How Do I Clean My Daughter's Privates?

Cleaning your daughter's genitals is simple and requires a gentle approach. Focus on the external area only; the vagina cleans itself naturally.

Warm Water is Best: Use warm water and a soft, unscented cloth or cotton ball to gently wipe the external genital area. Avoid harsh soaps, scented wipes, or douching. [Source: Raising Children Network, My Vagina, WebMD]
Soap (Sparingly): For older children, a small amount of mild, unscented baby wash can be used occasionally, but rinse thoroughly afterward. Avoid using soap on infants. [Source: Raising Children Network, Seattle Children's]
Direction of Wipe: Wipe from front to back to prevent the spread of bacteria. [This is implied across multiple sources, essential for hygiene]
Pat Dry: Gently pat the area dry with a soft towel. [Source: Raising Children Network]
Avoid Irritants: Do not use harsh chemicals, scented products, or nappy wipes. Plain, unscented toilet paper is recommended. [Source: Raising Children Network]

Teaching Hygiene Habits

As your daughter grows, teach her proper hygiene practices, including:

Urination: Encourage her to urinate as soon as she feels the urge and not to hold it. [Source: Raising Children Network]
Independent Cleaning: When she's old enough, teach her how to clean herself properly, emphasizing gentleness and the importance of wiping from front to back. [Source: Reddit]
Addressing Concerns: If you notice any redness, irritation, or unusual discharge, consult your pediatrician. [Source: Cleveland Clinic, Nemours KidsHealth]

Avoid Over-Cleaning: The vagina has its own natural cleansing mechanisms. Over-cleaning can disrupt the delicate balance and lead to irritation. [Source: WebMD]
Parental Touch: A parent may need to assist with cleaning, especially in early childhood, but as the child grows older, they should learn to perform this task themselves. This should always be done appropriately and with due regard to privacy and boundaries. [Source: Quora]