Keeping a prayer corner and sajadah fresh

Cleanliness comes first

In the Shafi’i school followed by most Muslims in Singapore, a clean body, clothing and place of prayer is a condition of prayer. A mat is not strictly required on a clean floor, but scholars recommend one where available because it removes doubt about cleanliness (Mufti of the Federal Territory, Malaysia). There is also a well-known hadith that mosques should be kept clean and perfumed (Sunan Abi Dawud 455) — a lovely inspiration for a home prayer corner, though it is about mosques rather than a rule for mats.

Caring for the sajadah

• Check the care label. Cotton and polyester mats can usually take a cold, gentle cycle or a hand wash with mild detergent — no bleach.
• Spot-clean velvet, silk or heavily embroidered mats instead of machine washing.
• Air-dry flat or on a line, never in a tumble dryer, and make sure it is completely dry before folding — damp fabric is where musty smells and mould start.
• Between washes, shake it out and air it in a ventilated spot.

Fragrance and alcohol

Scholars differ on alcohol in perfume. In its public answer, MUIS notes the difference of opinion and states the general view that perfume without intoxicating levels of alcohol, not meant to be consumed, is generally considered permissible; it also explains that synthetic alcohol is typically considered pure while alcohol from fermentation is generally treated as impure. If you prefer to avoid the question entirely, choose a fragrance whose label shows no alcohol.