A COVID CHRISTMAS
Get on the nice list with gifts such as oximeters and digital thermometers.
This has been a strange year, to say the least.
I like to think I’m prepared for a lot of potential situations, but a pandemic was not one of them.
This gift guide contains some of the things I’ve acquired during the pandemic that I wish I had ready beforehand. Count these in the “need to have” category.
I’m not sure you’ll see pulse oximeters or nitrile gloves on many Christmas lists, but you’ll be glad you have them on hand if the need arises.
Oaxis Non-Contact Body Infrared Digital Forehead Thermometer
What is it? We’ve all seen them, especially in the last six months. This is a thermometer that can take your body temperature by pointing at your forehead and pressing the trigger. You need to be 2 to 6 inches away, and the reading is instant. This is the easiest thermometer I’ve ever used. It also has a mode that allows you to get the surface temperature of anything you point it at. It will tell you how hot your skillet is and whether you have a fever.
Who is it for? Every house needs a good thermometer. What does it cost? $49.99 Where can I get it? Target.com
Zacurate Pro Series 500DL Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
What is it? This is a clip-on pulse oximeter to show you your blood oxygen level and heart rate. I have to admit I didn’t give my blood oxygen saturation levels much thought until the pandemic started, but now it is very reassuring to have this little meter onmy bedside table. If you are sick, knowing your blood oxygen level can tell you when it’s time to see your doctor.
Who is it for? I think every house should have one. What does it cost? $26.99 Where can I get it? Amazon
The EverydayMask by Proper Cloth
What is it? If you’d have told me last year that I’d have dozens of masks aroundmy house, I’d have thought you were crazy. After trying quite a few, I’ve found the Everyday Mask by custom clothesmaker Proper Cloth to be just right for my big face. It comes in two models - one with straps that go around the ears and one with longer straps that go around your whole head. It comes in a variety of fabrics.
Who is it for? We all need comfortablemasks.
What does it cost? $25, but cheaper in multipacks.
Where can I get it? https:// propercloth.com/shop/masks/
Brita Stream UltraMax Water Filter Dispenser-18 cup
What is it? We all need to drinkmore water. Bottled water is great and very convenient, but having a filtered water dispenser in your refrigerator is easier than lugging heavy cases of water. Brita pitchers and water dispensers filter impurities and make the water taste better. We’ve had our Brita pitcher for years. My parents have this dispenser and it’s onmy list, for sure. Who is it for? People who don’t have ice and water from the door of their refrigerator. What does it cost? $24.99 Where can I get it? Bed Bath & Beyond orWalmart
Beurer BM55 Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor
What is it? We all need to keep up with our general health, and regularlymonitoring your blood pressure will make your doctor happy. The Beurer BM55 is easy to use and very easy to read. It can store the last 60 readings for two people and it has onebutton operation.
The BM55 can also warn you if it senses an irregular pulse. It has an indicator to tell you whether you’re adequately still and rested before taking your reading.
Who is it for? We aren’t getting any younger. Knowing your blood pressure numbers will help you monitor your overall health.
What does it cost? $61.82 Where can I get it? Amazon
Monos CleanPod UVC Sterilizer
What is it? This is a portable, hand-held sanitizer you use by waving it slowly over the surface youwant to clean. UV-C light waves are known to kill germs, and they are used to sanitize entire operating rooms, but I’m not aware of any tests that prove UV-C kills COVID-19.
Still, I’m a fan of the Monos CleanPod. Just don’t look into the light or try it out on your skin (seriously - it will damage soft tissue). The CleanPod is best for smaller objects, like phones or door handles. Here’s some FDA info on UV-C sanitizing.
Who is it for? Clean freaks and anyone who wants to kill germs.
What does it cost? $90 Where can I get it? Monos.com
AMMEX X3 Industrial Black Nitrile Gloves
What is it? I’ve been using nitrile gloves for years to keep my hands clean when I’m smokingmeat or working on cars, but they are also great for tasks like pumping gas. You have no idea how many people use those pumps each day or how often those pump handles are cleaned, if ever. I keep these inmy car, put on a pair before pumping gas, then toss them in the trash can when I’m through.
Who is it for? People who like to keep their hands as germfree as they can.
What does it cost? $30 for a box of 100 gloves.
Where can I get it? Amazon
My Mask Clip
What is it? Here’s a local product I didn’t know I needed, but it looks darn handy.
Walter’s Unique Designs of North Richland Hills makes a small plastic clip to keep your mask within reach so you don’t have to stuff it inside your pocket or purse. One side clips to your belt, a pocket or a purse, and the other side has a clip for your mask.
It’s not expensive and it’s very useful. It would make a good stocking stuffer.
Who is it for? Carrying a mask is a daily thing for everyone. What does it cost? They are three for $8.97, and they’re cheaper if you buy more. Where can I get it?org mymaskclip.