What are the recommendations concerning the location and covering of the washing space?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Funerals
Primary text
It is recommended that the deceased be washed indoors. Ibn Sirin preferred the room to be dark. Ahmad also mentioned this preference, or alternatively, establishing a screen between the deceased and the sky if a closed room is unavailable. Al-Nakh'i favored a screen between the washer and the sky. Evidence for this is found in the advice of Al-Dahhak to his brother Salm, instructing him to place a screen around him and between him and the sky during washing. Aisha narrated that when they washed the daughter of the Prophet (peace be upon him), they placed a screen between her and the roof.
Supporting text
This recommendation is established out of fear that the deceased's private parts might be exposed toward the sky. The aversion to having those present who are not assisting in the washing stems from the general disapproval of looking at the deceased without need.