Conditions for Valid Wudu (Ablution)
1. Being a Muslim
Wudu is only valid when performed by someone who is a Muslim.
2. Being of Sound Mind (Not Insane)
A person who is mentally unstable—due to insanity, intoxication, or unconsciousness—cannot perform valid wudu.
3. Reaching the Age of Tamyiz (Able to Distinguish Right from Wrong)
This generally refers to children around the age of 7 who can understand the purpose and meaning of wudu.
4. Intending to Perform Wudu for the Sake of Allah
The intention (niyyah) must be made when washing the face, and it should be purely for Allah—not just to refresh or clean oneself.
5. Using Pure and Purifying Water (Mutlaq Water)
The water used must be clean and uncontaminated. It should not be mixed with substances that change its original characteristics (color, taste, or smell).
6. Nothing Preventing Water from Reaching the Skin
Examples include paint, glue, nail polish, or thick dirt that forms a barrier on the skin.
7. Free from Minor Impurity (Hadath Asghar)
Wudu is invalid if the person is still in a state of minor impurity, such as not having fully relieved themselves properly.
8. Prayer Time Has Entered (for Ma’dhur)
For those who are always in a state of impurity (e.g., chronic incontinence), wudu is only valid after the time for prayer has begun, and it only applies for that specific prayer time.
9. Believing the Obligatory Acts of Wudu Are Indeed Obligatory
If someone believes the essential parts (fard) of wudu are merely recommended (sunnah), their wudu is invalid because it contradicts the correct Islamic belief.
10. Not Blindly Following Other Schools Without Understanding
Following another madhhab (school of thought) without proper knowledge, or mixing rulings from different madhhabs, can lead to invalid wudu.
11. Not Leaving Islam While Performing Wudu
If someone apostatizes (leaves Islam) during wudu, their acts of worship—including that wudu—become invalid.
12. Not Doubting Any Part of the Wudu Process
Doubts about whether one completed a required act or did it in the proper order can render the wudu invalid (e.g., unsure if the hands were washed properly).