Stocking Up on Supplies
Our list of what to have on hand during quarantine and social distancing to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.
As we write this, things are strange, chaotic, unnerving, and pretty confusing, too. A week ago, many of us didn’t even know what “social distancing” really was, yet suddenly we’re faced with a forecast of months at home doing just that. The coronavirus crisis in our country—and our world—has helped us shift our perspective to staying as safe and healthy as possible. But how? One way we can do that is by being prepared: Having what we need at home to disinfect and clean, and also to take care of ourselves. This is all new and can feel incredibly stressful and overwhelming. We hope this list helps you to feel a bit more in control of what you can do for yourself and your family—whether it’s washing your hands or getting calm and cozy together. Because we know budgets are especially tight in the face of this crisis, everything we’ve included here is potentially in your home already or at low prices at Gabe’s. Please note: Essentials such as cleaning products are available at up to 70% off department store prices, and we offer points through our Unbelievable Rewards program that can earn you coupons on future purchases. Here’s our list.
HOME CARE
Disinfecting Wipes + Sprays
Some of the most important items to stock up on now are the disinfecting wipes and sanitizing sprays that will keep your home as clean and safe as possible. Use them to clean high-touch areas, like phones and devices, door handles, countertops, and TV remotes (oh, you almost forgot those, right? Us too!).
Disinfecting wipes and sprays Starting at $.99
Kitchen + Bath Cleaners
Your kitchen has probably always been the heart of your home, and now it’s about to get a lot more facetime with your entire family. Keep surface areas clear of debris and wipe them down frequently with sanitizing sprays. Ditto for bathrooms, which should be cleaned more often to help combat germs (and increased traffic).
Kitchen and bath cleaners starting at $1.99
Laundry Essentials
The good news? You’ll probably be creating a lot less laundry as everyone chills at home without sports practices or big nights out. Still, you should make sure to deep clean your clothes, especially if you’ve been out in public areas. Pick up laundry detergent and sanitizers for more effective cleaning.
Laundry Essentials Starting at $2.99
SELF CARE
Antibacterial Soaps + Gels
This message can’t be overstated: Wash your hands frequently—as much as you can! Increase the duration of each wash as well. (Sing your favorite song or a few rounds of Happy Birthday as you wash.) Stock up on soaps you’ll use at home and gels and sprays that can tide you over during those times that you have to go out. Try to have at least one for each member of the family to use as their own.
Starting at $3.99
Oral Hygiene and Care
During long days at home, one of the ways we can ward off anxiety and depression is to stay in a routine. That can start as simply as waking up and brushing your teeth. While you’re shopping, pick up extra toothbrushes and toothpaste so that you can have what you need without leaving home again.
Starting at $1
First Aid Supplies
Have what you need on hand in case of illness or emergency: Stock up on adhesive bandages, gauze, painkillers like ibuprofen, allergy medications, and fever reducers. Make sure any battery-operated thermometers are in good working order and pick up some vitamins and everyday health needs while you’re at it. By being prepared to care for yourself in whatever way you can, you’ll help “flatten the curve” at busy hospitals.
Starting at $0.99
Shampoos, Conditioners, and Lotions
Sometimes the very best form of self-care is a simple shower or bath. There isn’t much that feels better than getting good and clean after a stressful day. One key component, though, is lotion: With all of the washing and cleaning you’re doing, it’s important to keep your skin hydrated to avoid dryness and itching. This goes double for hands, which can get cracked and painful from all of the handwashing you’re doing at the moment. Plus, massaging yourself with lotion can feel like a spot of pampering during your day.
Starting at $1
Cozy Gear for Days at Home
Out of the shower and into cozy clothes! We recommend a quarantine uniform that revolves around total comfort: Sweats and cotton t-shirts, scrubs and even athletic wear taken from the playing field to the bench (or couch, really). Don’t forget clean and comfortable socks and even new underwear. At night, cozy pajamas put an end to your day. Believe it or not, getting dressed each day, even in comfort gear, can help boost your mood and productivity.
Starting at $1.99
Puzzles, Brain Teasers + Games
Keeping your brain active and engaged can actually be fun, and it might help you relieve stress and reduce anxiety. Our favorite way to do it: Shut off the news and settle in with a brain teaser. Meditative games like puzzles, sudoku, crosswords and even coloring (yes, even for adults) can help you think strategically and creatively and help you decompress.
Starting at $1.99
Shelf Stable Snacks
We all want to be productive during this unexpected time at home, but the fact remains: We’re going to do a lot of binge watching. What better way to bond as a family than with a new (or classic) series? Stock up on snacks that will make it feel less like a Tuesday and more like a fun family movie night. Salty or sweet, stock the pantry with anything you think you’ll crave.
Starting at $1
Pet Gear + Toys
Let’s not forget those furry family members whose routines are also thrown off by social distancing. Dogs who are used to days at the park and cats who find everyone suddenly in their space… they need a little love, too. Pick up treats and toys that can help them weather the quarantine with ease, and that will help family members to engage with their pets in a way they’ll enjoy.
Starting at $2.99