Preparation for Washing the Deceased (Ghusl)

Kafan and Ghusl Materials

The following materials are needed for washing the deceased (Ghusl) and for shrouding (Kafan) after the Ghusl.

  • White Unstitched Sheets (7ft x 7ft): three for males; five for females
    • Remember to cut the stitched seams with a pair of scissors.
    • Also cut 3 thin strips to use as ties for the tying the Shroud and holding it in place
  • Camphor, Sidr
  • Non-Alcoholic perfumes (Attar)
  • Warm water
  • Soap
  • Gloves
  • Wash-cloths
  • Cardboard box to place the body in, after Ghusl

People who can and should give Ghusl

When a Muslim passes away, it is the responsibility of his family or other Muslims to wash him according to the Islamic rites of washing the deceased. Two or three persons may perform the washing.  The person(s) who may wash the deceased should:

  • Be a trustworthy, and honest adult Muslim(s).
  • Know the Islamic way of washing the dead and be able to carry out the washing.
  • Not make any comment on the body of the deceased.

GUIDELINES:

  • Close relations are encouraged for washing the body.
    • If the deceased is a male, then ONLY males should wash him.
    • If the deceased is a female, then ONLY females should wash her.
  • For a married person, the spouse may perform the washing.
  • For a child, either males or females may do the washing.