Practical guide
Showers, laundry and hygiene
Find a shower when possible, plus practical ways to stay cleaner when a shower is not available.
Need current local options?
Look for an actual shower first
- Day centers, shelters, outreach programs, YMCAs or community centers, campgrounds, and some faith-based organizations may have showers available.
- Some locations require check-in, an appointment, a small fee, or arrival during a specific service window.
- Ask whether towels, soap, shampoo, razors, feminine-hygiene products, clean clothing, or laundry supplies are available.
If you cannot get a shower today
- A cheap package of body wipes or unscented baby wipes can help you clean your face, neck, underarms, feet, and other areas until you can shower.
- A private or family restroom can sometimes give you enough privacy to wash your face, hands, and other exposed areas at the sink. Use only restrooms you are allowed to use, clean up after yourself, and avoid occupying the restroom longer than necessary.
- A washcloth, small towel, soap, and a bottle of water can provide a basic wipe-down when you have a private and appropriate place to do it.
- Changing into clean socks and underwear can make a major difference even when a full shower is not possible.
- Avoid bathing in unsafe water, polluted water, or places where washing is prohibited.
Laundry when money is tight
- Ask shelters, day centers, churches, outreach programs, and laundromats whether they offer free laundry days, vouchers, or machines for clients.
- If you only have a few items, hand-washing them in an appropriate sink or basin and allowing them to dry completely may work in a pinch where permitted.
- Prioritize socks, underwear, and clothing worn closest to the skin if you cannot wash everything at once.
If you still cannot find what you need
Call 211 for Oklahoma community-resource referrals. For mental-health or substance-use crisis support, call or text 988. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing an emergency, call 911.