Warm salt water soaks help remove dried discharge and lymph secretions as well it will also relieve itching. Use 1/4 teaspoon salt per 8 ounces of water. There is no need to clean your piercing after soaking in salt water; however, soaking should not replace cleaning. A disposable cup is suggested. If you feel a stinging sensation or your piercing bleeds while soaking discontinue soaking until the piercing has begun to heal (usually 1-2 weeks).

DO NOT use Betadine (povidone-iodine solution), isopropyl rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or Hibiclens to clean your piercing. DO NOT use antibiotic ointments. Antibiotic products are hyphenate contraindicated for use in puncture wounds and for the extended period of time required for healing a piercing. These products do not clean the piercing.

The most frequent cause of infection is touching the piercing or jewellery with unwashed hands or contact with unclean items such as clothing, bedding, and hair.