Bleach should not be used for mikveh preparation. Any stain that cannot be removed with soap and water does not pose a barrier to immersion, as it has no independent physical substance and most women are not particular about what is left after cleaning.

The hair should be combed through once to remove tangles. It should be gone over one more time just prior to immersion.

If one takes a bath and goes over the whole body with fingers, a sponge, or a cloth, then that takes care of any dirt. A visual inspection prior to mikveh serves as a double check on not missing anything. What cannot then be seen on inspection does not interfere with immersion.

We appreciate the sensitive nature of your question regarding OCD. Based on your questions, there would seem to be a possibility that you have some OCD tendencies in this area. If you are able to accept our answers above, that could be an indication that your situation might improve without therapy. If it is too difficult for you, that could be an indication that you might benefit from therapy.

OCD can be very difficult to live with. If a woman can overcome her initial reluctance to pursue therapy, she may succeed in reaping the benefits of the therapy for a lifetime. Short-term cognitive behavioral therapy is often effective for OCD.

Please write back with any further questions.

2024: Please see our article on OCD and Niddah Observance, and our brochure “What are you feeling?!” on mikveh-related stress and anxiety.