Vacuum Sealing Non-Food Items for Emergency Preparedness

Introduction

Vacuum sealing non-food items is a versatile and effective method for emergency preparedness. This technique not only saves space but also protects your essential gear from moisture, pests, and damage. In this article, we will cover how to create various non-food kits, including medical, hygiene, clothing repair, and more. We will also delve into the specifics of vacuum sealing clothing for long-term storage.

Creating Non-Food Kits

Vacuum sealers are invaluable tools for preppers, allowing you to store non-food items in compact, dry, and protected kits. Here are eight recommended kits:

Medical Kit

Pack bandages, gauze, over-the-counter medications, water treatment tabs, alcohol wipes, and burn gel packs. Vacuum sealing ensures sterility and protection.

Hygiene Kit

Include toilet paper, feminine hygiene items, wet wipes, and all-purpose cleaners like Camp Suds. These items are crucial for maintaining hygiene in the wilderness.

Small Clothes Pack

Store socks, underwear, t-shirts, and thermal clothing. Rolling items before sealing reduces bulk and prevents moisture damage.

Clothing Repair Kit

Include thread, patch cloth, small scissors, yarn, and needles. Store needles in their original packaging to avoid puncturing the vacuum bags.

Fire Starting Kit

Pack matches, ferro rods, fire bow kits, and fire starter pods. Essential for survival in any weather condition.

Fishing Kit

Include fishing line, hooks (stored in original packaging), artificial bait, netting, and hook sharpeners. Avoid sharp items damaging vacuum bags.

Firearm Kit

Store ammo in sealed containers, bore snakes, cleaning brushes, and gun oil. Protect gun oil with plastic wrap to prevent leaks.

General Cleaning Kit

Include washcloths, super-absorbent towels, wet wipes, soap, and rags for general maintenance tasks.

Combining Kits into Specialized Packs

Car Pack: Fire starting, fishing, small clothes, hygiene, and medical.
Bug Out Bag (BOB): Medical, fire starting, fishing, small clothes, hygiene, and general cleaning.
Hiking Pack: Medical, fire starting, fishing, and small clothes.
Camping/Hunting Pack: Firearm kit, fire starting, medical, general cleaning, plus individual fishing, hygiene, and small clothes kits.

Vacuum sealing ensures items remain dry, organized, and easily accessible. Clear bags allow quick identification of contents during emergencies.

Vacuum Sealing Clothing for Long-Term Storage

Vacuum sealing clothing is a practical method for long-term storage, waterproofing, and space-saving. Here’s how to do it:

Materials Needed

Vacuum sealer (e.g., FoodSaver)
Vacuum-sealable bags (longer bags are preferable for easier sealing)
Silica packets (to absorb moisture)
Oxygen absorbers (500 cc or larger, to prevent moth infestation)
Clean, dry clothing

Steps

Ensure clothing is completely dry and clean before sealing.
Cut a bag to size, leaving extra length for sealing. Heat-seal one end to create a pouch.
Place clothing inside, adding silica packets for moisture control and oxygen absorbers if moths are a concern.
Use the vacuum sealer’s ‘dry’ setting to vacuum and seal the bag.
For long-term storage (over a year), transfer sealed clothing into 5-gallon buckets or Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers. Mylar provides additional waterproofing and insect resistance.
To deter mice, store Mylar-sealed bags in metal containers with secure lids.

Moth Prevention

Avoid natural fibers like wool, which attract moths.
Use silica and oxygen absorbers to eliminate moisture and oxygen, killing moth larvae.
Freeze clothing at 18°F (-8°C) for 3 days to kill larvae.
Natural repellents include lavender sachets and camphor (peppermint or rosemary).

Conclusion

Vacuum sealing non-food items and clothing is a valuable skill for emergency preparedness. By following these steps, you can ensure your essential gear remains dry, organized, and protected from pests and damage. Whether you’re preparing for a car trip, a bug out bag, or long-term storage, vacuum sealing offers a versatile solution for maintaining your supplies.