Residents of Russian cities, including St. Petersburg, grapple with annual hot water outages, prompting resourceful strategies for maintaining hygiene. While water heaters offer a solution, many seek alternative methods to cope during these periods.

For those without hot water access, various methods can help maintain cleanliness. Visiting friends or relatives in areas with hot water is a popular option, requiring advance notice and the customary bringing of gifts.

Engaging in sports activities at facilities outside the outage zone, such as gyms, fitness centers, and swimming pools, provides an opportunity for showering. However, this method incurs costs for classes or subscriptions.

Public baths offer an inexpensive alternative to luxurious saunas, providing a thorough cleaning experience.

For quick clean-ups, dry shampoo is a convenient solution. This aerosol absorbs sebum, making hair appear less dirty. It is crucial to use dry shampoo correctly and sparingly, as overuse can cause scalp problems.

Drawing inspiration from astronauts, wet towels can be used for body cleansing. This method mimics the hygiene practices on the International Space Station, where traditional showers are impractical.

To avoid washing dishes in cold water, consider temporarily dining at inexpensive cafes or using disposable utensils. Alternatively, wrapping plates and mugs in cellophane bags offers an “extreme” solution to minimize dishwashing.