The short answer
In a traditional public hammam most people keep their underwear or swim briefs on; full nudity is not the norm. Bring flip-flops, a towel and a change of underwear. A spa hammam in a riad or hotel will tell you what it provides and what to wear. Either way, modesty is the norm.
In more detail
A local hammam is a neighbourhood bath: hot, warm and cool rooms where people wash weekly with savon beldi, a black soap made from olives, and a rough kessa glove. The attendant, a kessal for men or a tayeba for women, gives a vigorous scrub if you ask for one.
At a public hammam you typically bring or buy the black soap and kessa glove at the door. For a first visit, going with someone who knows it, or asking your riad to explain the routine, makes it far easier.
A spa hammam in a riad or hotel is gentler and more private, with the products provided and often a massage to finish. It is a good place to start, and still uses the same steam, black soap and scrub.
Good to know
- Flip-flops: the floors are wet and slippery.
- A spare pair of underwear for afterwards.
- Drink water before and after.
- Tip the attendant who scrubs you.