As the pandemic continues, and things like masks are becoming more difficult to find, the internet has become an essential resource to finding solutions to everyday needs. With my grocery supply depleting, and a grocery trip soon in the cards for me, I have taken a deep dive into creative ways to protect myself from COVID-19.
Please note that these are all DIY methods, and although they’re good in a pinch, these are definitive answers and protection against the virus.
The first DIY on my agenda was to make a mask. I have a sewing machine, but knowing that those aren’t exactly in everyone’s home, I thought a no-sew bandana method was more attainable. You can disassemble it to use your bandana again, and I find that the ability to disassemble the mask makes it easier to wash when you come back home from being out.
Here are some helpful links to make your own masks:
Straight from the CDC, here’s information on both no-sew and sew masks: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html
Tom Hank’s son, Colin Hanks, posted an updated version of the banda mask that allowed some changes in the use of the elastics to help ease the strain on the back of your ears here: https://www.instagram.com/p/B-k49ZlDopE/?utm_source=ig_embed
I’m a big proponent of making your own cleaner. You can re-use a spray bottle, it cuts down on cost, and they’re generally made of household items. I have a go-to all-purpose cleaner that I use to spray down my kitchen, bathroom, countertops, and even my fridge. This recipe, plus more, can be found at: https://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/house-cleaning/cleaning-products-tools/homemade-cleaners/?
For my favorite all-purpose cleaner, you will need:
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3/4 cup Hydrogen peroxide
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1/2 cup Distilled white vinegar
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1 teaspoon Unscented liquid Castile soap
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10 drops tea tree oil
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20 drops lavender essential oil (optional)
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2 cups water
It’s pretty much as simple as collecting all of the ingredients. Once you have everything, you simple add all ingredients to a spray bottle (make sure it’s at least 24 oz.) and then shake before use. If you’re using this time to clean you bathroom and need a little extra help with the mildew or soap buildup, you can always put some baking soda on the area after you have sprayed it then scrub the area with a sponge.
Disinfection, though, is really important right now. This means you’ll need to use bleach or some other sort of solution that can sanitize. The CDC suggests to prepare a bleach solution by mixing 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water or 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water on non-porous surfaces (like in the bathroom or kitchen). For more information on what to clean and how you can find the CDC’s suggestions here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cleaning-disinfection.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fprepare%2Fcleaning-disinfection.html
Above all, stay in your home if you can, reach out to your friends, and make sure to thank an essential worker today!