Pumice stone for dry feet before mikveh

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September 30, 2014

Question

When preparing for the mikva, should one use a pumice stone on their feet? Are dry feet a hatzitza? I find that there is nothing hanging off dry feet, but once I use a pumice stone the dry skin starts peeling and makes more of a problem.

Answer

You do not need to use a pumice stone for dry skin on your feet, particularly if using it causes your skin to peel.

However, if you regularly use a pumice stone as part of your usual foot care routine, independent of mikveh, then you should also use it when preparing for mikveh.

Dry feet are not a chatzitzah. Hard skin also is not a chatzitzah, but it is customary to soak your feet in warm water during your preparation (and/or use moisturizing cream on your feet for a few days prior to mikveh) to soften any hard skin before immersion.

This response was updated on 16 November, 2025.