A short but spirited thread on r/riotfest — started by user Strudleboy33 — reminds us that festival identity and basic hygiene aren’t mutually exclusive. The post, titled “You can shower AND still be punk.” drew 230 upvotes and about 40 comments as fans hashed out the gap between punk aesthetics and festival comfort.
What people said
- Many commenters pushed back on the stereotype that punk = filth, arguing self-care doesn’t wash away the music or credibility.
- Others defended the scruffy festival look as part of an ethos — but still acknowledged there’s a line between being sweaty and being unsafe or unsanitary in crowds and mosh pits.
- Several replies turned practical: recommendations for wipes, dry shampoo, campsite quick-shower setups, and paid shower options at big fests.
- A smaller thread within the thread focused on festival etiquette — especially staying mindful in tight spaces, respecting others’ boundaries, and cleanup after campsites.
Festival hygiene tips (from the thread)
- Pack baby wipes and a small towel — a 60-second wipe-down beats a full-on stink.
- Bring dry shampoo or a quick-dry cap for day-two hair emergencies.
- Check festival maps for paid shower stations or on-site partner vendors ahead of time.
- Foot care: closed shoes in pits + blister prevention = fewer early exits.
- Hydrate and rest — smelling bad is often a sign you need a break, not a statement.
Bottom line: Riot Fest fans are leaning toward a middle ground — keep the punk energy, but look out for yourself and the people around you. The Reddit thread is a small reminder that festival culture evolves when attendees share practical solutions, not just gatekeeping takes.
Want the whole discussion? Read the original thread on r/riotfest and tell us what you do to stay clean and still punk at festivals.
Source: https://www.reddit.com/r/RiotFest/comments/1nmsvs4/you_can_shower_and_still_be_punk/