Easy-to-Store Non-Food Items

Storing Non-Food Items

Storing non-food items is nearly as important as storing food products. No, it's not life or death without them, and you could improvise.

Ever used leaves for toilet paper?

Or ripped up clothes for diapers for your little one?

Yes, you can make your own soap (and I suggest you learn how if you want to be really self reliant).

Invest in emergency food storage now and enjoy peace of mind for the next 25 years. Don't miss out on the savings! 

But the message is, don't forget to store non-food items along with the food storage.

Build up a year's supply by purchasing in larger quantities when they are on sale. Stick to buying items that you normally buy each week at the grocery store. It is usually less expensive to purchase these items in bulk at a warehouse store like Sam's Club or Costco. And don't forget to check the Dollar stores.

The only criteria is that you buy the things your family needs — not just something that is on sale. Adjust the list below to include items you normally use.

The great thing about non-food items is that you can get creative about where to store them. Most items will not be affected by heat or freezing temperatures, so a huge supply of toilet paper could go in a garage or attic, under beds, or in other out-of-the-way places.

Items to Consider Storing:

Personal Hygiene

  • Toothpaste/Toothbrushes
  • Shampoo/Conditioner
  • Deodorant
  • Face wash/Body wash/Soap
  • Shaving Cream/Aftershave
  • Contact Lens Solutions
  • Lotions and Moisturizers
  • Vaseline

Paper Products

  • Toilet Paper
  • Paper Towels
  • Feminine Products
  • Diapers/Wet Wipes
  • Kleenex
  • Paper Plates/Plastic Utensils/Napkins (can save on water in an emergency)

Cleaning Products

  • Laundry Detergent
  • Dishwasher Detergent
  • Bleach
  • All-Purpose Cleaner
  • Vinegar

Pet Supplies

  • Dry or Canned Food
  • Kitty Litter
  • Extra water for pets

Miscellaneous Supplies

  • Light bulbs
  • Candles, Kerosene, or Lamp Oil for lighting appliances when the electricity is out.
  • Batteries - all sizes
  • Plastic bags - all sizes
  • First-Aid Supplies (What's in your medicine cabinet? Buy extra.)
  • Games, Coloring Books and Crayons, Books, Small Toys
  • Basic Sewing Supplies (needles, thread, scissors)

How do you know how many of these products your family needs for a year?

If you're a stickler for accuracy, you can keep track of how much is used during a month's time. Otherwise, just guess and begin stocking up.

The key is to purchase plenty of what your family uses regularly. Seriously! You'll be grateful for every purchase if or when an emergency arises.

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What do you think?

I’d love to hear what you have to say in the comments.​​

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