What’s Really in a Hygiene Kit?

Across the country, volunteers and nonprofits pack hygiene kits for people experiencing homelessness. Each kit represents care in its simplest form, yet not all kits meet real needs. The difference between a helpful kit and a frustrating one often comes down to what is inside.

Many first-time volunteers assume that more items mean more impact. In truth, the most effective hygiene kits focus on practicality, portability, and dignity. Based on feedback from shelters and outreach coordinators, here is what people say they actually need and how to assemble kits that truly make a difference.

The Essential 10

These ten basics form the foundation of every meaningful hygiene kit. Each one supports comfort, cleanliness, and confidence.

1. Toothbrush — individually wrapped with medium bristles and a sturdy handle. Shop wholesale toothbrushes.
2. Toothpaste (1–1.5 oz) — fluoride based, travel size, easy to reseal. View toothpaste options.
3. Bar soap or body wash (1–2 oz) — unscented or lightly fragranced, quick to rinse, individually wrapped. Explore body care supplies.
4. Shampoo or 2-in-1 body wash (1–2 oz) — compact, low scent, easy to distribute. See travel size shampoos.
5. Deodorant (solid stick, 0.5–1 oz) — long lasting and easy to pack. Browse deodorant options.
6. Razor — single blade, individually wrapped, safe to handle and dispose of. View disposable razors.
7. Tissues or wipes — pocket size packs that support hygiene without running water. Shop tissue packs.
8. Comb or brush — small yet durable for daily grooming. Shop combs.
9. Feminine hygiene products — pads or liners for portability and safe disposal. Explore feminine hygiene supplies.
10. Lotion or lip balm — compact comfort for dry or cold conditions. View skin care options.

Pack one of each in a clear, resealable one gallon bag for visibility and ease of distribution.

Gender and Family Variations

Seasonal Adjustments

What Not to Include

• Large full size products that are heavy or hard to carry
• Items that require electricity or significant water
• Strongly scented products that may irritate skin
• Glass containers or sharp edges
• Food, medicine, or vitamins for safety and storage reasons

When in doubt, keep it simple and portable. Smaller kits travel farther and reach more people.

Assembly and Distribution Tips

• Use clear resealable bags. One gallon size makes inspection and stacking easy.
• Label by type. Mark Men’s, Women’s, or General Use clearly.
• Add encouragement. A short note like “You are valued” can brighten a day.
• Check quality. Confirm items are sealed and within expiration dates.

Hosting a volunteer event? Print our Hygiene Kit Checklist for reference and quality control.

Sourcing Supplies Efficiently

• Wholesale suppliers. Buying through trusted partners such as Hotel Supplies Online keeps costs low and quality consistent.
• Retail stores. Fine for small donations, but costs rise quickly at scale.
• In kind donations. Accept only new, sealed items that are within expiration dates.

A complete 10 item kit purchased through wholesale averages about $2.00 to $2.50. Retail often reaches $7 to $10. Those savings allow organizations to serve two to three times as many people with the same funds.

Because Every Item Carries Dignity

A hygiene kit is more than a collection of toiletries. It is a message that says, “You matter.” Clean hands, fresh breath, and a simple comb can help someone feel human again.

Every bar of soap, every toothbrush, and every thoughtful item restores more than hygiene. It restores hope. Whether you build ten kits or ten thousand, intention and care make the difference.