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Questions and answers

Can I take a shower

Yes, in most cases you can, and it is even recommended: daily cleanliness lowers infection risk.

Last updated: ~1 min read
A clean, warm shower
Figure 1.A clean, warm shower

01Short answer

During treatment a daily shower or wash keeps the skin clean and lowers infection risk. Use warm water, mild soap and a clean soft towel, and pat the skin dry rather than rubbing. If you feel weak or dizzy, a shower seat, a non-slip mat and someone nearby keep you safe. With low platelets, avoid rough sponges and razors. If you have a central line, follow your team’s rules for keeping it dry.

02Simple explanation

A shower is a simple way to protect against infection.

Warm water, mild soap, gentle drying.

03Scientific explanation

Intact skin keeps its barrier function; dry, cracked skin lets germs in more easily, so a moisturiser can help too.

Some transplant centres recommend special antiseptic washes; this varies by centre.

04What happens in the body?

How

A warm shower once a day. Pay attention to armpits, groin and skin folds. A clean towel every time.

Safety

If you feel weak, wash sitting down, do not lock the door and have someone nearby. Avoid very hot water, which can make you dizzy.

A soft towel and soap
Figure 2.A soft towel and soap

Special cases

With low platelets, use a soft sponge and an electric shaver instead of a razor. Show any rash or sore to your team.

A non-slip mat and a seat
Figure 3.A non-slip mat and a seat

05A safe shower

Four steps.

Check how you feel — Ask for help if dizzy.1Check how you feelAsk for help if dizzy.
Warm water — Not too hot.2Warm waterNot too hot.
Mild soap — No harsh products.3Mild soapNo harsh products.
Pat dry — No rubbing, a clean towel.4Pat dryNo rubbing, a clean towel.
Clean skinInfection risk goes down.
ComfortA shower is refreshing.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
HowA warm shower once a day. Pay attention to armpits, groin and skin folds. A clean towel every time.
SafetyIf you feel weak, wash sitting down, do not lock the door and have someone nearby. Avoid very hot water, which can make you dizzy.
Special casesWith low platelets, use a soft sponge and an electric shaver instead of a razor. Show any rash or sore to your team.

07Key terms

Skin barrier
The layer of skin that keeps germs out.
Antiseptic
A product that reduces germs.
Thrombocytopenia
A low platelet count.

08Key points

  • Showering is allowed and helpful.
  • Warm water and mild soap.
  • Safety matters when you feel weak.
  • Protect your line.

09Frequently asked questions

Can I take a bath?

Some centres do not allow baths during neutropenia; ask.

Can I wash my hair daily?

Yes, with a mild shampoo.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Can I take a bath?

  2. Can I wash my hair daily?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Infection and Neutropenia during Cancer Treatment
  2. NHS. How to wash your hands
  3. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Bleeding and Bruising (Thrombocytopenia) and Cancer Treatment
  4. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Treatment (PDQ®) — Patient Version
  5. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Treatment (PDQ®) — Patient Version
  6. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)
  7. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Leukemia
  8. MedlinePlus. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
  9. NHS. Sepsis
  10. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Bone marrow aspiration
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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