How to Clean Rudraksha and Maintain It

How to Clean, Energize & Maintain Rudraksha

How to clean Rudraksha is a common question among many Rudraksha beginners. This article aims to give a comprehensive guide on how to care for your Rudraksha. 

Why Rudraksha Maintenance Matters?

Rudraksha beads are sacred tools — not just ornaments. Keeping them clean, conditioned, and energetically aligned will have the following benefits. 

• Preserves their spiritual vibration.

• Ensures long-lasting physical integrity.

• Keeps energy flow pure and uninterrupted.

Whether you're wearing a single bead or a full mala, regular care helps the Rudraksha serve its highest purpose.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Rudraksha

Materials Needed

• A clean bowl of water (room temperature water, as hot water can damage the beads).

• Soft cloth or tissue.

• Mustard oil or clarified ghee or olive oil.

• New, clean, soft-bristled toothbrush.
  
  

Recommended Cleaning Procedure - 1-2 times a month or whenever you feel heaviness when wearing your Rudraksha

1. Soak the Bead
   Place the Rudraksha in water for 30–60 minutes.
   This loosens any dirt or sweat residue.

2. Brush Gently
   Use a soft toothbrush to scrub the bead — especially around the mukhis (lines).
   Be gentle so the natural grooves stay intact.

3. Dry Thoroughly
   Wipe it gently with a soft cloth and air-dry in a shaded space (not under direct sun).

4. Apply Natural Oil
   Once dry, rub a small amount of the oil or ghee over the bead using your fingers.
    This nourishes the bead and prevents cracking.

Recommended Cleaning Procedure - Every 6 months

1. Soak the Bead in Ghee
   Soak your Rudraksha bead(s) or mala in ghee overnight or up to 24 hours. 

2. Rinse the bead in Water: Soak it in water for 30-60 mins & rinse it with water

3. Brush Gently
   Use a soft toothbrush to scrub the bead — especially around the mukhis (lines).
   Be gentle so the natural grooves stay intact.

4. Dry Thoroughly
    Wipe it gently with a soft cloth and air-dry in a shaded space (not under direct sun).

5. Apply Natural Oil
   Once dry, rub a small amount of the oil or ghee over the bead using your fingers.
   This nourishes the bead and prevents cracking.

How to Energize Rudraksha

It is traditional to energize Rudraksha before wearing it — especially for the first time. The following lists the steps on how to energize it. 

1. Clean the Bead (as above).

2. Place on a clean white cloth or puja thali.

3. Chant “Om Namah Shivaya” or the specific Beej Mantra of the Mukhi 108 times.

4. Sprinkle with Gangajal or pure water.

5. Offer incense or a diya (oil lamp) as a sign of respect.

6. Wear on a Monday morning, or an astrologically auspicious day.

This connects your intention with the Rudraksha's energy.

However, please do note that there are more elaborate energization rituals such as Rudraksha Abhishek which needs to be done with a priest or guru. 

How to Condition Rudraksha Beads

Conditioning means protecting and nurturing your Rudraksha physically. The following are the steps on how to condition rudraksha. 

• Once a month, soak in water for 30-60 mins.

• After drying, apply natural oil or ghee.

• Wipe off excess oil and store in a clean cotton pouch.
  
  

This process keeps the bead supple and prevents drying, cracking, or fungal buildup.

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How to Store Rudraksha Safely

When not wearing your Rudraksha store in the following ways.

• Store in a clean, natural fiber pouch (cotton/silk).

• Keep in your altar or sacred space.

• Avoid high humidity or direct sunlight.

• Do not store with metals, perfumes, or synthetic items.

Proper storage ensures your bead retains its energy and lasts for many years.

Tips for Long-Term Rudraksha Care

• Clean monthly or after heavy sweat exposure.

• Always apply oil or ghee after cleaning.

• Avoid wearing during physical intimacy, funeral rites or when visiting hospital.

• Remove before bathing with soap or chlorinated water.

These practices help you maintain the purity and power of your Rudraksha.

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Dos and Don’ts of Rudraksha Usage

DOs

• Chant mantras when touching the bead.

• Wear on clean body and clean clothes.

• Use Rudraksha for meditation or prayer.

• Always treat your Rudraksh with respect.

• For wearing Rudrakshas that you were worn by your late ancestors or parents, please do special purification and prayers before wearing them.

• Do complete payment when purchasing a Rudraksha, unless it is a gift.

• For optimal effects from Rudrakshas, please familiarise yourself with recommended Beej Mantras for different Mukhis of Rudraksh as stated in the Shiv Puran.
  
  

DON’Ts

• Don’t share your Rudraksha with others.

• Don’t use chemical cleaners or soaps.

• Don’t wear while drinking alcohol or eating non-veg (optional, traditional).

• Do not wear while having physical intimacy.

• Do not steal Rudrakshas, their effect will not be beneficial.

• Don’t wear while visiting low energy environments (e.g. funeral, hospital, etc).

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