Using Mouthwash on Shabbos

Q. Is one permitted to use mouthwash and perfume on Shabbos?

A. In a previous Halacha Yomis we discussed the prohibition of molid rei’ach (causing the absorption of a fragrance or scent). Our current question revolves around whether this restriction applies to the human body as well. This is a matter of dispute among poskim. The Shevet Halevi (1:137) was asked whether using mouthwash on Shabbos is prohibited because of molid rei’ach. He notes that the Taz (511:8), Magen Avrohom (511:11) and Shulchan Aruch Harav (511:7) restrict washing hands with scented water on Shabbos because of molid rei’ach. Obviously, these poskim hold that molid rei’ach applies to the human body as well. However, the Mishnah Berurah (128:23) writes that many Acharonim did not accept this stringency of not using scented water on Shabbos. For example, the Chacham Tzvi (92) proves that molid rei’ach does not apply to the body, since Shulchan Aruch (OC 322:5) permits rubbing scented sticks between one's fingers to release the scent even though the fingers will absorb the fragrance. Accordingly, the Mishnah Berurah makes the following distinction. Adding scented oil to water on Shabbos is prohibited but washing one's hands with previously scented water is acceptable. Some poskim question whether the leniency of the Mishnah Berurah regarding handwashing with scented water applies to other parts of the body. Some suggest that there is room for greater leniency with respect to hands because the scent dissipates quickly (see Piskei Teshuvos 322:7). However, the Shevet Haleivi equates the entire body to hands and allows the use of mouthwash on Shabbos. Similarly, Shmiras Shabbos K’hilchaso (14:36) allows applying perfume on Shabbos (based on the Mishna Berurah), though he cautions against spraying it on clothing.

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The Gerald & Karin Feldhamer OU Kosher Halacha Yomis is dedicated to the memory of Rav Yisroel Belsky, zt"l, who served as halachic consultant for OU Kosher for more than 28 years; many of the responses in Halacha Yomis are based on the rulings of Rabbi Belsky. Subscribe to the Halacha Yomis daily email here.