Ramadan 2026: Is it allowed to use miswak while fasting?

Islamic scholars have explained that using miswak while fasting is allowed. They say this based on authentic Islamic teachings and the opinions of well-known scholars. However, they advise being careful when using toothpaste or tooth powder during fasting.

Hazrat Aamir bin Rabiah (RA) reported that he saw Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) using miswak many times while fasting (Sunan al-Tirmidhi: 725). Because of this narration, Islamic jurists say that using miswak during fasting hours is permissible.

According to Hanafi scholars, using miswak is not disliked for a fasting person. It does not matter if the miswak is dry or fresh. Allama Zainuddin Ibn Nujaym Hanafi wrote in Al-Bahr al-Ra’iq that a person can use miswak before or after midday, even if it has been slightly wet. In the same way, Allama Nizamuddin mentioned in Fatawa Alamgiri that there is no problem in using a fresh green miswak while fasting.

However, scholars also give an important warning. If any small piece, fiber, or moisture from the miswak goes into the throat and is swallowed, the fast will break. Imam Yahya bin Sharaf al-Nawawi clearly stated that swallowing fibers from a wet miswak invalidates the fast by agreement of scholars.

Imam Ahmed Raza Qadri also said in Fatawa Razawiyyah that using miswak is a Sunnah and can be done at any time, even in the afternoon. But he advised people not to chew it too much, as this may release small pieces or strong taste. He also suggested cleaning between the teeth before the fast begins to avoid problems later. He discouraged the use of tooth powder (manjan) while fasting.

Scholars explain that miswak is different from toothpaste and tooth powder. Toothpaste and powders have strong flavors and substances that can easily go down the throat. Because of this risk, scholars say it is better to avoid them during fasting.

In short, scholars agree that miswak can be used while fasting, as long as a person is careful not to swallow anything. Toothpaste and tooth powder, however, should be avoided as a precaution.