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Hygiene Without Water: How to Stay Clean in an Emergency

Hygiene in a crisis: a practical guide

⏱ 2 min read

When there is no water, power or heating. A guide based on official advice. The same text is in the free SurvivalZone.app and works without internet.

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What to keep in stock

  1. Toilet paper, wet wipes and hand sanitiser.
  2. Pads or tampons, and nappies if there is a baby at home.
  3. Strong bin bags and a bucket with a lid.
  4. Soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste and cleaning products.

When there is no running water

  1. Emergency toilet: a bucket lined with a strong plastic bag. Tie the bag after use and put it in a separate container.
  2. Soil, sawdust or cat litter will cover the smell.
  3. If only the taps are dry, you can still urinate into the toilet.
  4. Wash with wet wipes and clean your hands with sanitiser, especially before eating and after the toilet.
  5. Your local council will tell you how to dispose of waste.

Health

  1. Wash your hands before eating, after the toilet and after contact with someone who is ill.
  2. Use only boiled or bottled water for brushing teeth and washing dishes.
  3. Watch for diarrhoea and fever in your household, especially children and older people.

Watch out

See also

Frequently asked questions

How do I make an emergency toilet?

Line a bucket with a strong plastic bag, tie it after use and put it in a separate container. Soil, sawdust or cat litter covers the smell.

How do I keep clean without water?

Use wet wipes and hand sanitiser. Always clean your hands before eating and after the toilet.

Which hygiene supplies should I stock?

Toilet paper, wet wipes, hand sanitiser, pads, nappies, bin bags and a bucket with a lid.

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Sources

Scientific literature and guidelines

Official sources are checked automatically every day. Last check: 2026-11-08.

General guidance only; it does not replace the emergency services. If a life is in danger, call 112.

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