Cleaning a new tattoo correctly is one of the most important things you can do in the first two weeks of healing. It removes plasma, excess ink and bacterial build-up from the wound surface, reducing infection risk and supporting healthy healing. Done incorrectly, cleaning can damage the tattoo or introduce bacteria. This step-by-step guide covers everything you need to know.
Step-by-step: how to clean a new tattoo
Wash your hands thoroughly first
Before touching the tattoo at any point, wash your hands with antibacterial soap for at least 20 seconds. Rinse thoroughly and dry on a clean towel. Your hands carry bacteria that can cause infection when transferred to an open wound. This step is non-negotiable every single time you clean, moisturise or check the tattoo throughout the healing period.
Wet the tattooed area with lukewarm water
Run lukewarm water gently over the tattoo. The temperature matters: hot water increases irritation, dilates blood vessels and can cause ink to leach from the wound before it has anchored. Cold water is acceptable. Never use direct high-pressure spray on the tattooed area, particularly in the first week. Let water run over the area indirectly if using a shower head.
Apply fragrance-free soap with clean fingertips
Squeeze a small amount of fragrance-free, unscented, mild soap into your clean palm. Lather it gently in your hands. Apply the lather to the tattoo using only your fingertips, using light circular motions. The goal is to remove plasma, dried blood, excess ink and any build-up from the surface. Never use a washcloth, loofah, sponge or flannel on a healing tattoo as these are too abrasive and can carry bacteria.
Rinse completely until no soap remains
Rinse the tattooed area thoroughly with lukewarm water until all soap is removed. Soap residue left on the skin is an irritant and can cause inflammation. Run clean water over the area gently until the skin feels clean and the water runs clear. Do not rush this step.
Pat completely dry with a clean paper towel
After rinsing, pat the tattooed area completely dry using a clean paper towel. Never rub. Rubbing creates friction on healing skin, can displace forming scabs and leaves fibres behind. Paper towels are preferable to cloth towels as they are single-use and cannot harbour bacteria from previous use. Allow the tattoo to air dry for five to ten minutes after patting before applying any product.
Apply a thin layer of moisturiser once dry
Once the skin is completely dry, apply a pea-sized amount of fragrance-free aftercare moisturiser using clean fingertips. Spread as a thin layer across the tattoo. The layer should absorb fully within a few minutes. If the skin looks shiny or feels greasy after application, you have used too much. Gently blot away any excess with a clean paper towel.
How often to clean a new tattoo
| Healing stage | Cleaning frequency |
|---|---|
| Days 1 to 5 (active wound phase) | 2 to 3 times daily. Morning, evening and once midday if the tattoo looks shiny or feels uncomfortable. |
| Days 5 to 14 (peeling phase) | 2 times daily. Morning and evening. Do not over-wash during peeling as excessive washing dries the skin. |
| Weeks 2 to 4 (milky settling phase) | Once daily, typically after an evening shower. Reduce frequency as the skin heals and requires less active management. |
| After sweating or dirt exposure | Clean immediately after any activity that causes sweating or introduces dirt to the tattooed area, regardless of your regular schedule. |
What not to use when cleaning
Never use hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol or antiseptic sprays on a healing tattoo. These kill bacteria but also destroy the new skin cells the tattoo needs to heal, delay the healing process and can cause permanent damage to the ink. Avoid any soap with fragrance, dyes, heavy moisturising agents, scrubbing particles or alcohol. Avoid antibacterial wipes or pre-moistened cloths as these typically contain alcohol or chemical preservatives that irritate healing skin. Simple, plain, fragrance-free liquid soap applied with clean fingertips is the correct tool for every cleaning session throughout the healing period.
Questions about cleaning and aftercare after your session?
Our Leighton Buzzard artists give specific aftercare guidance at the end of every session and are always available to help.
Aftercare AdviceFor full aftercare guidance and studio contact details, Visit our tattoo aftercare page for full guidance from our Leighton Buzzard studio.
More from the Tattoo Aftercare Guide
This article is part of our Tattoo Aftercare Guide, covering every cleaning and healing question clients ask after getting tattooed. Browse every aftercare guide at our Tattoo Aftercare Guide hub.
Explore related topics including moisturising frequency, showering and the complete aftercare routine. Find every aftercare guide at our Tattoo Aftercare Guide hub.