The first-aid box can, of course, be as simple or as elaborate as you like. We took stock of what doctors say should be in any first-aid box.
1. An antiseptic
To remove any dirt and debris and prevent infection after a minor injury.
2. Adhesive bandage
Accidents happen. Even if you aren’t someone who bumps into things all the time, or have kids, waterproof Band-aids or Hansaplast can come in quite handy in a variety of situations. Case in point: shoe bite.
The bandage will prevent your clothes (or shoes) from rubbing against your wound and keep it dry at the same time.
Try a printed band-aid, for an instant pick-me-up after a booboo - they aren’t just for kids, you know.
And stock up on square ones and round ones for the places that are hard to cover with big, rectangular tape.
3. Gauze dressing
Yes, they are a bit old-fashioned. But they’re just as versatile as they were in your parents’ time.
4. Crêpe bandages
For sprains and sympathy.
5. Safety pins
Two reasons: safety pins are versatile - they come in handy for wardrobe emergencies, too; and when you break the clasp on your crêpe bandage, you’ll need a safety pin to keep the bandage in place.
6. Tweezers
Don’t go trying to remove a splinter with that safety pin, now. Use tweezers. And if it looks like the splinter is in too deep, don’t try to remove it yourself, go to a doctor. A good pair can help you get those eyebrows looking on fleek.
7. Scissors
This one’s self-explanatory, we think. Just be careful not to cut yourself. And maybe get a babyproof one if you have young children in the house - gauze isn’t that hard to cut.
8. Cotton balls and cutips
Make sure to put them in a clean box within your first-aid box. You won’t be doing anyone any favours by using dirty cotton.
9. A thermometer
Because you can’t always use the back of your hand to tell when you’re running a temperature. If you have babies at home, this one’s a must.
10. Mosquito patch or cream or spray
To keep five things at bay: dengue, malaria, chikungunya, itchy bites and sleepless nights.
11. Antiseptic cream
For cuts and scrapes that don’t need a bandage. Apply, and forget.
12. Painkillers
Worldwide, headaches and backaches are among the most common reasons why people miss a day of work - keep an appropriate medicine or spray handy.
13. Pain reliever spray, gel or balm
Pain can get in the way of a good night’s sleep. For muscle sprain and back pain, pain reliever spray, gel or balm can ease the discomfort immediately. Yes, you need the spray as well as the painkiller medicine.
14. Antihistamines
To stop the sniffles if you’ve got allergies, as well as for any allergies you haven’t discovered yet.