As Metro Manila and other high-risk regions in the country prepare to revert back to ECQ or Enhanced Community Quarantine due to the threat of the COVID-19 Delta variant, it’s understandable that many moms and homemakers are scrambling to get their households ready by stocking up on basic needs. There’s no need to panic, though, because essential establishments—including SM supermarkets—will remain fully operational, along with pharmacies, medical supply stores, and food service providers. (You can check SM’s updated mall hours here.)
But of course, it’s also good to be prepared by ensuring you have enough supplies at home, as this will minimize the need to go out and prevent further transmission. Not sure what to prioritize? We’ve listed down the important things you should have in your cart as well as a few that you can skip (for now!) when you visit your nearest SM grocery. You can also conveniently shop online through the SM Markets website or order through the SM Malls Online app, and choose between delivery or pick-up options.
What to buy
Dry goods
These include the ever important rice, as well as other dry staples like pasta or noodles, cereals, sugar, flour, salt, and other spices. Aside from being easy to cook, they generally last long so you can get them in bulk.
Perfect for whipping up quick ulam, canned food will definitely come in handy on busy days when you don’t have time to cook. Apart from the usual sardines and canned meats, you can also stock up on canned soups and broths, which are great for rainy or “sick” days.
Nothing beats fresh food, but make sure you only buy enough to fit in your fridge or freezer (for meat and seafood) or are good for about a week (for fruits and vegetables), so they don’t end up going to waste.
This can range from frozen meats like hotdog, bacon, and tapa to frozen cooked meals that just need to be thawed and reheated before serving.
Healthy snacks
It’s smart to have a ready supply of snacks, like biscuits, dried fruits, and nuts, especially if you have always-hungry kids at home.
Drinking Water
Aside from getting your usual ration of safe drinking water from your neighborhood supplier, don’t forget to stock up on bottled water a.k.a. quick grab-and-go options in case of emergencies.
Medicine and other health essentials
While pharmacies remain open, it’s good to get your prescriptions for over-the-counter medications filled up for at least two weeks. The same goes for meds for common illnesses (especially for kids), such as cough and cold medicine, paracetamol for fever, and antihistamines for allergies. Make sure you also have your stock of vitamins as well as new normal essentials, such as masks, nasal saline sprays (for nose hygiene) and antibacterial mouthwash. You can shop for all of these at Watsons stores or order online here.
Baby supplies and pet essentials
Don’t forget the diapers, wipes, baby food, and other must-haves! You can shop for all things baby at Baby Company—you can get free shipping for orders worth P3,000 and up when you shop online. Got a fur-baby instead? Ensure you have enough pet food, vitamins, and bath essentials on hand, too.
It’s also a good idea to prepare some fun toys and activities at home to keep your little ones (even your pets!) from getting bored, like this Tool Box Wooden Play Set and Colored Plastic Balls from Toy Kingdom.
Cleaning and disinfecting supplies
The most basic ones, of course, are hand soap and alcohol—for hand hygiene. Other household staples include bath soap, shampoo, laundry detergent, and dishwashing soap. To keep the home germ- and virus-free, it’s also good to invest in cleaning tools, like disinfectant sprays and bleach.
What you can skip
Junk food and unnecessary snacks
Although some chips and chocolates are okay in moderation (and are great as comfort food!), it’s better to stock up on healthier options.
Too much toilet paper
Oddly enough, it’s one of the first things that flew off the shelves globally at the start of the pandemic. But you don’t really need much; just enough for your needs at home.
Other unnecessary indulgences
Before splurging on extra treats, ask yourself, “Do we really need them now?” For now, it’s best to prioritize the essentials that your family needs.
For a safe and convenient shopping experience, take advantage of SM’s customer care services just for you. (You can read more about them here!) Don’t forget to follow Supermalls on Facebook and to regularly check the SM Supermalls website for updates on mall hours, entry guidelines, and other important announcements. Stay safe, everyone!
