In memory of Chaya Mirel bat R’ Avraham

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In memory of Chaya Mirel bat R' Avraham

Mikveh preparation in the morning
April 8, 2005

Question

I will hopefully be ready to immerse in the mikvah on Monday, when I am scheduled for a very busy day at work. I seem to remember a Rav once told me it's preferable to bathe close to the immersion, but I think it would relieve much stress for me to bathe in the morning, before I leave for work, rather than save both the bath and shower for when I reach the mikvah, or to try to rush home before shekiah to bathe.
In general, is it permissible to take a bath in the morning, leaving the showering for when I arrive at the mikvah? Or must the bath be done closer to the immersion?
Thank you for your advice!

Answer

Not only is it permissible to begin preparations for mikveh earlier in the day, but some halachic authorities prefer it. All authorities recommend preparing early if your preparations would otherwise be rushed.

In this case, you would perform all your preparations in the morning. Immediately prior to mikveh immersion, you would shower, comb your hair, remove any chatzitzot (such as jewelry), and visually inspect yourself.

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