The pandemic has shut down numerous operations and businesses. Aside from the jobs lost, there is also a shortage of disinfectants and protective equipment that we need to help beat the Coronavirus. Due to this, prices of face masks and the likes have either significantly gone up or are nowhere to be found.
If you’re looking to save money or if you simply want to protect yourself from catching the virus even if there are no equipment available in retail stores, this post is for you.
We have compiled some DIY instructions for disinfectants and protective equipment that will help you get through this tough time.
DIY Face Mask
The use of a face mask is very important to prevent you from catching the virus from someone and help protects other people from you if you’re sick. It’s very important that you wear one whenever you go out even if the budget is tight or stocks are not enough. Here’s how you can make an effective face mask from the Telegraph.
But we understand that not all people know how to sew. Although non-sewn masks are not the most protective, it’s still better than absolutely nothing. This might be a great time for you to learn the art of sewing, but in the meantime, here’s a post from _Huffpost_ on how to make non-sewn face masks.
DIY Face Shield
While the virus is still around, it’s crucial that you do not touch your face, especially when outside the comfort and safety of your homes. Face shields can help you do that, as well as prevents people from sneezing or coughing right into your face. There are a lot of tutorials available online but here are three of the most relevant ones: (feel free to pick a method that would work best for you).
How to make a face shield in 2 minutes & DIY Fluid resistant cover for N95 by George Yang, MD
DIY Face Shield Out of Plastic Bottles by Jonny DIY
Quick and Easy Face Shield from CreativityWindow
DIY Hand Sanitizer
Although washing your hands is the most effective way to kill viruses, you can’t exactly wash your hands all the time while outside. Thus, the need for a hand sanitizer that is effective enough to kill the coronavirus. It’s agreeable that rubbing alcohol alone would be enough, but sometimes, pure alcohol can be too harsh for our skin.
Grab some rubbing alcohol, some aloe vera gel, and some lemon juice and your hand sanitizer will be good to go. Here is the full instruction for the DIY Hand Sanitizer tutorial from Healthline.
DIY Household Disinfectants for coronavirus
You would be surprised at how many things that are already available in your kitchen can be used as disinfectants. Before buying anything, try these solutions first before going to the store. It won’t only save you money but will also lower your risks of getting infected by not going out.
That, or if your preferred cleaning supplies aren’t available in the store, you could use these as alternatives, too!
1. 70%+ Alcohol
Alcoholic drinks that have above 70% alcohol content are good enough to be used as a hand disinfectant. But nobody wants to use that as a hand sanitizer (okay, maybe just if you’re really out of other options). But it is perfect as a household disinfectant.
If you have a 70% variant, there’s no need to dilute it into water. If it’s 80% above, a little water dilution is recommended.
2. Bleach
Of course, bleach is a very effective household disinfectant. But it’s too strong, which is why the CDC recommends that you dilute a third-cup of bleach into a gallon of water before using unless you want to ruin your house.
Note: Do not mix bleach with ammonia, vinegar, or any other solution!
Other DIY Household disinfectants (not effective against coronavirus)
1. Vinegar
Although vinegar isn’t the best smelling household disinfectant, it’s still very effective and cheap. Mix it into some water before using so both the smell and the solution won’t be too strong.
2. Baking Soda
People use baking soda to whiten their teeth! It surely can clean your household. It’s inexpensive, and it’s available almost everywhere. Mix your baking soda with water until it turns into a pasty texture.
Any other tips? Please share comments below.
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