We initially ran this episode in July 2018. But we've gained a lot of followers since then and tween & teen boys have not suddenly gotten better at personal hygiene in the interim. If you're sick of fighting with your boy about hygiene, this episode is a must-listen.

Photo by Kasey Eriksen via Flickr

Have a boy who hates to shower?

You are not alone!

When a mom recently asked the Building Boys Facebook group, “Anyone else have a teenage boy who hates to shower?” she was quickly inundated with support and sympathy.

Personal hygiene, it seems, is not a priority for most tween and teen boys.

Lots of moms said they’re dealing with the exact same issue. Others said that their boys spend a lot of time in the shower, but come out with unwashed, still-dirty hair.

Is this lack of interest in appearance and, um, smell, merely a stage that will resolve without intervention?

Or should parents and teachers take a more active role in teaching and reinforcing hygiene habits?

Turns out, the best approach is actually a combination of those two strategies.

In this episode, Jen & Janet discuss:

WHY some boys seems oblivious to their own stench

The essential role of 5th grade teachers in the hygiene battle

How colored liquid soap can help boys shower effectively

“Man soap” vs. “girly soap”

Axe bombs (Don’t know what that is? Listen in at 12:41!)

When — and how — to have the hygiene talk

When boys should start using deodorant – & how to make sure your boys use it regularly (Listen carefully for Jen’s pro tips!)

The role of role-modeling in personal hygiene

How to get the stench out of your boys’ gym clothes and sports uniforms

Tooth brushing (Spoiler: Instill good tooth brushing habits when you boys are young!)

Hair care

How to combine male bonding and hygiene rituals (not as weird as it sounds!)

BEING NEUTRAL!

Links we mentioned (or should have) in this episode:

Boying Up: How to be Brave, Bold and Brilliant. by Mayim Bialik — A great book to leave laying around the house. Includes detailed hygiene instructions for boys.

Why Do Teenagers Smell Bad? Study Suggests They May Be Unable to Detect Own Scent — report of Danish research

ON BOYS on YouTube -- watch uncut versions of our conversations

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