Below-Deck Hygiene: Because Swamp-Butt, Crotch-Rot, and Funk-in-the-Trunk Are For Real!

When our sweet tween and teen boys start to stink, there are generally 5 basic “hot zone” areas that contribute to that permeating smell – his unwashed hair, his un-deodorized pits, his sweaty feet, and of course the bum and groin combo. And while it’s easy to talk about good hygiene with the first 3 areas, it may feel more awkward to address that funk in the trunk (beyond telling him to take a shower) since he’s hit puberty/adolescence.  However, this is the crucial time for him to get on top of proper care and hygiene for his privates, as everything going on down there can contribute to multiple issues in addition to that smell.

The Problem

The two main changes that affect odor and other issues in the groin/bum area for boys in puberty and adolescence are increased sweat production and the growth of pubic hair.  These two factors can contribute to multiple down-south situations:

• Odor: The increased sweat gland activity mixed with the bacteria present in the groin and bum area makes a mighty odor cocktail. Add in the presence of pubic hair which further traps that sweat and bacteria, and you’ve got the definition of funky junk.

• Chafing and Irritation: A moist eco-system in his nether region can create chafing and irritation when skin rubs against skin or clothing repeatedly. This can cause discomfort and painful rashes if not addressed.

• Fungal and Bacterial Infections: The warm, moist environment of the groin is ideal for the growth of fungi and bacteria, leading to conditions like jock itch and bacterial infections.

• General Itchiness and Discomfort

 

The Solution

The good news is, taking care of down there is as easy as taking care of the rest of his body. In addition to encouraging him to keep his private area clean, there are several things he can do (and products he can use) to keep his low zone fresh, dry, and comfortable:

Daily Cleaning: Daily showers, focusing on thoroughly cleaning the private area with mild, fragrance-free soap. Encourage him to make sure he gets up in the crevices and the under-areas of his genitals and bum, where bacteria and sweat build up and create issues.

Anti-Chafing Solutions: Chafing can be a significant issue for boys who are active, boys who play sports, or in the summertime when heat and sweat are even more of an issue.  Using an anti-chafing stick such as this one from Happy Nuts can help reduce friction between his skin and clothing or skin-on-skin irritation (like his scrotum area).

Moisture Control: Keeping the private area dry is crucial for preventing fungal infections and odor, as well as overall comfort. Talc-free powders like Fresh Butt absorb excess moisture and help avoid the dreaded swamp-butt phenomenon (excessive bum sweat + bum bacteria = whew!).  It also helps with acne that can occur on the buttocks due to wetness and irritation.

Proper Underwear: Daily (or more if he is especially active) underwear changes are non-negotiable, but so is the type of underwear he is putting next to his bits.  Investing in high-quality, organic cotton underwear that is breathable and reduces moisture build-up is essential to keeping his privates healthy and safe. We love Nads organic cotton boxers (use code GOODGUYGIENE for 20% off!).

Toilet TLC: Proper cleaning up after going #2 is an essential factor in keeping odor at bay.  Ensure your son is wiping correctly and effectively – and not leaving any residue.  Moist wipes (we love Dude Wipes!) are a huge help and do a much better job of cleaning his bum than regular toilet paper.

And while we’re at it, how about talking about some toilet etiquette? If he shares a bathroom, things like using a pre-poop odor eliminator and lowering the toilet seat after he is done show respect for others and are great habits to instill now.  Loo Toilet Drops keep the entire bathroom smelling like a spa, no matter what he does to it. And hanging up a sign as a visual reminder to lower the seat and wash hands is always a good idea!

 

It’s Just Good Guygiene

Puberty and adolescence bring about significant changes in a boy’s body, making private area hygiene more important than ever. It’s on us to make sure he has the knowledge and tools he needs to maintain good below-the-belt care, and establish the skills to stay comfortable, confident, and healthy during this transformative time. So, grab some products, have that talk (preferably while driving or doing an activity, see here for tips on having hygiene conversations with your son), and equip him to keep his privates in tip-top shape!

 

Want to make it easy?  All these products are in our Good Guygiene August “Bits and Butts” personal care box for tween and teen boys – along with how-to’s and tips! He’ll love the great products just for him, and you’ll love that we did the shopping for you – finding all the great brands dedicated to making non-toxic products safe for young bodies.  And, our boxes are amazing conversation starters! Click here to sign him up – trust us, you’ll thank us later!