How do you make a DIY quarantine room in your home? – Delta Prepper

How Do You Make a DIY quarantine room in Your Home.

Part 1: Understanding the Need & Choosing the Right Space

Imagine this: it’s a regular weeknight, maybe you’re settling in with your family for dinner or catching up on your favorite show. Suddenly, someone starts feeling feverish and develops a cough. You check their temperature—it’s a bit high. In today’s world, that’s enough to set off alarm bells. What’s your first move. Are you ready to create a safe quarantine room at a moment’s notice.

If your heart skipped a beat just thinking about it, you’re not alone. The need for a quarantine room can sneak up on anyone, but with the right knowledge, you can turn any corner of your home into a safe haven in no time. In this guide, I’m here to walk you through the entire process. We’ll start with why a quarantine space matters, and then I’ll show you how to choose and prepare the perfect spot—even if you don’t have a lot of room to spare. By the end of this series, you’ll feel confident, prepared, and ready to protect your loved ones.

Why You Might Need a Home Quarantine Room

Let’s face it—none of us expected to become experts in infection control at home. But since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly every household has faced the reality of needing to isolate a sick family member. And it’s not just COVID; flu season, stomach bugs, or even exposure to other contagious illnesses can make home quarantine a necessity.

But what does “quarantine room” really mean. Put simply, it’s a designated area where someone who is either sick or potentially exposed to an illness can stay apart from others. A proper quarantine space helps reduce the risk of spreading germs within your home, especially if you live with people who are older, immunocompromised, or have chronic health conditions.

To put things into perspective, the World Health Organization reports that up to 80% of COVID-19 cases worldwide were managed outside of hospitals, often in home quarantine setups. That’s millions of families, just like yours and mine, doing their best to keep each other safe. And here’s another eye-opening stat: According to a CDC survey, less than half (44%) of Americans said they felt “very prepared” to isolate at home if someone got sick. So, if you’re feeling uncertain, you’re definitely not alone.

Isolation vs. Quarantine: What’s the Difference.

You’ll hear both terms thrown around a lot, so let’s clear it up:

Isolation is for those who are already sick and need to stay away from healthy people.
Quarantine is for those who may have been exposed and need to stay put until it’s clear they’re not contagious.

In both cases, the goal is the same—preventing the spread of illness within your household. The basic requirements.

A separate room, access to a bathroom (if possible), and some essential supplies.

Real-Life Quarantine Stories

Let me share a quick story: When my friend Sarah’s husband came down with COVID-19 last winter, she had to quarantine him in their guest room. With a toddler at home and both parents balancing remote work, it wasn’t easy. But by setting strict boundaries and keeping communication open, they managed to keep everyone else healthy. Sarah told me, “It was stressful, but having a plan made all the difference. ”

These situations can be overwhelming, and it’s perfectly normal to feel anxious or even scared. Don’t forget to practice self-compassion and talk openly with your family about your worries. Setting up a quarantine room is just as much about maintaining peace of mind as it is about following health protocols.

Choosing and Preparing the Right Space

Alright, now let’s get practical. The first step is picking the best possible room for your quarantine space. If you have the luxury of a guest room with its own bathroom, that’s the jackpot. But if not, don’t worry—you can adapt almost any space with a bit of creativity.

What to Look for in a Quarantine Room

Ideally, you want a room that:

Can be closed off from the rest of the house (a door is a must)
Has its own bathroom, or at least is close to one
Gets good ventilation (a window you can open is a bonus)
Offers direct access to the outside (like a basement or a room with a separate entrance), if possible

But let’s be real—most of us don’t have extra space lying around. In apartments or smaller homes, you might have to get creative. Maybe it’s a den, a large walk-in closet, or even sectioning off part of the living room with a room divider or heavy curtains.

Prepping the Room for Comfort and Safety

Once you’ve chosen your space, it’s time to clear out anything unnecessary. You want to minimize clutter to make cleaning and disinfecting easier (and to avoid contaminating extra stuff). Remove excess furniture, rugs, decorative pillows—anything that isn’t essential for daily living.

Now, set up the basics for a comfortable stay:

A place to sleep (bed, air mattress, or even a fold-out cot)
Clean bedding and spare pillows
A small table or tray for food and drinks
Personal touches, like a favorite book or family photos, to help the person feel less isolated

Remember, the goal is to make this space both safe and as welcoming as possible for however long quarantine lasts—which, according to CDC guidelines, is usually at least 5-10 days depending on the illness.

Up next, we’ll talk about the essential supplies you’ll need and the safety measures to put in place—so you can feel fully prepared for whatever comes your way. Let’s keep building

on that foundation and dive into the nuts and bolts of setting up your DIY quarantine room.

Essential Supplies and Safety Measures

Now that you’ve chosen and prepped your quarantine space, it’s time to stock it up. Think of this a little like packing for a very unusual staycation—one focused on health and safety above all else.

Here’s the master checklist of must-have supplies:

Thermometer: Monitoring temperature daily is key to tracking illness progression or improvement.
Masks and gloves: Both for the person in quarantine (if they need to leave the room) and for anyone providing care or cleaning.
Hand sanitizer: Place a bottle both inside the room and just outside the door.
Disinfecting wipes and sprays: For frequent cleaning of high-touch surfaces (think doorknobs, light switches, remotes).
Tissues and personal hygiene products: Stock enough so the person doesn’t need to leave the room unnecessarily.
Trash can with a lid and disposable liners: To safely contain waste and make daily removal easy.
Laundry bag or hamper: Preferably one that can be washed or disinfected.
Drinking water and non-perishable snacks: Keep a supply in the room so the person can be largely self-sufficient.
Phone charger, entertainment (books, tablet, games): Emotional well-being is vital, and boredom makes quarantine harder.
Dedicated eating utensils, dishes, and cleaning supplies: Ideally, use disposable items or thoroughly sanitized reusables.
Medications: Any daily prescriptions, symptom relief meds (like acetaminophen), and a list of emergency contacts.

Food and Water Logistics:
If possible, leave meals at the door to minimize contact. Use a tray that can easily be cleaned, and wear a mask when delivering food. Some families create a “quarantine meal kit” with individually wrapped snacks and a large water bottle, reducing the need for constant kitchen runs.

Setting Clear Boundaries:
Communication is everything. Let everyone know which room is quarantined, and post a friendly sign as a reminder (especially helpful for kids). Establish house rules for who can enter, and when, and how waste and laundry will be handled. If you live with small children or pets, use barriers—like a baby gate or taped floor markings—to reinforce boundaries.

Safe Laundry and Waste Management:
Handle laundry with gloves, and avoid shaking dirty linens (which can spread germs through the air). Wash everything in the warmest water possible, and disinfect laundry baskets after use. For waste, tie up bags securely and dispose of them with minimal handling.

Making these preparations ahead of time—or at least having the checklist handy—can make a world of difference when you’re in the thick of it.

Cleaning, Disinfection, and Air Quality

Keeping your quarantine room clean isn’t about perfection; it’s about consistency and being smart with your hygiene habits.

Daily Cleaning Routine:
Focus on “high-touch” surfaces—things people touch most often, like doorknobs, light switches, countertops, phones, and remotes. Clean these at least once a day with EPA-approved disinfectants or a bleach solution. Bathrooms should get special attention: If the quarantined person is sharing a bathroom, try to clean it after each use and ensure good ventilation.

Disinfectants and Tools:
Look for disinfectants labeled as effective against viruses, such as Clorox, Lysol, or a homemade solution (⅓ cup bleach per gallon of water). Always follow instructions for contact time (how long it needs to stay wet on the surface). Use gloves when cleaning, and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.

Air Circulation Matters:
Open windows if the weather permits—fresh air helps dilute airborne germs. Use a fan to direct airflow out of the room, or consider a portable HEPA air purifier. According to the EPA, HEPA filters can remove up to 99. 97% of particles that are 0. 3 microns in size, which includes many bacteria and viruses.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Masks are a must when entering or cleaning the quarantine room, especially if you are caring for someone with a respiratory illness.

Gloves are key for handling laundry and trash. Remember to remove PPE carefully and wash your hands immediately after.

If this all sounds a bit intense, remember: Routine is your friend. Creating a daily schedule for cleaning, food delivery, and laundry can help everyone know what to expect and reduce anxiety.

Home Quarantine by the Numbers

Let’s put some real-world numbers behind all these preparations:

Prevalence: During the initial waves of COVID-19, up to 41% of U. households reported isolating at least one member at home, according to a Pew Research Center survey.
Effectiveness: Home quarantine, when properly followed, can reduce in-home virus transmission by 50% or more, according to a Lancet meta-analysis (2020).
Duration: Most home quarantines last 5–10 days (CDC guidelines), but the duration can vary based on the illness and local health department recommendations.
Preparedness: Only 44% of Americans said they felt “very prepared” to set up a home quarantine room (CDC, 2020), but 81% said they would follow guidelines if someone in their house became sick.
Quote for context: The World Health Organization notes, “Effective home isolation and consistent household precautions are among the most important steps in slowing the spread of infectious diseases. ”

Example:
In one study of households affected by COVID-19, those who set up a separate room, used masks, and practiced regular disinfection saw a secondary infection rate of only 19%, compared to 45% where no precautions were taken.

Now you’re

ready to take your DIY quarantine room from “makeshift” to truly effective. In our previous sections, we walked through the why, where, and how—covering the essentials and safety protocols that can make all the difference during home isolation. For Part 3, let’s take a breather from the logistics, and dive into some quirky quarantine room trivia, inspiring stats, and a spotlight on one of the top experts sharing home health wisdom online.

Fun Facts: 10 Things You (Probably) Didn’t Know About DIY Quarantine Rooms

The Word ‘Quarantine’ Has Ancient Roots: The term comes from the Italian “quaranta giorni,” meaning “forty days. ” During the Black Plague, ships arriving in Venice had to wait offshore for 40 days before anyone could disembark—a practice that inspired today’s isolation concepts.

Bathrooms Are Game Changers: Did you know that having a dedicated bathroom attached to your quarantine room can cut household transmission rates by as much as half, according to a CDC study. If you can’t swing it, scheduling and cleaning after each use is the next best thing.

HEPA Filters Are Superheroes: Portable HEPA air purifiers, now found in many homes, were first developed during the Manhattan Project to protect scientists from airborne radioactive particles. Today, they’re a household staple for trapping viruses and bacteria.

Multi-Purpose Furniture Saves the Day: During the height of the pandemic, sales of futons, fold-out couches, and room dividers spiked as families scrambled to set up temporary quarantine spaces—even in studio apartments.

You Can ‘Quarantine’ Pets, Too: Both the CDC and the American Veterinary Medical Association recommend isolating pets if someone in the house is sick, since animals can sometimes carry or transmit certain diseases.

Sunlight Is a Natural Disinfectant: Opening windows isn’t just about fresh air—ultraviolet rays from sunlight can help reduce the presence of certain viruses and bacteria on surfaces and in the air.

The Ultimate ‘Quarantine Kit’: Some families create a dedicated box with everything needed for a possible quarantine—think of it like a first-aid kit, but for home isolation. This can save precious time and stress when someone falls ill unexpectedly.

Digital Doorbells for Safe Delivery: Touchless doorbells and video calls have become clever ways for families to communicate with quarantined loved ones (and drop off meals) while keeping their distance.

Room Makeovers Go Viral: The hashtag #quarantineroom makeover has thousands of shares on TikTok and Instagram, with people swapping creative tips for temporary decor, comfort hacks, and even uplifting window messages for neighbors.

Mental Health Matters Most: Studies show that adding personal touches—photos, favorite blankets, or even a plant—can significantly improve mood for those in quarantine, reducing feelings of loneliness and stress.

Author Spotlight: Dr. Saskia Popescu

If you want to dig deeper into the science (and art. ) of home quarantine, look no further than Dr. Saskia Popescu. An infectious disease epidemiologist and infection preventionist, Dr. Popescu has become a go-to resource for families trying to stay safe at home.

Background: Dr. Popescu holds a PhD in Biodefense and is a professor at George Mason University. She’s worked in hospital infection control, public health policy, and even consults for major media outlets.
Why She’s a Standout: Her blog and Twitter presence (@SaskiaPopescu) are chock-full of practical tips on setting up home isolation, using personal protective equipment correctly, and even managing mental health during quarantine. She breaks down complex topics in a way anyone can understand—no science degree required.
Real-World Advice: In one article, Dr. Popescu recommends making a “comfort kit” for your quarantine space, complete with snacks, entertainment, and a notebook to track symptoms or keep a journal. She often reminds readers that the goal is not just to protect others, but also to care for the well-being of the person in isolation.

Her message. “Preparation is empowering. Even small steps—like having a plan and talking openly with your household—can make a huge difference in keeping everyone safe and calm. ”

As you can see, setting up a DIY quarantine room is about much more than following a checklist; it’s also about creativity, compassion, and a bit of household ingenuity. Whether you’re prepping ahead or responding in real time, knowing some of these fun facts and having expert-backed advice in your back pocket can make the process less daunting.

So, what about those lingering questions—like how to handle shared spaces, or what to do if you only have a studio apartment. Stay tuned, because in our next section, we’ll tackle the most frequently asked questions about creating and managing a home quarantine room, including troubleshooting tips for common dilemmas.

Part 4: Frequently Asked Questions & Final Thoughts

By now, you know the “why,” “what,” and “how” of setting up a DIY quarantine room in your home. You’ve seen real-life examples, essential supply lists, expert insights, and even some quirky trivia. But if you’re like most folks, you still have a few “what ifs” and “how do I…” questions bouncing around. Let’s wrap up this guide with the top 10 most frequently asked questions—and real, practical answers to each.

1. What if I don’t have a spare room for quarantine.

No extra bedroom.

Use what you have. Section off part of your living space using a portable room divider, curtains, or even tall furniture to create a barrier. Prioritize a spot with a door or at least some physical separation. Make clear boundaries—think signs, floor tape, or even a “do not enter” note—to remind everyone which area is off-limits.

2. How can I keep the rest of my household safe if we share a bathroom.

If sharing a bathroom is unavoidable, set a schedule so the quarantined person uses it last, and disinfect high-touch surfaces (toilet handle, faucet, doorknobs) after every use. Keep their personal toiletries separate and stored in their room. Open a window or run an exhaust fan for extra ventilation.

3. What supplies should I keep inside the quarantine room.

Stock the basics: water, snacks, thermometer, tissues, medications, hand sanitizer, masks, entertainment (books/tablet), and a laundry bag. Include things for comfort—a favorite pillow, cozy blanket, and maybe a plant or photo. This helps the quarantined person feel less isolated and more at home.

4. How do I safely deliver food and supplies to someone in quarantine.

Leave items just outside the door and let the person know (by text, knock, or video call) when it’s there. Wear a mask and use disposable gloves if handling used dishes or trash. Avoid direct contact, and disinfect trays or handles after each delivery.

5. How should laundry and trash be handled.

The person in quarantine should put dirty laundry and trash in sealed bags. Caregivers should wear gloves and masks when collecting and washing these items. Wash laundry on the hottest cycle appropriate for the fabric, and immediately wash your hands after handling.

6. How do I support the mental health of someone in quarantine.

Isolation can be lonely. Encourage frequent check-ins by video call or text. Send notes, treats, or small gifts to brighten their day. If it’s a child, slip in some coloring books or a stuffed animal.

As Proverbs 16:24 (NKJV) reminds us, “Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the bones. ” Kindness and connection are just as important as physical supplies.

7. How do I keep my home’s air safer when someone is quarantined.

Maximize ventilation by opening windows in both the quarantine space and the rest of your home. If possible, use a HEPA air purifier in the room. Place a fan in the window to direct air outside, reducing the risk of airborne germs spreading.

8. What if a family member needs care and can’t be fully isolated.

If you must enter the room to care for someone, always wear a mask and gloves, and keep visits brief. Maintain physical distance as much as possible, and wash your hands thoroughly after every interaction. If possible, designate just one person as the caregiver to limit exposure for others.

9. How long should someone stay in a home quarantine room.

Follow the latest public health guidelines, which vary by illness. For COVID-19, the CDC often recommends at least 5 days of isolation after symptom onset or a positive test, plus more if symptoms persist or a fever remains. Always check with your healthcare provider or local health department for current advice.

10. Can I reuse masks, gloves, or cleaning supplies in the quarantine room.

Disposable masks and gloves should not be reused. Cloth masks must be washed after every use. Use clean gloves each time you enter or clean the room. Cleaning cloths should be laundered in hot water, and disposable wipes should be thrown away after use.

Tying It All Together

Setting up a DIY quarantine room in your home can feel overwhelming, but as we’ve covered through these four parts, it’s truly about preparation, flexibility, and a little creativity. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden illness or just want to be ready for the unexpected, the key is to plan ahead, communicate openly with your household, and keep both physical and emotional well-being in mind.

Remember, even small efforts—creating a cozy space, keeping routines, sharing uplifting words—make a huge difference. “Let all that you do be done with love” (1 Corinthians 16:14, NKJV), a gentle reminder that caring for our families, especially in times of sickness, is an act of compassion and strength.

If you’re looking for expert-backed advice and up-to-date home health tips, don’t miss Dr. Saskia Popescu’s blog and Twitter feed (@SaskiaPopescu). She breaks down complex topics and offers reassurance that with preparation, any home can be a safe haven.

Ready to take your next step. Save this guide, discuss your quarantine plan with your loved ones, and build your own “quarantine kit” today. You’ve got the knowledge, now put it into action—your family’s safety and peace of mind are worth it.