Gently wash the penis with warm water each day when you’re having a shower or bath. If you have a foreskin, pull it back gently and wash underneath.
If you don’t wash underneath the foreskin correctly, a cheesy-looking substance called smegma may begin to gather.
Smegma is a natural lubricant that keeps the penis moist. It’s found on the head of the penis and under the foreskin.
If smegma builds up in the foreskin, it can start to smell, stop you easily pulling your foreskin back and become a breeding ground for bacteria. This can cause redness and swelling of the head of your penis, called balanitis.
Don’t forget your balls!
Don’t forget to clean the base of the penis and the testicles, where sweat and hair can combine to produce a strong smell, just as unpleasant as in your armpits.
These areas need frequent washing to stop sweat from accumulating, especially as they are enclosed in underwear for most of the day.
Make sure the area between the base of the testicles and the anus is also clean and odour-free.
While you’re down there, it’s a good idea to check your testicles for lumps once a month after a warm bath or shower.