Old school alternatives for sold out tissue, wipes and diapers

Covid 19 binge buying has left shelves empty of many essential items. Just what does one do for toilet paper when a bidet is not a viable option? What if your baby needs wipes for sensitive skin and there's none on the shelf? Thankfully, there's an old school substitute for just about any essential item that's been shopped out of availability.

Toilet paper doesn't have to be paper

When TP started vanishing off the shelves, hubby and I bought a large pack of cheap washcloths just in case we ran out of TP while quarantined. I realize some folks might find this solution unappealing but it's no different from using cloth diapers for your baby. Just keep a stack in a basket for ease of use.

Washcloth TP tips:

To avoid irritation, run your wipe cloths under water before use.

Rinse before tossing in the laundry. (Or not, whatever you're comfortable with.)

Keep used cloths in a separate hamper. Wash separately as well.

Microfiber washcloths make awesome baby wipes

They're perfect for babies with sensitive skin. They're relatively inexpensive too. Especially when you consider that they can be re-used. Like commercial baby wipes, they're not just for diaper changing. They're soft enough for baby faces too.

Microfiber cloth baby wipe tips:

Make them portable by storing in an old wipe box, zip-lock bag or plastic container.

You can pre-wet them with water or unscented mineral oil.

Bring a separate zip-lock bag for used cloths that need washing.

Wash any unused pre-wetted cloths at days end to avoid mold issues.

Instead of bleaching, use hot water and a cup of hydrogen peroxide in the wash.

Cloth diapers are an obvious substitute for sold out disposables.

Don't worry, these are not your grandmother's cloth diapers. Modern ones are leak-proof and have snaps so no stabbing baby with awkward diaper pins. Some have washable liners for easier clean up too. Cloth diapers will save you money and are less polluting. You may even decide to switch permanently once the Coronavirus crisis is over.

Bonus tip:

By now you know about making your own hand sanitizer, right?

If not, simply mix up a solution of 2/3 cup rubbing alcohol 1/3 cup aloe vera gel. In a pinch, you can use straight rubbing alcohol but adding the aloe vera does keep your hands from drying. Keep your solution in a liquid soap dispenser for ease of use.