However, it is recommended to say "Bismillah" (In the name of Allah) at the beginning, just as you would for Wudu (ablution). This is a general practice for any act of purification.
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How to perform Ghusl properly:
Based on the authentic hadiths, here's how the Prophet ﷺ performed Ghusl from major impurity (Janabah):
1. Start by saying "Bismillah" (In the name of Allah).
2. Wash your hands two or three times.
3. Wash your private parts with your left hand.
4. Perform a complete Wudu (ablution) like you would for prayer — washing the face, arms, wiping the head, and washing the feet. [Sahih Bukhari 272-273]
5. Pour water over your head three times, making sure the water reaches the roots of your hair.
6. Pour water over your entire body, starting from the right side, and ensure every part is washed.
The Prophet ﷺ said: *"There is no Muslim who performs ablution and completes it as Allah has commanded, then prays the five prayers, except that they serve as expiation for the sins committed between them."* [Sahih Muslim 231]
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Important note about intention:
The most essential thing is your intention (niyyah) — that you are performing Ghusl to purify yourself from major impurity. This intention is in your heart, not spoken aloud. Once water has touched every part of your body with this intention, your Ghusl is valid.
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Practical advice: After completing your Ghusl, you can recite the same dua you would say after Wudu: *"Ashhadu an la ilaha illa-llah wahdahu la sharika lah, wa ashhadu anna Muhammadan 'abduhu wa rasuluh"* (I bear witness that none has the right to be worshipped except Allah, alone without partner, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger). [Dua after ablution]
You can find the step-by-step guidance for Ghusl in the Purification section of your Al Muslim Plus app, along with all the related duas and invocations.