5 Ways to Stay Clean When Water is Scarse
Who needs running water to stay clean? Not us adventurers! While I love a good survivalist story, the one my dad told me about putting my clothes on an ant hill as the best way to get rid of lice - is just not going to cut it! Lucky for us, there are better ways to stay fresh and clean, even when water is scarce.
Don't worry, we've got some tricks up our sleeve to keep you smelling like a rose (or at least not like a sweaty gym sock).
Solar Showers and Sponge Baths
Stuck somewhere without a shower and scarce water? Don't worry, we've got you covered!
Your best bet is a solar shower- think of it like a big water container that soaks up the sun's rays to heat up the water to a comfortable temperature. It's like nature's own hot water heater!
Now, you can go ahead and buy pre-made camping shower bags, or if you're feeling creative, design and build your own. I personally recommend two designs that I've seen work really well. The first one is a simple iron pipe that holds a few gallons of water and has a pull chain shower head. The other one, which is my personal favorite, is the same concept but uses a metal drum instead of a pipe.
All you have to do is fill it up with water and let the sun work its magic. Once it's at the perfect temperature, you're ready for a refreshing shower. Trust me, it may seem like a challenge, but overcoming it will leave you feeling like a true survivalist. Go on, give it a try!
Smoking, it’s Not Just for Fish
Washing up isn't always an option, but that doesn't mean you have to walk around feeling like a swamp monster. Believe it or not, you can actually smoke yourself and your clothes by the fire for a quick clean up! Plus, the smoke has antibacterial properties that will leave you feeling fresher than a daisy. So next time you're feeling gross, light up a smoke and breathe easy knowing you're keeping it clean.
Ever Heard of a Dirt Bath?
Hey, you know those dust baths birds take? Well, turns out us humans can benefit from them too! If you've got some fine, dry dirt lying around, you can use it to clean off all those rank oils your body produces. Just cover yourself in the stuff, let it sit for a bit, and scrape it off for a fresh new you.
Oh, and if you're feeling adventurous, try using mud to clean your oily hair. Just work it in, let it dry, break it up, and brush it out for some seriously clean locks. Who needs expensive shampoos when you've got nature's very own mud spa treatment?
Clothes That Don’t Stink
Antimicrobial garments come in handy, especially those made from Merino wool. Merino wool is known for its breathability, moisture-wicking properties, and most importantly, its antimicrobial feature. The latter is particularly crucial because it prevents the growth of bacteria and reduces odors, allowing you to remain clean and fresh during long treks.
Antimicrobial clothing is ideal for adventurers who spend extended periods away from civilization, where water is a precious commodity, or where it's difficult to wash and dry clothes regularly. The Merino wool's ability to wick moisture away from the skin keeps it dry, thus preventing bacteria from thriving, ensuring that the garment remains odor-free even after extended use.
Practical examples of how to make the best use of antimicrobial clothes include wearing them as a base layer when hiking, camping, or performing other outdoor activities. This means that you don't have to worry about accumulating sweat and bacteria, as the garments will keep you cool, dry, and comfortable, no matter the intensity of the activity. Additionally, Merino wool is naturally UV-resistant, meaning that it protects your skin from the harmful rays of the sun, making it an excellent choice for adventurers who spend time in the outdoors.
How about a Wet Wipe?
Wet wipes are a practical and convenient solution. Wet wipes offer a quick and easy way to freshen up and maintain cleanliness without requiring water, making them an essential item for those times when water is scarce.
Convenient and Compact:
One of the biggest benefits of using heavy duty wipes on your outdoor adventures is that they are extremely convenient and compact. They are lightweight and take up very little space in your backpack, making them perfect for adventurers who are always on the move. Additionally, heavy duty wipes come in a flat pack which is easy to store and travel with.
Cleans and Deodorizes:
Wipes are not just wet towels – they have special ingredients that help clean, deodorize and moisturize. These wipes are designed to remove dirt, grime and odor from your skin, leaving you feeling fresh and clean after a long day of hiking or camping. They are also unscented, which means that there is no need to worry about any overpowering fragrances.
No Need to Rinse:
One of the greatest advantages of using wipes is that you don’t need to rinse after using them. This makes them perfect for those who are camping in an area where water is not readily available. You can use them to freshen up without worrying about finding a source of water to rinse off after.
Moisturizing:
Heavy duty wipes are designed to not only clean, but also moisturize your skin. Spending time out in the sun can leave your skin feeling dry and tight, but these wipes help to keep your skin feeling soft and supple. They are gentle enough to use on your face, making them perfect for those who want to avoid clogged pores and pimples.
All in all, heavy duty wipes are a great investment for anyone who loves spending time outdoors. They are not only convenient and compact, but also cleanses, deodorizes, moisturizes your skin and are environmentally friendly. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or simply need to freshen up after a long day of work, these wipes are a must-have for anyone who wants to stay clean and comfortable on the go. So, next time you head out on an adventure, make sure to pack some heavy duty wipes in your bag!