6 Surprise Disaster-Kit Essentials

"You can tie almost anything with it—it's the Swiss Army knife of string," says Bill Begal, president of Begal Enterprises Inc., a disaster-restoration company in Rockville, Maryland. In a pinch, use this super-strong, waterproof filament to tie a flapping door closed or secure a tarp over a broken car window. READ: Life After Sandy: Tales from the Jersey Shore (This Old House)

Cheaper than tarps, these water-resistant spill-catchers can provide an instant island of clean, especially after a disaster where dirt and debris litter the floor, says Abby Harrison, a Hurricane Ike survivor who teaches emergency prep classes in Houston. READ: Smart, Safe Storm and Snow Cleanup Tips (This Old House)

A hand-crank radio is a standard emergency item, but one that also charges small gadgets and serves as a flashlight packs three vital services in a single package. Try the Rover by Eton ($50; brookstone.com), which has a USB cell-phone charger and an LED light—brighter and more impact-resistant than an incandescent, says the Red Cross's Keith Robertory. Just 90 seconds of cranking buys you 15 minutes of power. (This Old House)

Staying clean when water is in short supply doesn't have to be a challenge. Baby wipes work wonders at removing grime, whether you want to use them to sub for a shower or clean food-prep surfaces (for this, get lotion-free versions). (This Old House)

"When cleaning up after a storm, the last thing you want is to get pierced by broken glass or a rusty nail with flood water on it," says Robertory. Cushioned gloves will keep your hands dry and protected. Look for options with rubber or leather grips on the palms to prevent them from becoming slippery. (This Old House)