Back-to-School Germ Season Must-Haves

…from a person who just survived COVID

When the kids go back to school, it’s only a matter of time before something nasty comes home in their backpack. This year, it got me early (from a work conference), and it got me good. I just spent over a week in bed with COVID, and learned real quick what actually helps (and what doesn’t) when you’re trying to survive being sick while your household goes on with life around you.

Whether you’re battling back-to-school germs, the dreaded “man flu”, or just want to stock your “mom down” basket, these are the things I swear by to stay as comfortable as possible.

Want the full shoppable list? Click here to see my full Sick Day Survival Kit on Benable (affiliate links included).

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A Humidifier or Diffuser Is a Must

For me, keeping moisture in the air is vital when I’m sick. I used my diffuser daily with essential oils like eucalyptus, tea tree, and peppermint to clear the air and support decongestion. Even though I couldn’t smell anything for a while, it definitely helped open up my airways.

I struggle with clogged ears and ear infections after I’m sick, but this time, Afrin saved me. I alternated it with a regular saline nasal spray though because you don’t want to cause rebound congestion.

• Eden’s Garden Breathe Easier Oil
• Guardian Blend (a natural defense blend)
• Top-fill, easy-clean humidifier
• Afrin nasal spray or saline nasal spray
• Vicks VapoRub Shower Steamers and Bath Soak

Comfort Is Everything: Blankets, Pillows, PJs, and more

I really struggled to get comfortable, especially since I didn’t leave my bed except to go to the bathroom for several days. I also had to sleep propped up to keep from getting too congested at night. My favorite blankets, sweatshirts, body pillow, and other creature comforts saved me.

• Aerie sweatshirt
• Soft & cozy night shirt
• UnHide blanket or cozy dupe
• Warmies slippers or stuffed animal
• Memory foam body pillow
• Headache cap

Hydration, Hydration, Hydration

I wasn’t hungry (couldn’t taste anything anyway!), but I was super thirsty. Having a water bottle I could sip from while half-asleep was crucial. I also rotated in herbal tea, electrolytes, pre-made protein shakes, and broth so I wouldn’t waste away.

• Swig MegaMug 40 oz. tumbler
• Owala FreeSip water bottle
• Liquid IV packets
• Gatorlyte rapid rehydration beverage
• Comforting herbal tea
• Kettle & Fire Bone Broth with Turmeric & Ginger
• Fairlife Core Power Protein Shakes

For When the Kids Inevitably Get It Too…

So far my family seems to have dodged the bullet this time, but I’m not naive enough to think that we’re out of the woods just yet. I’m keeping supplies at the ready just in case:

• Instant-read thermometer
• Acetaminophen
• Pedialyte popsicles
• Cozy blankets and pillows
• A “sick bin” with boredom busters like coloring books or mess-free crafts

We know the germs are coming for us along with back-to-school season. Having a few comforting things on hand makes a world of difference. Whether you’re prepping now or in the thick of it, I hope this list helps you feel a little more human.

>Don’t forget to bookmark my full list of Germ Season Must-Haves on Benable for when the next round hits.

Wishing you a healthy school year!