No Time to Shower? Then You Need These 8 Genius Morning Hacks

Updated: Feb. 24, 2024

If there are zero minutes to jump in the shower before heading out, use these household items strategically to make it look—and smell—like you did.

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iStock/İsmail-Çiydem

Baby wipes

If yesterday’s sweat is still clinging to your skin, whip out the baby wipes stat. Rub down the stinky areas, and then spritz a bit of antibacterial body odor spray on top. If this not-showering thing is a habit for you, consider investing in wipes designed just for this purpose. We like Yuni Shower Sheets—they’re super soft, plant-based, biodegradable, compostable, and they smell amazing. Bad smells, begone!

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Baby powder

Depending on the thickness and texture of your strands, second-day hair can look either fashionably unkempt or just plain oily. If the latter’s the case, rub a bit of baby powder onto your scalp to soak up the grease. If hectic mornings are business as usual for you, though, invest in a dry shampoo that will whisk away dirt and oil without leaving a powdery residue, like R+CO Death Valley Dry Shampoo.

Thinning Hair, Dandruff, Graying, and More: 16 Hair Mysteries Explained

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Apple cider vinegar

For greasy morning skin, first wash your face with a mild cleanser. After drying, pat on an apple cider vinegar toner (one part apple cider vinegar, two parts water) to purify and refresh. Bonus: ACV’s bacteria-fighting, pH-balancing properties will rid your body of unwanted odor, so feel free to rub it on any lingering smelly spots.

14 Ways Apple Cider Vinegar Could Benefit Your Health

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Witch hazel

Another amazing skin tonic? Witch hazel. Pour a small amount on a cotton pad and gently wipe your cheeks, forehead, chin, and nose to remove excess oil and sweat. Consider keeping a bottle at your desk at work to maintain an oil-free T-zone all day long.

These 9 Myths About Oily Skin Could Be Ruining Your Complexion

iStock/Christopher Ames

Tea tree oil

Dip your feet in a tea tree oil soak for three minutes to eliminate funky smells. Spritz a little deodorizer in your shoes for double odor prevention and protection.

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Essential oils

Certain diluted forms of essential oils can be applied directly to the skin for a long-lasting, natural fragrance. You can select oils that suit your taste, mood, and the occasion—take your pick from these 11 Essential Oils That Will Take Years Off Your Skin.

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Face scrub

An all-natural deep-cleansing face scrub will remove the dirt and grime that sits deep within your skin, leaving you with a clean and healthy glow—even without the shower.

10 Natural Face Cleansers You Can Make Yourself

iStock/Geo grafika

Fabric spray

To smell great sans shower, spray a few squirts of fabric refresher on clean clothes. Your outfit will feel extra soft, and smell deliciously fragrant, masking any remaining funk. To make your own fabric refresher spray, mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 2 cups of water and 10 drops of your favorite essential oil, then hake until combined.

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Originally Published in Reader's Digest