DIY Hygiene Kit for Struggle Days

Let’s face it: sometimes taking care of hygiene feels like climbing a mountain. Maybe we’re short on time, running on empty, or just completely overwhelmed. During times when our bandwidth is higher, prepping for struggle days can make all the difference. A hygiene kit—a collection of items to make taking care of yourself easier and faster—can be a simple but powerful way to support ourselves when even the basics feel hard.

Think of it as a ready-to-go stash of essentials—something we can grab when we need to get out the door in a hurry, or when a full shower and routine just aren’t happening. It’s not about perfection (because, let’s be real, perfection is SO last season); it’s about having what we need to take care of ourselves in a compassionate and realistic way.

What to Include in Your Hygiene Kit

Here are some ideas for building your own DIY hygiene kit:

• Disposable Toothbrushes
  Great for quick, on-the-go teeth cleaning. Look for brushes pre-loaded with toothpaste you can swallow, like Crest Scope Mini Brushes or Brushee toothbrushes.

• Face Wipes
  A simple way to freshen up your face. Try something like CeraVe Facial Cleansing Wipes—gentle on skin and easy to use.

• Deodorant
  For managing sweat and odors, pack a travel-sized deodorant or your favorite stick.

• Body Wipes
  Showering might not be doable right now, but body wipes can help you feel clean and refreshed. Focus on key areas like underarms, neck, face, chest, groin, and feet. Some options to try include CleanLife No Rinse Bathing Wipes or DRMTLGY Body & Face Shower Wipes.

• Rinse-Free Shampoo
  Yes, it’s a thing! These products let you clean your hair without needing water. Try Scrubzz Disposable Rinse-Free Bathing Wipes or McKesson Shampoo and Body Wash Rinse-Free.

• Detangling Hairbrush
  A gentle hairbrush can help you manage tangles with less effort. The Crave Naturals Glide Thru Detangling Brush works for many hair types.

• Face & Body Lotion
  Keep your skin hydrated and happy with a small tube of lotion.

• Tissues
  A staple for just about anything. Keep a small pack handy.

• Additional Soothing Items
  Add items that bring you comfort or joy. Some ideas:some text
  • A heating pad for sore muscles
  • Nail polish for a quick pick-me-up
  • Pleasant-smelling lotion
  • A face mask for a mini self-care moment

Why It Helps

Having a hygiene kit ready to go can take the guesswork out of tough days. It’s one less thing to think about when your energy is low. And beyond the practical benefits, these small acts of care—cleaning your face, brushing your hair, or using a soothing lotion—can remind you that you deserve compassion, even when life feels hard.

Give it a try! Your future self will thank you.

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