Looking for a list of items that are Made in China that might be out of stock soon—or about to get way more expensive? Here’s a comprehensive guide of what to stock up on now before prices rise or inventory dries up and the Walmart shelves are empty.
UPDATED for 2025 tariffs
NOTE: This post was originally published on February 20, 2020—just weeks before COVID-19 lockdowns began. I was right in predicting that the world was about to change. Now, five years later, we’re facing yet another wave of product shortages, shipping delays, and increased costs—this time due to the new 2025 tariffs that have been imposed on goods imported into the United States by President Trump.
If you’ve been following the news this year, you already know that a new round of tariffs on Chinese imports has been rolled out by the U.S. government. This is part of a broader trade strategy, but the ripple effect is already hitting consumers in the wallet.
And just like in 2020, shelves could go empty again—but not because of a pandemic. This time, it’s about cost and availability. Retailers are slashing inventories, shipping times are unpredictable, and prices are creeping up daily.
We’re incredibly dependent on China for goods—everything from socks to smartphones, toys to toothpaste. And while some companies are diversifying where they source products, it takes time.
These 2025 new tariffs are already affecting retail prices, and many businesses are quietly cutting product lines or limiting imports altogether. That means your favorite items may disappear entirely or come back at double the price.
This doesn’t mean you need to panic. But it does mean that stocking up now on everyday items might save you time, money, and hassle later. Here’s a breakdown of categories that could be impacted and suggestions on what to buy now while prices are still reasonable.
What household items are made in China?
My list contains household goods that would be a major inconvenience to normal, everyday life if they were not readily available at my local supermarket/Walmart/Target/Aldi or on Amazon Prime.
Medicines and Medical Equipment made in China
Over-the-Counter Meds:
Tylenol, ibuprofen, allergy pills, and cold/flu remedies are often manufactured with ingredients sourced from China. Even if final assembly is in the U.S., tariffs on raw materials can jack up prices fast. Stock up now on pain relievers, NSAIDS, antihistamines, and yours or your kids’ allergy medications. You know what meds your family uses most, so your medicine cabinet might look different than mine. Stock yours up with things you need.
Prescription Drugs:
The FDA has acknowledged potential pressure on pharmaceuticals and drug supply chains due to global manufacturing slowdowns and tariffs. Talk to your doctor about 90-day prescriptions and stock up now if you’re able.
Face Masks:
Medical grade face masks are still in high demand because Covid is still very much a thing. But even without that, masks are needed for a multitude of reasons from lawn mowing to wildfire smoke. N95 and KN95 masks are typically made in China. Look for an N95 respirator mask if you want to add some to your household supplies. I bought these masks plus extra filters for my family.
Germ Prevention—Hand Sanitizer, Antibacterial Wipes, Latex Gloves, etc:
Prices are creeping back up, especially for bulk disinfecting products used in schools and hospitals. This has been a rough flu season in the US (the regular ol’ flu, not Wuhan flu) so it wouldn’t hurt to stock up on extra hand sanitizer and Lysol wipes. It also wouldn’t hurt to have a stash of latex gloves at home as well. Even if they are not made in China, they are in high demand which can temporarily affect supplies.
You can find these products cheaper at Walmart, Aldi or Big Lots if you don’t want to order online. Worst case you can donate any extras to a local school classroom if you find that you don’t need them. Teachers are always in need of these items.
Toiletries, Beauty Products and Makeup Made in China
Makeup: Many mass-market cosmetics are still made in China (check your labels). If you’re loyal to a certain brand or shade, grab a backup. Check out this list of makeup made in China– is your favorite brand on it? If so, you might wanna buy an extra tube of foundation right now, or switch to one that is made in the USA. Loreal is made in the USA so thankfully my favorite mascara should be ok.
Sunscreen: That Coppertone Water Babies Spray-on Sunscreen you carry in your beach bag? Yep- it’s made in China. My family has super sensitive skin so we prefer Blue Lizard sunscreen. It’s a mineral sunscreen so it doesn’t contain oxybenzone and BONUS- it’s manufactured in Johnson City, Tennessee.
Toothpaste and Toothbrushes: Just because the box says “Made in the USA” doesn’t mean some ingredients/ packaging aren’t made elsewhere. If you need it, get it. It won’t go bad.
Toilet Paper: Ok, What about toilet paper? North America produces lots of our own paper products, but would you want to be stuck without TP for your family for a week? No? Me either. Just to be safe, every time I go to Aldi, I stick another huge pack in my cart for good measure. I figure we will use it eventually.
Better safe than sorry, amiright?
More household items to consider:
Back-to-School Supplies
- Why? China produces the bulk of school and office supplies: pens, markers, binders, lunchboxes, and backpacks. These are seasonal products that might not be prioritized in restocks during tariff disruptions.
- What to stock up on: Notebooks, crayons, pencils, markers, folders, glue sticks, backpacks, lunchboxes, pencil sharpeners.
Luggage & Travel Accessories
- Why? Suitcases, packing cubes, travel organizers, and TSA locks are often made in Chinese factories. If you’re planning a big trip in the coming years, now’s the time to check for deals.
- What to stock up on: Travel pillows, luggage, packing cubes, toiletry bags, RFID wallets, travel-size bottles.
Pet Products
- Why? Toys, grooming tools, leashes, and even pet supplements often originate in China. Tariffs will impact both price and availability for many common pet needs.
- What to stock up on: Extra leashes, grooming brushes, pet waste bags, food scoops, toys, collars, flea treatments, and food bowls.
Apparel: Clothing, Shoes & Accessories Made in China
Clothing:
You’d be hard-pressed to walk into a clothing store and find a complete outfit that was not tied to China in some way. Most of our fabrics are made there, and possibly shipped to another country for assembly. Either way, China is ground zero for lots of our apparel, shoes and fashion accessories. The days of Alibaba and Shein fast fashion may be over soon.
Kids Clothes and Shoes:
I don’t often buy new clothes for myself, but what about my kids? Expect price increases—especially in basics like socks, underwear, t-shirts, jeans, and activewear. Kids grow fast, so rather than buying new clothing, hit up your local kid’s consignment sales! The Spring Sales are coming soon and they are SLAP FULL of gently used items that are a fraction of the cost.
Outerwear:
If your kids’ coats are too small this winter, you might wanna go ahead and get one size larger for next winter. Gloves and boots, too, if you live in a place with harsh winters.
- What to stock up on: Clothing basics like socks, underwear, t-shirts, jeans, activewear, winter coats, waterproof gloves, snow boots, and tennis shoes.
Don’t forget Sewing items:
Even simple items like sewing needles, thread spools, buttons, and zippers are frequently made in China. With apparel and fast fashion getting more expensive, mending will become more cost-effective.
- What to stock up on: Sewing kits, elastic, snaps, buttons, thread, and fabric patches.
Fabrics, Furniture and Home Decor/ Essentials Made in China
Fabrics and Furniture: In that same textile vein- China produces a LOT of our office/ household / patio furniture and textile items such as appliances, bedding and kitchenware.
Home Appliances and Air conditioners: I would venture to say that the majority of the popular big box home stores in America are supplied by cargo ships full of inventory coming from China. While this is not something that most of us are buying new every day, it’s still something to consider if you are in the market for new furniture such as dining tables or sofas, refrigerators, washing machines, or bedding anytime soon.
Furniture: Thankfully there are still plenty of American made furniture cabinet makers to choose from, but expect to pay much higher prices.
Home Decor: If you’ve ever walked the aisles of HomeGoods or Hobby Lobby then you know that the majority of their products are made in China. Any mass-produced home decor is most likely coming from overseas.
Again, these are not life-or-death items but it might be a big disappointment if you’re planning to move, redecorate or buy gifts for a newlywed or new baby any time soon.
As someone who loves home decor, this is just something to consider. Here’s my advice- shop vintage or thrift stores for unique items instead of stuff that everyone else has on their walls. It gives your home way more character, anyway.
Remember: There are no tariffs at the consignment and antique stores!
Household Cleaning Items
- Why? China is a major source for things like mop heads, broom bristles, sponges, microfiber cloths, and cleaning tools. Expect rising prices or fewer choices under new tariffs.
- What to stock up on: Mop heads, microfiber cloths, dish brushes, cleaning gloves, sponges, scrubbers, squeegees.
Home Repair & DIY Tools
- Why? Many basic home maintenance items — like screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, and wall anchors — are manufactured in China or contain Chinese components. Even brands labeled “Made in Taiwan” or “Assembled in USA” may still use Chinese steel or electronics.
- What to stock up on: Replacement parts, basic tool kits, fasteners (screws, nails, anchors), measuring tapes, caulking guns, utility knives.
Kitchen Gadgets and Utensils
- Why? A surprising number of kitchen tools — garlic presses, mandolines, baking tools, spatulas — are sourced from China. Price increases could trickle down even from higher-end brands that outsource production.
- What to stock up on: Measuring cups, silicone baking mats, whisks, mixing bowls, food storage containers, peelers, tongs.
Phones, Laptops, Gaming Consoles and Electronics Made in China
iPhones/Macs: Apple is still deeply tied to Chinese manufacturing. Expect long lead times and possible price hikes on devices and accessories. If you need a new mobile phone, Macbook computer or chargers, now is the time to buy.
Computers and accessories: I’m thinking portable chargers, computers, thumb drives or external storage hard-drives are cheap and easy to stock up on now before tariffs triple the price.
Cameras/ SD Cards: Photographers: don’t get caught without your digital essentials if you need them for upcoming wedding seasons.
Electronics: Same for any electronic item like TVs or video game systems you might have been considering as a gift this year. Who knows what the prices will be after a few months of Chinese production lines being shut down.
Batteries: Lithium-ion batteries, including those used in power banks, electric toothbrushes, and cordless tools, are overwhelmingly manufactured in China. With 2025 tariffs in effect, prices are likely to rise across many battery-powered goods.
- What to stock up on: laptop chargers and cords, AA/AAA rechargeable batteries, power banks, backup phone chargers, hearing aid batteries, and cordless tool batteries.
Cars and Trucks and Things that Go
Car Parts- I will admit I know nothing about cars but I do know that even if they are “Made in the USA” there are likely parts being manufactured and shipped from elsewhere around the world.
I don’t think China has a huge impact or monopoly on the car industry but it might be something to consider if you’re in the market for a new vehicle this year. Do your research and see if it’s something that might affect you.
Vehicle Maintenance: Go get all your cars oil changed now or buy the supplies to do it yourself if you are not an Express Oil Change girl like me. Oil is not the problem, but oil filters? Who knows.
Toys, Party and Craft Supplies
Kids Toys: Barbie, Hot Wheels, LEGOs, you name it—many toy manufacturing companies such as Mattell still have Chinese components. Planning ahead for birthdays or Christmas is a smart move so you don’t get hit by added cost later.
Hot take: I know it seems far off, but if there is a certain MUST-HAVE item on your kid’s Christmas wish list this year and there is any chance it is produced in China, buy it now and stash it away until the big day. It cannot hurt to have it ready to go in advance rather than regretting it later if it’s no longer in stock. It’s gonna be an interesting holiday season for sure.
Party Supplies: Same goes for birthday party/ weddings /baby shower supplies. If your kid has a big birthday party or if you have a bridal/ baby/ wedding shower coming up this year, it wouldn’t hurt to go ahead and buy your most-needed party supplies now, especially if you have your heart set on a certain theme.
Craft Supplies: Again, the Hobby Lobby rule applies– think mass-produced paint brushes, rubber bands, beads, jewelry making kits, artificial flowers– all those trinkety little things made of plastic are likely to be made in China. You can live without them, sure, but if it’s something you’ve been wanting to buy for a while…. hopefully you’re catching my drift.
My attitude is to stop buying trinkety-crap altogether so they stop filling our landfills and oceans with unnecessary plastics, but that is another topic altogether.
Hobbies/ Sports Gear: Sure, some sports equipment brands are made in the USA, but many are not. From baseball gloves to bicycle helmets, check the labels. Many are subject to the new tariff increases. Check your kid’s sports gear to see if it’s made in China. Have they outgrown their bike helmets? If it’s wearing out or too small, put it on your to-do list to find a new one soon or buy used if you can.
Puzzles, Board Games, and Educational Toys
- Why? Many puzzles and children’s educational tools are printed or produced in China, even for brands you may assume are local.
- What to stock up on: Board games, learning kits, flashcards, math games, STEM toys, puzzles.
Emergency Preparedness Supplies
- Why? Items like emergency radios, solar lanterns, thermal blankets, and camping stoves often originate in China. These are low-frequency purchases but critical in emergencies — and tariffs could disrupt them when needed most.
- What to stock up on: Flashlights, emergency radios, solar lanterns, water filters (like LifeStraw), thermal blankets, multi-tools, crank-powered gadgets.
Waste Not, Want Not
I would also like to say that I’m not advocating that you stockpile an insane amount of these items and cause a blossoming problem to become even bigger. Be smart and use your own judgment based on your own family’s needs. Don’t be a hoarder.
We as Americans have WAY too much stuff in our lives already. Maybe, rather than buying new things, we could learn to do without all the overwhelming consumerism for a while.
Take a lesson from our grandmothers and make our stuff last longer. Buy things used and second-hand. Save money and pay off debts instead of running out to buy the latest shiny new thing on the market.
This mentality would not only help us survive a crash in the Chinese goods market but also help reduce the insane amount of single-use plastics that we Americans go through every day. But as I said, that’s a topic for another day.
Finally, let me say that I’m not claiming to be an expert on the US economy or global supply chain, nor do I intend for this to become a political statement about our reliance on Chinese goods.
This post is simply to give you some ideas of things that might be affected by the tariffs in the short-term so you’re not caught unaware.
I’m trying really hard not to sound like Chicken Little running around saying the sky is falling. But if it is, please buy your family an umbrella, because your current one was likely made in China.
I do consider myself to be an expert at Repurposing, Reusing, and Upcycling home decor, so feel free to dig through my archives for ideas on how to decorate your home without buying a single new thing!
This is not a call to hoard. It’s a reminder to be a mindful consumer. If you know your family will use it—and it’s made overseas—now may be the time to buy.
Let’s be smart. Let’s be prepared. And let’s all breathe a little easier knowing we planned ahead.
