CEN FAQs: Use Disposable Products During an Emergency

During an emergency we don’t want to assume that we're going to be able to operate our dishwasher or even clean plates, cups and cooking utensils in the sink. A ReadyChristian prepares alternative products for use during an emergency. One reason to use disposable options is during the crisis whatever steps you’re able to take to simplify your life is a significant plus. 

Paper plates are a good first step. Purchase solid products that won’t collapse when food is served. Keep in mind children may not support the plate optionally so provide good security alternatives. Acquire different size plates for different utilization. Also, add some bowls for use in serving soups or cereal. 

A good selection of plastic eating utensils including forks, spoons and knives is important. Purchase the serrated knives as they are going to be easier to use in cutting items.

Purchase a selection of drinking cups in different sizes. Keep in mind smaller children may not handle larger cup sizes easily. Also, use insulated cups for coffee and other hot beverages. Additionally, you can serve drinks to little ones with a top on, just insert a straw, which you should also have in storage as these containers have less spills.

Further, it’s always good to have a good supply of paper towels and napkins available in your pantry for easy cleanup. Adding some baby wipes or cleaning wipes is helpful for easy cleanup. When stored for a long period of time the wipes have a tendency to dry out, but they are easily reconstituted by adding water.

An option to make cleanup easier in the kitchen is to purchase pan liners  which are easily placed in a pan and the cleanup simply consists of removing the plastic and tossing the garbage. This product when used may be heated to 400°. Additionally, assuming you have electricity, crock pot liners are also available and make for easy cleanup.

If you use your paper products for picnics be certain you restock properly to avoid diminishing your preparedness stock.

In Scripture we read about the importance of having clean eating utensils, “When they come from the marketplace they do not eat unless they wash. And they observe many other traditions, such as the washing of cups, pitchers and kettles.” (Mark 7:4) In some situations we may not be able to wash our knives and forks but having basic backup paper products will provide a clean eating environment.