🚨 Hygiene prevents disease.
Without running water you can still keep clean – with the right methods.
1. The Cat Wash Principle
Maximum cleanliness with little water:
- 1-2 liters warm water in bowl/deep cup
- Washcloth made of microfiber or cotton
- Body part by body part: Face, neck, arms, armpits, chest, back, legs, feet
- Soap sparingly: Liquid soap diluted, solid soap lasts longer
- Save water: Not under shower – pot washing!
2. Alternatives to Water
| Method | Water consumption | Effectiveness | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wet wipes | 0 liters | Good | Buy biodegradable, store 50+ pieces |
| Dry shampoo | 0 liters | Hair | Powder on head, massage in, brush out |
| Sanitizer gel | 0 liters | Hands | Alcohol-based, 70%+ |
| Shake out clothes | 0 liters | Medium | Removes dust/dirt, sun dry |
| Sand/cleaning cloths | 0 liters | Fat/hands | Dry sand + oil removes dirt, then shake off |
3. Wash Hair Without Water
- Dry shampoo: Powder on hair roots, let work 5 minutes, brush out
- Starch/baby powder: Natural alternative, absorbs fat
- Vinegar rinse: 1 tbsp vinegar in 1L water – removes fat, shiny
- Beer: Old beer as rinse (yeast nourishes hair)
- Short hair: In preparation for crises: cut hair short (less care)
4. Wash Laundry Without Machine
- Hand wash: 5L water + soap, knead, wring out, dry
- Clothesline: Sun dries and disinfects (UV radiation)
- Plump bag: Laundry + soap + water in waterproof bag, hang and shake
- Change less: Underwear daily, pants/vest every 3-5 days (if not sweaty)
- Air out: Shake out clothes, air out, sun – reduces washing need
5. Checklist: Hygiene Without Water
- ☐ Wet wipes (biodegradable, 100+ pieces)
- ☐ Solid soap (lasts longer, no water needed)
- ☐ Dry shampoo or baby powder
- ☐ Microfiber washcloths (quick drying)
- ☐ Sanitizer gel (70%+ alcohol)
- ☐ Toothbrush + toothpaste (or baking soda as substitute)
- ☐ Towels (quick drying, microfiber)
- ☐ Clothesline + clothespins