Long Hair and Bathing (Ghusl)

Q: What is the fatwa concerning women with long thick hair in the state of janaabah (impurity)?

A: When taking a Ghusl (bath), it will be compulsory to wet all the hair and to ensure that water has also reached the roots of the hair. If this is not done, the Ghusl will not be valid.

If the woman’s hair is tied into plaits then it is not compulsory upon her to open the plaits and wet the hair when bathing. She must just ensure that water reaches the roots of her hair. However, hair that is already loose at the time of Ghusl must be washed completely. Failing to do so will render the Ghusl invalid.

Mufti Siraj Desai