Someone recently asked me how I manage to stay clean and fresh on carnival day. And think about it you’re going to be sweating, you need to use the bathroom at some point and you will be in contact with hundreds maybe thousands of people for the duration of time you’re celebrating. Here are some hygiene tips for staying fresh on carnival day and during carnival.
Hygiene Tips For Staying Fresh On Carnival Day
- Wipes Are Your Best Friend
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- Particularly taking flushable or body wipes for quick refreshes when you have to use the bathroom is definitely essential when trying to stay fresh on carnival day. This is my ultimate go-to even if I just need a quick freshen up in the middle of a boat ride or during a potty break while in costume.
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- Mini Toiletry Kit
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- In general you should have all your essentials packed for travel but getting minis of everything is often a lifesaver. Travel size soap, deodorant, grab and go toothbrushes that you can dispose of on the road. Microfiber towels (often the band will provide) that can help with wiping away sweat or body fluids.
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- Underwear & Sock Rotation
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- I stock up on plenty of underwear and plenty of socks. If you feel like you’ve packed enough underwear and socks – pack at least a few pairs more. You especially need this for the road if you’re wearing boots and sneakers.
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- Portable Laundry Hacks
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- Cleaning your costume before wearing it is a must particularly costume bottoms, the inside of a wire bra or headpiece where it may come in contact with your face or any other part of your skin. Detergent sheets, a bar of soap in the sink then let it air dry = game changer.
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- Stay Hydrated & Eat Clean(ish)
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- Hydration = less body odor. Avoid heavy and greasy foods when you can and drink water between alcoholic drinks on the road. Caribbean people love rum but it’s also important to keep hydrated particularly because the sun is out and you will be on your feet and physically active for hours on end.
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- Feminine Hygiene (if applicable)
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- A MUST! Especially if you can’t delay your periods or don’t want to. Stock up on travel-friendly menstrual products, pH-balanced wipes and back up undies (just in case). Having your period on carnival day can be annoying so wipes (again!) are my go- to for staying fresh.
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- General HygieneÂ
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- Rule of thumb cleaning your hands regularly or sanitizing often is definitely something you continue to practice especially when you’re surrounded and interacting with so many people. When you get your drink cups/mugs make sure to rinse them out
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Other than that general preparedness to help you feel like your best self can include being physically active to improve stamina for carnival day, supplements to make you feel like your best self including vitamins, CBD which has been shown to have great health benefits including stress relief and positive impacts on blood pressure. Do you have any additional hygiene tips to add? Comment below and I’ll see you on the road.
