Essential Household Items for Stocking Up

Many understand the idea of stocking up for unexpected emergencies, whether that is natural or economic disaster or other issues. Often, however, there are things that are "food related" but not food, and it's easy to 'forget' them until we don't have them. Make sure these items are stocked up in your supply area!

Hand operated can openers and whisks or hand egg beaters. Many of the $1 can openers do not last for more than a few times - get a good quality one that will last! Remember if you have six months of canned goods it doesn't help if you can't get to it!

Among the first items to disappear from store shelves will be charcoal and lighter fluid. Be sure to have these on hand along with grills for cooking. If you don't use charcoal make sure there is plenty of wood stocked up. If you have a gas stove make sure you have propane to go with it. Small propane cylinders will also sell out very quickly.

Water containers are among the most urgent of items, important for availability of water. In an emergency there may not be drinkable water available, so it's important to have water on hand. Remember to consider pets in your water storage too! Use food grade containers for storage.

Cast iron cookware is a durable and efficient means of cooking. Good cast iron cookware, such as the USA made brands, is not cheap but will last a long time! Skillets, Dutch ovens and a variety of other types are available, but with a little experience and practice you can make pizza in a covered pan.

"Strike anywhere" boxed wooden matches should be stored and kept dry.

Insulated ice chests are handy for keeping food cold. Stock up on plenty of paper plates, cups and plastic utensils. Camping type plates and gear is also good to have on hand. Aluminum foil, both regular and heavy duty, will be needed both for cooking and perhaps other uses. Toilet paper, tissues and paper towels are other items we take for granted being there. They are good to have stocked up especially in emergency situations.

Don't forget washboards, buckets and clothesline as a means to do laundry.

Rain gear is also essential - good quality rubber boots, and quality heavy footwear. These make it more comfortable to navigate to get food and function.

Planning and stocking up may be just for a "rainy day" or a job layoff - but if it's more than that or just for that, you'll be glad to have been prepared! It makes the bad times much more bearable.