6 Crucial Items Every Prepper Should Have

Every prepper needs these 6 Crucial Items in his or her home. These items will help you get through any natural disaster or emergency that comes your way.

Bleach

Bleach is a common disinfectant used in many household activities. Its uses range from cleaning dishes and countertops to washing your hands. However, it can also be a threat to your health. As such, it is important to know how to use bleach effectively.

To ensure you get the most out of your bleach, rotate your bottle and follow a few basic rules.

First, you should store your bottle at 50 to 70 degrees F. This is to prevent it from deteriorating. Aside from that, it would be best never to store your bleach in direct sunlight or under any heat sources.

If you want to store your bleach for a long time, you can freeze it. While this can reduce its effectiveness, it does not affect its shelf life.

You can store your bleach for a year or longer in the freezer. But make sure it is stored in a cool area.

When you’re in a disaster, you need to be prepared to purify your water. This will protect you from typhoid and cholera, the two biggest killers in a disaster.

One way to purify your water is by using sodium hypochlorite. It is the only bleach approved for human consumption. The product can be purchased in powder or granulated form.

The American Red Cross recommends 5.25% to 6% sodium hypochlorite. Keep the product in a cool place with a good ventilation system.

Last update on 2026-01-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Duct tape

Duct tape is a handy tool for any emergency survival kit. It can be used to make everything from bandages to fire starters.

Duct tape can be purchased from a variety of sources. You can also get it at your local hardware store. Some duct tape has reinforcement added.

Duct tape is used to seal watertight buckets. It is also handy for sealing broken windows. Similarly, it can make a fire starter with dryer lint.

In addition, duct tape is excellent for repairing things like boots and shoes. Using duct tape to seal holes in your shoes will help prevent them from coming apart while you’re on the move. Likewise, duct tape can be used to pad blisters.

Another common use for duct tape is to blaze a reflective trail. If you’re lost in the woods, a strip of duct tape can serve as a signal mirror. This way, other hikers can spot you if you’re out of sight.

Another very useful application for duct tape is to use it to splint a broken ankle. If you break your ankle on a hike, duct tape can be a very effective option for holding it in place. Also, it can be used to splint a knee, a sprained ankle, or a finger.

You may have noticed that duct tape is very tough. Despite its strength, it’s easy to remove from a surface. So it’s important to clean up the excess adhesive after you’re done using it.

Epsom salt

Epsom salt has many uses as a household and survival item. It’s a natural mineral compound that contains magnesium and sulfur. Magnesium is one of the most important minerals for our bodies. As a result, it’s very helpful in helping us to regulate our nutrients and flush out toxins.

Another advantage to using Epsom salt is that it helps to soothe skin irritation. It can also help to relieve swelling, inflammation, and pain related to insect bites and poison ivy.

You can mix a few teaspoons of Epsom salt into a water solution and add it to a bath. This can also be used for treating burns. Besides providing instant relief, Epsom salt can help increase the skin’s elasticity.

You can also add Epsom salt to your garden soil. Not only will it help to improve the pH of your soil, it will also deter insects and slugs from destroying your plants.

It can be stored in a cool place away from direct sunlight. It can be purchased in bulk for a reasonable price.

Some people may prefer to use an unscented form of Epsom salt. If you are in a disaster situation, you may want to add some essential oil to the solution. Using a favorite scent can be a pleasant way to wash your clothes.

Using Epsom salts can be a great way to keep your laundry soft and smelling good. It can be used as a disinfectant to remove grime and stains. It can also be used in the kitchen to clean burnt cookware.

Last update on 2026-01-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Gerber E-Tool

The Gerber E-tool is a compact multi-tool that does many things you’d expect. It’s designed for the modern-day prepper who’s on the move. With a foldable design and durable stainless steel blade, it’s a handy tool.

The M48 Kommando Survival Shovel is multi-purpose, including a hammerhead and serrated edge. In addition to the ol’ shovel, it comes with a handy carrying case.

Of course, this isn’t the first time Gerber has released a pocket-sized gadget. Previously, the company produced a foldable spade with a pick end. Whether you’re a camper, a hiker, or a backyard enthusiast, the Gerber E-tool is sure to fit in your pocket, glove compartment, or trunk.

However, there’s much more to the e-tool than meets the eye. As an improvised hammer, weeder, hatchet, and shovel, it’s a worthy addition to the prepper’s arsenal. For example, its powder-coated steel blade prevents corrosion. If sharpened, it doubles as a hatchet.

Despite its compact size, the Gerber E-tool is surprisingly robust equipment. The hefty steel blade has a smooth finish, while the handle is made of polypropylene and steel. When in use, it weighs just over two pounds. This makes it a handy tool for anyone looking to clear debris to allow the Max Trax to slide into place.

Although the Gerber E-tool isn’t the newest fad, it’s still a must-have for any serious prepper.

Last update on 2026-01-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Personal water filter

The LifeStraw Personal Water Filter is essential for any prepper in their home. It’s easy to clean and removes waterborne bacteria, parasites, and E. coli from drinking water.

Water filters come in many different sizes and styles. You can choose from pump, gravity, or bottle filters.

Pump filters use a hand pump to force water through the filter. There are also inline filters that attach directly to a hydration bladder.

Several of these products are designed to be carried in a backpack or go-bag. They’re small, lightweight, and inexpensive.

These water filters will filter out a lot of nasty chemicals and pesticides. Some will even remove viruses. However, not all of these filters can handle viruses.

The AquaRain Natural Water Filter has four ceramic elements that work together to remove harmful organisms. In addition, the GAC (Gold-Aluminum Composite) is self-sterilizing.

The HydroBlu Sidekick filters out bacteria and protozoa. This device weighs only a couple of pounds and has a hollow fiber filter lasting up to three years.

Besides being tiny, this product is extremely versatile. It can be used with the Sagan XStream Straw or as a shower cleaner.

Besides removing bacteria and protozoa, it also catches other types of contaminants. For instance, it’s rated to filter heavy metals and radioactive contaminants.

Another great option is the Katadyn Pocket filter. It has a ceramic depth filtration of 0.2 microns and is rated to remove protozoa.

Self-defense weapon

A self-defense weapon is an invaluable part of any prepper’s arsenal. Whether it’s in your home or car, it’s always good to be prepared. The right self-defense tool will help you protect yourself and your loved ones.

First, make sure you are well-trained with your chosen weapon. It’s also important to check your state’s laws on using self-defense tools. If you are caught using one, you could face penalties, so be careful.

Next, practice your newfound skills. For example, don’t just pull out the first baton you see. Be selective and try to pick one that fits your body well. You don’t want to risk injuries from an unwieldy baton.

While most people consider a gun the only surefire way to defend yourself, there are other options. Batons, tasers, knives, and improvised first aid are just a few options available.

For some people, a self-defense device that can kill an attacker is a definite plus. Stun guns and tasers have their place, but they are usually only suitable for close-range encounters.

Tactical pens are also a great option. They are small enough to fit on a key chain and are made of durable materials. They have a few functions, such as being a pen or a baton, but they can also be used to break windows.

Other self-defense tools to try are a hand-held light and a taser. These are typically good at what they do, but they can be more expensive and harder to keep in a convenient spot.