How to say “you have bad hygiene” professionally
Why it can fall flat
“you have bad hygiene”
Saying “you have bad hygiene” can leave a coworker humiliated and defensive, because it judges the whole person. You likely just want to tell them kindly and privately about one specific thing they can fix.
Say this instead
- 01
Hi Charlie, this is awkward to text, but I've noticed some body odor when we're working together lately. I'd want to know if it were me.
Coworker · SMS
Suits a coworker you know well, since it names the issue, owns the awkwardness, and explains why you're speaking up.
- 02
Hi Deepak, I need to talk to you about something sensitive: a body odor issue at work lately. I'd like you to hear it from me first and in private. Are you free at 3?
Someone you manage · Email
Fits a manager who wants a private conversation while still letting the person know roughly what the topic is.
- 03
Can we have a quick private word? I've noticed a body odor issue and I'd rather tell you in person than leave you guessing.
Someone you manage · Chat
Good for a same-day, low-key invitation to talk, naming the topic without putting details in writing.
- 04
Hi Ana, I wanted to let you know in case you weren't aware: there's been a strong sweat smell around your desk the last few days. I'm only mentioning it because I'd want someone to tell me.
Coworker · Email
Best kept for when you can't speak face to face, since email leaves a written record that may feel more exposing.
- 05
Hi Megan, I need your advice on a sensitive matter. A team member's personal hygiene is affecting people sitting nearby, and I'm not sure how to raise it. Could we talk this week?
Boss · Email
Helpful when the person isn't your report and you want guidance or backing before saying anything to them.
- 06
Hey Theo, a quiet heads-up because I'd want to know: your jacket has had a musty smell lately. Could be worth a wash or airing it out.
Coworker · Chat
Fits when the smell seems to come from clothes, because it points to a simple, practical fix.
Examples
Hi Deepak, Thanks for talking with me this morning. As I said, I've noticed body odor around you in recent weeks, and I wanted you to hear it from me in private. If something is making it hard, such as access to facilities or a health issue, tell me and we'll see what can help. Best, Raj
Hey Jo, hope it's okay to mention this. In the car this week I've noticed some body odor. A spare shirt or a deodorant in your bag has saved me on hot days.
What to avoid
- Telling them that others have complained or are talking about it makes them feel watched and gossiped about, and leaves them wondering who said what.
- Bringing it up in front of others, in a group chat or in an open-plan area turns a private matter into a public one.
- Guessing at causes or passing judgment, such as suggesting they don't wash, only adds insult.
- Hints, jokes or a stick of deodorant left on their desk humiliate the person without making the point clear.
- Labels like dirty or smelly sting, so describe what you noticed and when instead.