Yes—most patients are encouraged to shower either the night before or the morning of surgery.
Showering helps reduce bacteria on your skin, which may lower the risk of infection. Some surgeons or hospitals also ask patients to use a special antibacterial soap before certain procedures.
Always follow the instructions provided by your surgical team, as recommendations can vary depending on the type of surgery you're having.
If you're getting ready for surgery, our How to Prepare for Surgery: A Complete Patient Checklist walks through everything you should do before your procedure.
Quick Summary
- Most patients should shower the night before or the morning of surgery.
- Your surgeon may recommend a special antibacterial soap.
- Avoid lotions, creams, deodorant, perfumes, or powders afterward unless instructed otherwise.
- Wear clean, comfortable clothing after your shower.
- If you're unsure, follow your surgeon's specific instructions.
Why Is Showering Before Surgery Important?
Your skin naturally contains bacteria. While most bacteria are harmless, reducing the amount of bacteria on your skin before surgery may help decrease the risk of surgical site infections.
For this reason, many hospitals include a preoperative shower as part of their preparation instructions.
Should I Use Special Antibacterial Soap?
Sometimes.
Your surgeon may ask you to shower with an antibacterial cleanser, such as chlorhexidine (CHG), especially before orthopedic, spine, or joint replacement procedures.
If you receive special soap:
- Follow the instructions carefully.
- Avoid getting it in your eyes, ears, or mouth.
- Do not use other soaps afterward unless instructed.
- Do not apply lotions or moisturizers after showering unless your surgeon says it's okay.
If you weren't given a special cleanser, your normal soap is usually appropriate.
Should I Wash My Hair?
Yes, unless your surgeon tells you otherwise.
Clean hair is encouraged before surgery. After washing, avoid hair sprays, gels, oils, or styling products unless your surgical team has specifically approved them.
Can I Put On Lotion or Deodorant After Showering?
Usually not.
Many surgical centers recommend avoiding:
- Lotion
- Moisturizer
- Perfume
- Cologne
- Powder
- Deodorant
These products can interfere with skin preparation or monitoring equipment during surgery.
Not sure which personal care products are okay before surgery? Read Can I Wear Makeup, Lotion, Nail Polish, or Jewelry Before Surgery?
As you get ready on the morning of surgery, it's also important to know whether you can drink coffee before surgery.
What If I Forget to Shower?
Don't panic.
Tell your surgical team when you arrive. Depending on your procedure, they may provide additional cleansing before surgery or advise you on the next steps.
Avoid trying to "make up for it" by using products you weren't instructed to use.
When Should I Call My Surgeon?
Contact your surgeon if:
- You aren't sure whether to use antibacterial soap.
- You develop a rash, cut, or skin infection before surgery.
- You receive conflicting preparation instructions.
- You have questions about your preoperative shower.
Bottom Line
For most patients, showering before surgery is a simple but important part of preparing for a safe procedure. Follow your surgeon's instructions carefully, use any recommended antibacterial cleanser, and avoid applying products afterward unless you've been told they're okay.
Before heading to the hospital, make sure you know what to wear to surgery and what to expect on surgery day.
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