10. Soap and Sanitizer
Clean hands are your first line of defense against illness. In a crisis, soap becomes a form of protection—whether you’re cooking, cleaning wounds, or handling dirty surfaces. Stock up on bar soap because it lasts longer than liquid and doesn’t require a dispenser. Liquid hand soap and body wash are good, too, but they go fast. Hand sanitizer is essential when water isn’t available—get at least 60% alcohol content for effectiveness. Disinfecting wipes and sprays are also worth hoarding for high-touch areas like doorknobs, counters, and phones. Add dish soap and laundry detergent to your stockpile while you’re at it. Hygiene may not be glamorous, but it keeps you alive and healthy.