To clean your belly button properly:

• For an innie belly button:
  1. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean inside the belly button. Replace the swab if it becomes dirty.
  2. Rinse the area with a fresh swab dipped in water to avoid dryness caused by alcohol.
  3. After your shower, dry the belly button thoroughly with a clean swab or towel corner.
  4. Avoid putting lotion inside the belly button to prevent bacterial growth.
• For an outie belly button:
  1. During your shower, gently scrub the belly button area with a washcloth and soap, then rinse.
  2. Thoroughly dry after showering.
  3. Apply lotion on the outside skin if desired.
• For pierced belly buttons (healed):
  1. Clean as you would for an innie or outie.
  2. Additionally, wash the pierced area with a cotton ball soaked in a saline solution (1/4 teaspoon sea salt in 8 ounces boiled and cooled water) or use isotonic saline solution.
  3. Follow the piercer's instructions for a recent piercing.

General tips:

• Use mild, unscented soap to avoid irritation.
• Clean regularly but avoid over-cleaning which can irritate the skin.
• Thorough drying is essential to prevent infection since moisture can breed bacteria.
• If there are signs of infection (redness, swelling, pain, discharge), consult a healthcare professional.