving soap behind can cause irritation and dryness.
Dry completely: This is a crucial step. Pat the inside of your navel completely dry with a clean, dry cotton swab or the corner of a towel. A moist environment encourages bacterial growth, which can lead to odor and infection.
Maintain consistency: For optimal hygiene, consider doing a deep clean once a week, in addition to regular, daily washing in the shower.

What to do if you have an infected belly button

An infected belly button may have symptoms like a foul-smelling discharge, redness, swelling, and pain. If you notice these signs, avoid home remedies and consult a healthcare provider or dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment. They will be able to determine if the infection is bacterial, fungal, or caused by another issue.

Comparing cleaning methods


Method	Best For	Pros	Cons
Mild Soap and Water	Regular cleaning of a deep navel.	Gentle, readily available, low risk of irritation.	May not remove heavily impacted debris.
Rubbing Alcohol	Occasional deep cleaning.	Strong disinfectant properties.	Can be drying and irritating to sensitive skin. Must be rinsed off.
Saline Solution	Aftercare for new belly button piercings.	Gentle and promotes healing without harsh chemicals.	Specific to piercings, not necessary for general hygiene.
Professional Extraction	Removing stubborn, hardened debris or omphaloliths.	Highly effective for problem cases.	Requires a doctor's visit and specialized tools.

Conclusion

Cleaning your deep belly button is a straightforward but important aspect of personal hygiene. By using gentle tools like cotton swabs and mild, fragrance-free soap, you can effectively remove dirt and bacteria that can cause odor and irritation. The key is to be gentle, consistent, and always ensure the area is completely dry afterward. If you have a piercing or notice signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or foul-smelling discharge, it's best to seek professional medical advice rather than attempting to treat it yourself. Incorporating this simple step into your regular routine will help you maintain a clean, healthy, and odor-free navel. For more information on general hygiene and skin health, you can visit a trusted resource like the Cleveland Clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best method is to use a cotton swab lathered with mild, fragrance-free soap and water. Gently scrub the folds of the navel, then rinse and dry thoroughly with a fresh cotton swab.

For optimal hygiene, it's recommended to do a thorough cleaning once a week. However, if you are prone to sweating or have a deeper navel, a daily gentle wash in the shower is also beneficial.

Yes, you can use rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab for a deep clean, but it should be used sparingly. Always rinse the area with water immediately afterward and dry completely, as alcohol can be very drying and irritating.

A smelly belly button is most often caused by a buildup of sweat, dirt, dead skin cells, and bacteria trapped in the deep folds of the navel. Regular cleaning and drying can prevent this odor.

If you suspect an infection, do not try to treat it at home. Look for signs like redness, swelling, discharge, and pain, and consult a doctor or dermatologist for proper treatment.

It is not recommended to use hydrogen peroxide for cleaning your belly button, as it can damage healthy skin cells and slow down the healing process, especially if there's a piercing or irritation.

An omphalolith is a rare, stone-like mass that can form in the belly button from a hardened buildup of sebum, dead skin cells, and dirt. If you have one, a healthcare professional can safely remove it.