What Happens If We Don't Clean Your Belly Button?

If you don't clean your belly button, you risk a buildup of dirt, dead skin cells, oil, and sweat, leading to several unpleasant consequences.

Potential Problems From an Unclean Belly Button

Here's a breakdown of what can occur:

Odor: The accumulation of debris creates a breeding ground for bacteria, resulting in an unpleasant smell.
Skin Discoloration: The buildup can cause the skin within the belly button to darken or become discolored.
Itching: Irritation from the accumulated dirt and bacteria can lead to persistent itching.
Bacterial Infections (Bacterial Dermatitis): Bacteria thrive in the warm, moist environment of an unclean belly button, increasing the risk of a bacterial infection like bacterial dermatitis. This can cause redness, swelling, pain, and potentially pus.
Fungal Infections (Candidiasis): Similarly, fungi like Candida can flourish, leading to a fungal infection known as candidiasis. Symptoms may include itching, redness, and a cottage cheese-like discharge.
Omphalolith (Belly Button Stone): In rare cases, the buildup can harden and form a concretion called an omphalolith or belly button stone. This can be difficult to remove and may require medical intervention.

Regular cleaning is crucial to prevent these issues. Here's how:

Gather Supplies: You'll need a cotton swab, warm water, and mild soap.
Soften Debris: Moisten the cotton swab with warm water and gently loosen any visible dirt or debris.
Cleanse: Apply a small amount of mild soap to a fresh cotton swab and gently clean the inside of your belly button.
Rinse: Use a clean, damp cotton swab to remove any soap residue.
Dry Thoroughly: Pat the area dry with a clean towel or cotton swab. This is especially important to prevent fungal growth.

Consult a doctor if you experience:

These symptoms may indicate a more serious infection requiring medical treatment.