No "Showers" in Space: Shubhanshu Shukla explains how astronauts stay clean on the International Space Station

Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla explains how astronauts stay fresh in space? (Image: X/@gagan_shux)

• Astronauts use sponge baths with special kits in space, not showers.
• Water is recycled on the ISS, recovering over 90% for reuse.
• Hygiene kits use rinse-free shampoo and soap to prevent floating water.

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Astronauts living in space may conduct experiments, but even simple daily routines like bathing become a challenge in microgravity. Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla recently revealed how astronauts maintain hygiene aboard the International Space Station.

He explained that there are no traditional showers in space. Instead, astronauts rely on specially designed hygiene kits and water-saving techniques that allow them to stay clean without wasting precious resources.

Why Astronauts cannot take showers in Space?

In space, water does not flow downward. Instead, it forms floating droplets that drift around the spacecraft. These floating blobs of water could interfere with sensitive electronics or air systems inside the station. Because of this risk, engineers at NASA designed the station without conventional showers.

Ever wondered how astronauts stay fresh in space? Of course you have — it's one of the questions I get asked most. So let's settle it once and for all. The short answer: there are no showers up here. The long answer: personal hygiene in microgravity is a surprisingly elegant… pic.twitter.com/E7k56ISpHO

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— Shubhanshu Shukla (@gagan_shux) March 5, 2026

The “sponge bath” astronauts use

To stay clean, astronauts use a special hygiene kit that allows them to perform what Shukla jokingly described as “the world’s most expensive sponge bath.” The process involves:

• Using a pre-packed washcloth containing disinfecting shampoo
• Adding a small amount of water from a sealed pouch
• Wiping the body using the cloth instead of rinsing with running water

Astronauts also use rinse-free shampoo and soap, which do not require washing off with large amounts of water. This method helps astronauts remain hygienic while avoiding floating water droplets inside the spacecraft.

No water is wasted in space

Water is one of the most valuable resources aboard the ISSnand every drop must be carefully managed. Used towels and moisture from hygiene activities are collected and processed by the station’s water recovery system.

This advanced recycling technology filters and purifies the water so it can be reused. In fact, the system can recover more than 90% of the water used aboard the station, turning it back into drinking water or other usable supplies.

Hygiene is essential during long missions

Astronauts often spend months living aboard the ISS, so maintaining personal hygiene is important for both health and comfort. Special hygiene solutions have been developed to ensure astronauts can stay clean without wasting water or creating hazards inside the spacecraft.

As space agencies prepare for longer missions to the Moon and Mars, innovations like these will play a crucial role in helping astronauts live and work safely far from Earth.