Need some DIY shampoo for your bug-out bag? Look no further.
Most of us feel our best when our hair is fresh and clean. Unfortunately, this is going to be a real luxury when SHTF.
First the grocery store shelves will be cleared out – meaning whatever shampoo you’ve stocked thus far (or haven’t) is what’s going to get you through. After that, these preps can start running out, leaving you prone to bacteria and disease.
Not to mention, store-bought shampoos and conditioners often have harmful alcohols, silicones and sulfates that can damage your hair.
Luckily, DIY shampoo is often effective, all-natural and affordable. Plus, by making DIY shampoo yourself you can make large batches and keep them for stockpiling, selling or bartering later.
Here are…
DIY Shampoo Worth Stockpiling (3 Types!)
The Stress-Relief DIY Shampoo
- 4 oz Soap flakes
- 1/4 cup Almond oil
- Good-smelling essential oils
- Empty 32 oz. shampoo bottle with cap
If you didn’t buy pre-flaked soap, simply rub a bar of soap against a cheese grater, or use a knife to cut off small flakes. The flakes should be small enough dissolve in boiling water.
Pour the flakes in a large bowl. Next, boil a quart of water in a saucepan, and pour the boiling water over the soap flakes. Stir until they dissolve completely.
Next pour in the almond oil and about 10 drops of your favorite essential oils. Stir well, and then allow the mixture to cool.
The Moisturizing DIY Shampoo
This shampoo is known for moisturizing dry hair, and preventing frizz. It’s also known to strengthen hair and prevent breakage.
You’ll need:
- Chamomile tea (1 tea bag or 1 Tbsp loose-leaf)
- 0.5 oz. Olive oil
- 1/8 oz. each of Peppermint, Tea Tree & Rosemary essential oils
- 12 oz Liquid castile soap
- Rubbing alcohol (place in a spray bottle)
- Empty 16 oz shampoo bottle
Steep a bag of chamomile tea in 2 oz boiling water and let it sit for 10 minutes. If using loose-leaf tea, steep about 1 Tbsp for 10 minutes before straining. then let the water cool completely.
Next heat the castile soap in the microwave or in a sauce pan, making sure it is hot but does not boil. Stir in the olive oil and each of the essential oils. If bubbles form on the top, spray the surface with rubbing alcohol.
Finally, add the chamomile tea to the soap mixture, pouring slowly. Allow the mixture to cool before pouring into an empty 16 oz bottle.
The In-Between Dry DIY Shampoo
This is a great method to use in-between washings. That’s because baking soda helps eat away at excess oil buildup on the hair. And, considering showers/baths will be few and far-between, dry shampoo is a great way to keep your hair as fresh as possible.
You’ll need:
- 1/2 cup Baking soda
- 1/2 cup Cornmeal
- 1/4 cup Dried ground oatmeal
- 1/8 cup Dried lavender
- Empty spice container with lid.
Combine all ingredients in a blender, coffee/spice grinder or food processor until they become a fine powder.
Pour the mixture into a clean spice shaker (such as one used for pepper or salt). This will allow you to pour small amounts of it when needed. Place the lid on tightly and store in a dry location. Store the remaining powder in a larger air-tight container for safe keeping.
To use, make sure your hair completely dry. Then use a brush (such as a makeup brush) to apply the dry shampoo to your roots. Distribute it evenly throughout your hair, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
Take a hairbrush and brush out your hair, removing the excess powder.