How to Take a Bath in the Sink

Sometimes finding a shower or bath tub isn't always possible, especially if you're camping, doing outdoor labor or find yourself temporarily homeless. If you have access to clean running water, however, taking a "bird bath" can keep you smelling fresh, looking good and feeling your best. It might not be the most comfortable or easiest way to clean yourself, but you'll feel better than not having bathed at all.

Splash warm water on your face and neck, lather the soap and wash your face and neck, either with a wet washcloth or with your hands.

Soak the washcloth in lukewarm water and gently wring it. Rub the washcloth all over your body to moisten your skin.

Lather the soap and apply it to your body, focusing on places that tend to collect bacteria, such as the underarm area, inner thighs, genital area, buttocks and behind your ears.

Rinse the washcloth, wring it and scrub your body with it, making sure you get all the soap off your skin. Rinse the washcloth again, wring it and repeat as necessary. Dry yourself off with a towel.

Fill the plastic cup with warm water and turn off the faucet. Bend over the sink, making sure your head is close to the bottom of the basin. Pour the water over your head. Repeat until your hair is very wet.

Apply shampoo and lather it. Rinse by pouring a cup of warm water over your hair. Repeat until you've rinsed away all the shampoo. Apply conditioner, if desired, then lather and rinse. Towel-dry your hair or use a hair dryer.