There are many items that go into assembling a complete first aid kit for camping. We’re going to talk about one item in particular here: hydrogen peroxide, or H2O2. This is a multi-purpose liquid that has many useful applications.
There are quite a few good purposes for hydrogen peroxide when camping. Here are a few:
In the Kitchen
- Clean and disinfect flatware and cutting boards. Be sure to rinse off the H2O2 completely before using the items with food
- Clean surfaces in your kitchen and bathroom, as the liquid kills any lingering bacteria
- Clean your sponges by soaking them for 15 minutes in a solution of equal parts peroxide and warm water
- Also great for removing baked-on food from pots and pans; make a paste with baking soda and apply to pots. Allow to stand for a bit before cleaning.
First Aid
- Clean and disinfect cuts and scrapes with its antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties
- When applied to a wound the liquid will turn white and bubble. This shows it is killing any infection present
- Hydrogen peroxide can also ease allergic reactions. It’s common to accidentally touch or brush up against a poisonous plant while hiking or at the campsite
Washing Clothes
- Remove stains from clothing. Don’t have access to a laundry room? No worries! H2O2 is an excellent stain remover
- Dilute the liquid with water to bleach white clothing that’s been stained.
Personal Hygene
- Did you get a little too close to a skunk? Mix hydrogen peroxide with equal parts soap and baking soda to soak clothing before washing as usual. Don’t try this on the dog, however.
Disinfecting
- Clean children’s toys that have been left out at the campsite
