Using Zamzam for Wudu

Q: Is it permissible to use Zamzam water for purification purposes? What if the Zamzam water was placed in the masjid specifically for drinking only?

A: It is permissible to use Zamzam water for wudu (ablution) or ghusl (ritual bathing). There is no dislike (karāhah) in doing so according to the Hanbali school, because it is established that the Prophet ﷺ performed wudu with Zamzam water after drinking from it.

However, it is disliked (makruh) to use Zamzam water for removing physical impurities (najāsah)—such as washing away filth—out of honor and respect for the sacredness of Zamzam.

Regarding Zamzam water that has been placed for drinking only—for example, water set out in a masjid with the intent of providing it for people to drink:

If the water was specifically designated (waqf / sabil) for drinking, then it is not allowed to use it for other purposes like wudu or washing, because this would violate the condition of the donation.

Therefore, if Zamzam water is placed in the masjid for drinking, it should only be used for drinking, not for wudu or cleaning.

Source: Sharḥ Muntahā al-Irādāt, Kashshāf al-Qināʿ