With the growing tariff war between the United States and China, we may start seeing shortages or higher prices on common household items. Many everyday products are made or have parts made in China, and if tariffs continue to rise or trade slows down, it could affect what we can buy and how much it costs.
It’s smart to prepare ahead of time and stock up on items your family uses every day. Having a one-year supply means you won’t need to worry if shelves go empty or prices go up. Here are some common items to consider storing, along with recommended amounts for a family of four.
1. Shampoo
Why: Many shampoos are manufactured in other countries, and/or many of their components are.
Recommended Amount:
- 1 bottle per month, per person
2. Toothpaste
Why: Ingredients and packaging often come from China.
Recommended Amount:
- 12 tubes per person (1 tube/month) = 48 tubes/year for a family of 4
3. Toothbrushes
Why: Most are made in China.
Recommended Amount:
- 4 toothbrushes per person/year = 16 per family of 4
4. Soap (bar and liquid)
Why: Some ingredients and packaging are imported.
Recommended Amount:
- Bar soap: 36 bars per person/year = 144 bars
- Liquid hand soap: 12 bottles per person = 48 bottles
5. Laundry Detergent
Why: Containers, chemicals, or finished products may come from China.
Recommended Amount:
- 12 large bottles or boxes = 1 per month
6. Dish Soap
Why: Same reason as laundry detergent—imports and ingredients.
Recommended Amount:
- 12 bottles = 1 per month
7. Trash Bags
Why: Most brands are made overseas.
Recommended Amount:
- 12 large boxes = 1 per month
8. Batteries
Why: Many are manufactured or assembled in China.
Recommended Amount:
- AA: 96
- AAA: 48
- D: 24
- 9V: 12 (adjust based on what your devices use)
9. Light Bulbs
Why: LEDs especially, are made in China.
Recommended Amount:
- 24–36 bulbs, depending on how many fixtures you have
10. Over-the-Counter Medicines
Why: A large percentage of medicine ingredients are sourced from China.
Recommended Amount:
- Pain relievers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen): 4 large bottles per person
- Cold/flu medicine: 4 boxes per person
- Allergy pills: 1 bottle per 90 days = 4 bottles per person
- Vitamins: 12 bottles per person (1 per month)
Final Tips:
- Store items in a cool, dry place.
- Keep an inventory so you know what you have.
- Rotate supplies to keep things fresh.
- Look for sales and buy in bulk when possible.
Even if nothing changes overnight, having a year’s supply of basic items gives you peace of mind. Whether it’s a tariff war or just rising prices, your family will be ready.
Take care all –
Rourke
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