How do we care for the sacred thread (janeū), and when is it changed?

keep it clean, loop it over the ear when using the toilet, and change it on Upākarma (Śrāvaṇī), after sūtak, or if it breaks.

The yajñopavīta, received at upanayana, is a reminder of the wearer’s commitment to study, discipline and the sandhyā prayers. In daily life it is normally worn over the left shoulder; it is moved to the right shoulder for rites to the ancestors. A common custom is to loop it over the right ear when going to the toilet, to keep it clean.

It is traditionally changed every year on Upākarma or Śrāvaṇī (in the month of Śrāvaṇa), after a period of sūtak due to birth or death, after an eclipse in some families, and whenever it breaks or becomes very dirty. A fresh thread is worn with a mantra, and the old one is placed respectfully in flowing water, under a tree, or in the garden.

Customs vary between regions and Vedic branches, and some communities have their own forms. Families who do not wear a janeū are in no way lesser; the thread is one form of discipline, not a measure of devotion.

Annual change: Upākarma / Śrāvaṇī · Source: Gṛhya-sūtra tradition; family practice

Dharma Q&A — worship at home · Ask a Jyotishi your own question