𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻'𝘀 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗶𝘁𝘀 (372)

The Ruling on Dirt Under the Fingernails and Its Effect on the Validity of Wudū’ Question: The questioner asks: What is the ruling on the dirt that accumulates beneath the fingernails? Is the wudū' valid, or does such dirt prevent water from reaching the skin? Sheikh Yahya hafidahullah: One should trim their fingernails and not allow them to grow beyond forty days, as reported in the Sunnah from Anas (may Allāh be pleased with him). When the nails are properly maintained, dirt does not accumulate beneath them, and they remain clean, allowing water to reach the skin. A person is not required to insert something under the nails to extract whatever might be beneath them. In summary, performing wudū' while ensuring water reaches the necessary parts is sufficient, and wudū' is valid. Beware of obsessive doubts.