Most rehabs have a very strict dress code, so be aware of any restrictions while you’re packing. If you’re unsure about how to pack for the weather, pack layering options, like T-shirts, sweaters, cardigans and jackets. Keep in mind, space in your room may be limited, so try not to overpack.
You should have access to a laundry machine at your center, so a week’s worth of clothing should be enough. Be sure to pack clothes that are easy to wash and do not require special care, such as dry cleaning.
Be sure to bring seven days worth of comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, including:
- shoes: comfy shoes for everyday wear, tennis shoes for activities/sports and flip flops for the shower
- shirts: if bringing tank tops, make sure you also pack cardigans to wear with them to comply with your center’s dress code
- pants
- shorts: may have to be a certain length to comply with your center’s dress code
- one or two “dressy” outfits for special occasions, like Family Night
- socks
- undergarments
- a bathing suit: a one piece is usually required for women, trunks for men
- pajamas
- a coat/jacket
- a bath robe
- a belt
- a hat: your center may not allow hats indoors
- slippers
Personal Hygiene and Beauty Products to Pack
Most rehabs require all toiletries and beauty products to be completely alcohol-free. Others will allow you to bring products that do not have alcohol listed in the first three ingredients. Do not bring aerosols.
Bring thirty days worth of toiletries and beauty products, including:
- deodorant
- toothbrush and toothpaste
- shampoo and conditioner
- hair styling products (pump hair spray only)
- comb/brush
- feminine hygiene products
- shaving cream
- lotion
- sunscreen
- makeup
Items You Should Not Bring to Rehab
All rehabs prohibit certain items and have strict rules. They do so to ensure your safety and to create an excellent environment for your recovery. It varies by center, but the following items are almost always banned:
- Drugs and alcohol
- Narcotics or prohibited prescriptions
- Weapons (guns, knives, scissors, sharp objects, etc.)
- Pornography
- Food or drinks
- Toiletries and beauty products that contain alcohol (mouthwash, perfume, etc.)
- Electronic cigarettes
- Unapproved or previously opened OTC medications
- Nail polish, polish remover or synthetic nail related products
- Video games and DVDs
- Sporting equipment
- Revealing clothing (tank tops, sleeveless shirts, midriff bearing tops, etc.)
- Aerosols
- Cleaning supplies (bleach, ammonia, etc.)
- Electronics (televisions, gaming consoles, etc.)
- Games and playing cards
- Candles and incense
- Clothing with profanity or references to drugs, alcohol or violence
You may be surprised by some of the items on this list, like games and playing cards, video games and DVDs and sporting equipment. These items are prohibited to help you avoid distractions and allow you to focus on your recovery. Your center will have items like these available to you during certain times.
You’ll also find that outside food and drinks are banned because many centers maintain a moderate sugar and caffeine environment. Three meals a day, snacks and beverages will be provided to you. If you have special dietary needs, notify your rehab before you’re admitted.
Some Rehabs Allow These Items, Others Do Not
Each treatment center has their own policies, so some rehabs may prohibit an item that’s allowed at another. While many things are prohibited across the board, the following may be allowed at some facilities:
- Cell phone and laptop. If your rehab allows these items, you will likely only have access to them at certain times. Make sure you don’t forget your power cords!
- Cigarettes. If you smoke, some facilities will allow you to bring cigarettes. These centers usually have a limit on how many cartons you can bring.
- Vitamins and over the counter medications. These must be new and unopened.
- Gum. Must be unopened and sealed.
- MP3 player or CD player. Devices without internet access or speakers may be allowed.
- Camera.For those who are shutterbugs, some centers allow cameras that are not internet capable.
- Disposable razor or electric razor. Razors can be dangerous, so some centers prohibit them completely. However, more often than not, disposable razors are allowed.
- Nail clippers.Nail clippers are banned at some centers, but not all.
- Items to make your room feel more like home. You may be allowed to bring your own bedding, pillows and other items to make your room more comfortable. Make sure to double check with your rehab before packing any of these items.