Shopping Made in the USA is easier than you think! by Barbara L. Steinberg
Well, it was easier than I think! Or thought. As it turns out, I was already buying local, shopping
local, eating local more than I realized. And then it just becomes first nature...not second. There were a handful of items that could not be found: computer battery and brassieres are the two items that come to mind. Oh, yes, a replacement for my electric toothbrush that died early into the challenge.
Overall, it was a stress free process. I had a lot of fun and found some really great items. New cookie sheets and re-usable plastic storage containers at the Grocery Outlet. Buying second-hand giving new life to discarded goods -- and still finding many items USA made.
Shoes! This is nearly impossible. They either cost hundreds of dollars or you have to buy them online -- or both. I have returned most online shoe purchases because they didn't fit. I have friend up north who crafts custom-made work and cowboy boots, but what I need are everyday comfort shoes and stylish dress shoes. Anyway...
The year is winding down. Damn nearly over. It's been a pleasure shopping U.S.A. I have met so many interesting people and discovered lots of amazing companies. So here's the short list of some favorite Made in California/USA for 2012:
- Andalou Naturals - A purely accidental find at Grocery Outlet. Shampoos, conditioners, and lotions. Absolutely yummy. It just shows that these products are everywhere. You just have to read labels and ask a few simple questions.
- NutriBiotic - Made in Lakeport, CA, I discovered this great non-soap skin cleanser. They make a number of body care, supplement, and protein products. I am allergic to many additives and also recently developed an allergy to coconut, which is in many products. I am grateful to have discovered both items.
- Slogger Shoes - My garden boots of ten years or more finally cracked. I needed a new pair and fast since California's winter rains arrived with a vengeance. Who knew I could find something so fun and waterproof Made in California USA? Amazing I got them on sale AND free shipping.
- The "Traveler®" Shower Curtain/Liner - The liners I have bought for years are made in China and cost less than have the price. BUT...this brand is higher quality and I am certain will last many years longer. The liner is now being carried by U.S. Mart in Venice, Florida.
The other thing I discovered was amazing Made in the USA customer service when contacting the companies. Almost without fail, the staff or owners were friendly and open to answering all my questions. Especially for items ordered online.
Of course, almost all of my food was local or as close to local as possible. Almost nothing that didn't say USA! It really changes your shopping habits. So many snack crackers were from other countries. Cereals. Sweets. Whatever. No disrespect to our international trade. I continue to support local farms here in the Sacramento region including the Capay and Suisun valleys. Bread, meat, cheeses, olive oil, and wines -- all local. Although I can't control some of this when eating out, I always ask -- California, USA, or other?
Earlier this year I was excited to discover Made in Montana while vacationing in the Big Sky state. The only gifts I bought were Montana made including an incredible Cream of the West cereal.
I still get so excited when I discover something so simple as Uranus Soy Shorts one of my first purchases in early 2012. Still wearing and loving my Made in the USA shorts of soy and jumping for joy into 2013 -- just around the corner -- and with it more adventures shopping Made in the USA.