MYTH: Hydrogen Peroxide is an optimal disinfectant for cleaning a wound.

FACT: Hydrogen Peroxide kills not only germs, but living cells as well, thus delaying wound healing. Plain potable water or a diluted povidone iodine solution works better.

Dr. Weiss Advice – Improvisational Technique – Wound Irrigation Using a Plastic Bag and Safety Pin

Fill a clean plastic sandwich or garbage bag with disinfected water and puncture the bottom of the bag with a safety pin or pointy knife. Hold the bag just above the wound and squeeze the top firmly to being irrigating.

Carry a first aid kit with wound irrigation supplies!

Learn more wilderness medicine, improvised techniques and first aid tips – click here for Dr. Weiss’s Comprehensive Guide to Wilderness and Travel Medicine.