What to Expect at a Traditional Moroccan Hammam

There are two main kinds of hammam, and the experience differs between them. A neighbourhood (public) hammam is communal and simple. It is a place locals use regularly, and the setting is usually plain and practical. A spa hammam is booked ahead and often adds extras such as a massage.

Public hammams are usually gender-separated. Some have two sections, and others open to women and men at different hours. Schedules vary, so confirm the hours before you go.

The tradition is often described as a blend of Roman communal bathing and Islamic ideas of physical and spiritual purification. Accounts of its history vary, so take that as a loose picture rather than a precise timeline.

• Neighbourhood hammam: communal, simple, part of daily life.
• Spa hammam: booked in advance, with staff who guide you, and sometimes a massage.
• Tip: first-timers may feel more at ease in a spa hammam, where each step is explained as you go.

The basic rule is simple: it is a shared space, so be a considerate guest. Speak softly, move calmly and give other people room. Many people go to relax, so a quiet voice goes a long way.

Photography inside is widely described as not allowed, so leave your phone in your bag. If you are unsure about anything, ask. That includes how much to uncover, where to sit and what the attendant will do.

Entry and tipping customs vary from place to place, so ask locally rather than guessing. Staff are used to first-time visitors and are usually happy to explain.

• Speak softly and respect other people's space.
• Keep your phone put away.
• Ask before doing anything you are unsure about.
• Rinse your bench or spot when you finish.
• Keep your things off the floor, using a hook, bag or bucket.

Attire is where sources disagree. Some mention swimwear or a fouta wrap as normal, while others say underwear is typical. There is no single rule, so check with staff before you go, and choose what you feel comfortable in.

Some hammams provide items and some do not, so ask in advance. For a public hammam, a typical packing list looks like this:

• A towel
• Flip-flops
• Black soap, see what Moroccan beldi soap is
• A kessa glove, see the kessa glove guide
• A change of clothes
• Possibly a bucket
• Optional extras: a hair tie, a water bottle and a light moisturising oil for afterwards

The order is usually the same: steam, black soap, kessa glove, rinse. Clay and oil are optional extras. Here is what each stage tends to involve.

Steam

You sit in the warm room for a while so the skin softens. There is no need to rush. Many people use this time to simply sit and settle in.

Black soap

Beldi soap is usually described as olive-based, with a soft, paste-like texture. Sources differ on added oils, so there is no single recipe to quote. Scented styles exist too, such as eucalyptus beldi soap. The soap is spread over the body and left for a few minutes.

Kessa glove

The kessa is a rough glove used for exfoliation. In a public hammam an attendant often does this for you. Gentle pressure is normal, and if it feels too firm, say so. You can ask for a lighter hand at any time.

Rinse, clay and rest

You rinse with warm water, then often finish with cooler water. Some people add ghassoul, a mineral clay described as coming from the Atlas Mountains, and a little oil afterwards. Both are optional.

Finish by resting and drinking water. Take your time getting dressed.

Give yourself a quiet moment afterwards. Rest, stay warm and avoid rushing straight back into a busy day. Part of the appeal is the slower pace.

A light touch afterwards is traditional. A mist of natural distilled rose water feels fresh and simple on skin that has just been warmed and rinsed. If you like a little colour once you are dressed, a touch of Aker Fassi lip and cheek stain is a traditional Moroccan finishing touch. Our guide on how to use Aker Fassi shows how to apply it.

A bit of housekeeping helps too. Keep wet items separate from dry ones, and let your kessa glove dry fully between uses.

You can recreate the mood of the hammam at home with warm water, a calm hour and the right tools. Our guide to the full at-home hammam ritual covers it step by step.

For the exfoliation step, the Aker Fassi and turmeric body scrub is a natural fit in a home routine. It is a body scrub made for the moment when you would otherwise reach for the kessa.

Browse the Hammam Ritual collection for soaps and tools. Before you buy, read how to choose beldi soap.