Teaching kids wudu, step by step
A simple walkthrough to read together at the sink, with the order kids can actually remember.
4 minute read · SunnahPanda
Wudu is the washing we do before we pray. It cleans our body, and it helps us get ready on the inside too. The Prophet ﷺ told us that when a Muslim makes wudu, small sins wash away with the water.
Little ones learn wudu best by copying. Do it side by side, say each step out loud, and don't worry about getting everything perfect on day one.
The steps
- 1
Intend and say Bismillah
Make the intention in your heart that you are making wudu for Allah, then say Bismillah.
- 2
Wash your hands
Wash both hands up to the wrists, three times. Get between the fingers.
- 3
Rinse your mouth
Take water into your mouth, swirl it around and spit it out, three times.
- 4
Rinse your nose
Sniff a little water into your nose and blow it out with your left hand, three times.
- 5
Wash your face
Wash your whole face, from your hairline to your chin and from ear to ear, three times.
- 6
Wash your arms
Wash your right arm from the fingertips up to and including the elbow, three times, then your left.
- 7
Wipe your head and ears
Wet your hands and wipe over your head, then wipe inside and behind your ears.
- 8
Wash your feet
Wash your right foot up to and including the ankle, three times, then your left. Don't forget between the toes!
SunnahPanda tip
Washing three times is the sunnah. Washing each part once, properly, still counts, which is handy to know on busy mornings.
What breaks wudu?
Going to the toilet, passing wind and falling into a deep sleep all break wudu, and you'll need to make it again before you pray. The schools of fiqh differ on a few other things, so ask your local imam or teacher which view your family follows.
Make it stick
- Print the Wudu Step by Step sheet and stick the finished one by the bathroom sink.
- Give each step a little action or a rhyme, and let your child lead it next time.
- Praise the effort, not the splashes on the floor.
Spotted something that needs correcting, or follow a different view? We want these guides to be right. Get in touch and we'll take a look.