Start with what you already have. This checklist helps you spot useful gaps and avoid duplicate purchases. Tick off anything you've covered. Your ticks last while this page stays open.
CHECK FIRST · BUY WHAT'S MISSING
Your illness-supplies checklist
These are starting points for respiratory illness planning. Follow current local public-health guidance for the specific illness and your household's circumstances.
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Masks and respirators
Check what you have. Check your existing supply, condition and fit before adding more.
What to look for. A clearly identified manufacturer, appropriate certification and a fit that works for the person wearing it.
The right protection depends on the illness and current public-health guidance. A marketplace listing alone doesn't verify certification.
A household thermometer
Check what you have. If yours works and you can find it, you're already ahead. Check its batteries and instructions.
What to look for. A readable display, clear instructions and a measurement method suitable for the person using it.
You don't need a premium connected model just to have a dependable thermometer.
Everyday hygiene and cleaning
Check what you have. Take stock of hand soap, tissues, laundry detergent and your usual cleaning supplies.
What to look for. Products you'll actually use, with legible directions and quantities that fit your storage space.
Follow product labels. Don't mix cleaning products or buy a large stockpile out of fear.
The essentials that depend on your household
Only open the categories that apply to you. There's no reason to buy everything on this page.
Baby, personal care and pet supplies
Baby care, if you need it
Check what you have. Check diapers, wipes and the supplies your household already uses.
What to look for. The current size and familiar products, with room for changing needs.
Buy gradually. Babies can outgrow a bulk purchase.
Personal care and continence supplies
Check what you have. Ask the person who uses them what works. Check the usual size, style and remaining supply.
What to look for. Familiar products that fit comfortably and support the person's normal routine.
Keep preferences and dignity at the centre of care planning.
Pet essentials
Check what you have. Count your usual food, litter or waste bags before ordering.
What to look for. The same food and supplies your pet already tolerates, in quantities you can rotate.
Ask your vet about any prescription or special-diet needs.
A PLAN HELPS TOO
Plan for illness in the household
- Agree on who could help if the usual caregiver becomes ill.
- Think through how someone who is sick could reduce close contact at home, following public-health guidance.
- Write down a contact who can help with deliveries or check-ins.
- Keep medication and allergy lists and pharmacy contacts accessible. Ask your pharmacist or care team how to maintain prescriptions and manage temperature-sensitive medication if normal access is disrupted.
Prescription planning belongs with your care team. You won't find prescription medication shopping links here.
Keep everyday life running
- Make a backup plan for work, school and caregiving.
- Work out how you'd get groceries and everyday supplies if someone couldn't leave home.
- Rotate a modest supply of the food and household items you normally use. You don't need panic purchases.
- Keep essential contacts and a simple household plan available offline.
Health guidance: Public Health Agency of Canada: caring for someone with COVID-19 at home ↗. This source is specific to COVID-19; advice can differ for another illness.
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