This is what happens when you do not clean the belly button for a month

In more severe cases, the trapped debris can harden into what’s known as a navel stone (or omphalolith), which can be painful and may need to be removed by a healthcare professional, she said, adding that the moist environment can also encourage bacterial or yeast overgrowth, occasionally leading to an infection.

Avoid harsh scrubbing or using anything sharp. (Source: Freepik)

Elaborating on why it is essential to keep the belly button clean, Dr Sharma said that it prevents this buildup, reduces the risk of irritation or infection, and helps maintain healthy skin. “It’s the same principle as cleaning behind your ears or between your toes – anywhere sweat and skin cells can get trapped deserves regular attention,” she said.

How can you keep it clean?

According to Dr Sharma, the best way to clean it is simple and gentle:

• Use warm water and mild soap in the shower. Clean your navel with your fingertips or a soft washcloth.
• Rinse well. Soap residue can irritate the skin if left inside the navel.
• Dry it thoroughly. Moisture left behind can encourage yeast growth. Pat gently with a towel or let it air dry.

For deeper cleaning (if needed), Dr Sharma recommended using a cotton swab lightly dipped in warm water or a bit of gentle soap to help reach inside deeper navels. “Avoid harsh scrubbing or using anything sharp. If there’s redness, pain, odour that doesn’t go away, or discharge, the belly button may be infected,” she said. That’s the point of seeing a healthcare professional rather than trying to treat it yourself.

Regular, simple hygiene keeps the belly button healthy and prevents the month-long buildup that can turn it into a tiny but troublesome problem.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.