Should the supplication for entering and exiting the restroom be recited when using the lavatory for purposes other than relieving oneself, such as washing one's hair and the like?

Scholars have determined that the reason for the recommended practice of seeking refuge (isti'adha) upon entering the lavatory is to seek protection from Allah against the devils that are present in places of impurity and where private parts are exposed. This is indicated by the noble Hadith: "Indeed, these latrines are frequented (by jinn). So, when one of you enters the lavatory, let him say: 'I seek refuge in Allah from the male and female evil spirits (al-khubuth wal-khaba'ith).'" Jurists have mentioned that devils gain power in the lavatory because it is an empty and unclean place where the remembrance of Allah is disliked, thus seeking refuge becomes a safeguard for the Muslim.

Ibn Uthaymeen pointed out that the benefit of seeking refuge is to implore Allah for protection from evils and evil souls, because the lavatory is a dwelling place for devils. This reason necessitates maintaining the practice of seeking refuge every time one enters the lavatory, whether for relieving oneself or for various cleaning purposes, in order to protect the Muslim from the harm of devils. Ahmad ibn Hanbal narrated that he never entered the lavatory without seeking refuge except that something he disliked befell him.

Furthermore, the supplication upon exiting the lavatory: "Ghufraanak" (Your forgiveness), is prescribed for anyone who entered the lavatory for any reason. Scholars have mentioned that this is because one refrains from remembering Allah during the time spent in the lavatory, so the Muslim rectifies this by seeking forgiveness.