Buying Wound Care Supplies Online: A Practical Guide
Which wound care supplies you actually need, from bandages and gauze to hydrocolloid and foam dressings, and how to buy them safely online.
Quick answer
A home first aid kit should include adhesive bandages in several sizes, sterile gauze, tape, a roller bandage, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, disposable nitrile gloves, tweezers, scissors, an instant cold pack, a thermometer, pain relievers and an emergency blanket. Check it twice a year for expired items.
Most household injuries are minor cuts, burns, sprains and splinters. A well-stocked kit means you can deal with them calmly. Use this checklist to build or restock yours.
Wound care
- Adhesive bandages in assorted sizes (including knuckle and fingertip)
- Sterile gauze pads (2"×2" and 4"×4")
- Roller bandage and elastic (compression) bandage
- Medical tape
- Antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointment
- Hydrogel burn dressing or burn gel
Tools
- Disposable nitrile gloves (several pairs)
- Tweezers and blunt-tip scissors
- Digital thermometer
- Instant cold packs
- Emergency (foil) blanket
- CPR face shield or breathing barrier
- Flashlight and spare batteries
Medicines
- Pain and fever relievers suitable for everyone in the household (including children's formulas)
- Antihistamine for allergic reactions
- Hydrocortisone cream
- Oral rehydration salts
- Any personal prescriptions (e.g. an epinephrine auto-injector)
Extras worth adding
- A few KN95 or surgical masks
- Hand sanitiser
- A printed list of emergency contacts, allergies and medications
- A basic first aid manual
Storage and upkeep
Keep the kit somewhere cool, dry and easy to reach, but out of children's reach. The kitchen or a hallway cupboard is better than a steamy bathroom. Keep a smaller kit in the car. Twice a year (for example when the clocks change), replace anything expired or used.
A first aid kit is for minor injuries. Call 911 for serious bleeding, breathing difficulty, chest pain, severe burns or loss of consciousness.
FAQs
What are the 10 most important first aid items?
Adhesive bandages, sterile gauze, medical tape, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, disposable gloves, tweezers, scissors, an instant cold pack and pain relievers.
How often should I check my first aid kit?
At least twice a year, and after every use. Replace expired medicines and restock anything you've used.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for general information and isn't a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Ask a qualified clinician about your situation. Some links are affiliate links; see our disclosure.
