I am a marketer's nightmare. I generally operate under the assumption that generic is perfectly fine, thankyouverymuch, and if generic isn't available, I just reach for whichever brand name is cheapest that day.
BUT, as I am getting older and turning the act of grocery shopping into a fine art, I am learning that there a few brands that are worth the extra pennies. Here's my list, and I'd love to hear yours.
Charmin Ultra toilet paper. Because y'all, my family's bottoms deserve the best. I have even been known to pack Charmin on trips if we're staying at the sort of place that seems likely to have sandpaper-ish stuff in the bathroom.
Oxi-Clean Laundry Stain Remover. We take stains to a WHOLE NEW LEVEL in this household, and I continue to be amazed at the messes this stuff can clean up.
Bounty Paper Towels. I must have an issue with paper products. But I cannot stand crinkly, stiff paper towels that don't work.
Tide laundry detergent. I'm a latecomer in joining the Tide groupies. For years, I have held out and bought the cheapest detergent I could find. And it all worked perfectly fine for me. But then, on a whim, I took out a second mortgage and bought some Tide...and OH MY WORD. It was the SMELL that did me in. For the first couple of weeks I nearly hyperventilated every time I did laundry, I was doing so much sniffing. It's heavenly. So I've kept buying it in hopes that Hubs will not figure out how much we're spending on detergent.
Would you believe that's it? Nearly everything else I buy generic, or cheapest available. But there are a few non-grocery brands that I will drive out of the way for:
Honda. We bought our first Honda about a year and a half ago, and it's been the most solid car we've ever owned. No wonder people love them so much. So when it was time to replace my van this spring, we bought another Honda. I'll never go back.
Sonic. I don't know what they put in their Diet Cokes to make them taste so much better than everyone else's, but I keep going back. I think it's the styrofoam cups that keep the ice fresh ALL day. My six-year-old son has told me that his dream is to work at Sonic when he grows up, because, he says, "I"ll give you Route 44 Diet Cokes whenever you want." Sweet boy.
Burger King. Best fast food burgers. Period.
Sherwin Williams paint. In the last five years, we have painted nearly every surface in our entire house, including cabinets and trim. We've tried nearly every brand of paint (we started with the cheap stuff), and let me TELL you it makes a different. I only use Sherwin Williams now, and it goes on much more smoothly and thickly than anything else.
Also, their Color Visualizer on their website is so helpful.
Okay, girls--share your list of must-use brands below. Works-For-Me Wednesday guidelines can be found here.
And y'all? I am SO not trying to be a meanie about this, but I'm going to delete any WFMW links that go directly to the front page of a blog instead of to the WFMW post. People browse through WFMW all week long, so if your link doesn't go straight to your post, it can be frustrating for readers to find it. Please, FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS on how to link directly to your WFMW post.
Thanks, as always, for playing along. You make this so much fun.
1. OW (Aquaphor) 2. Jill (free coupons) 3. Diatribal (many many things...) 4. Smockity Frocks (Frosted Flakes) 5. Capturing Today 6. Lana G! 7. Laura (Command Hooks) 8. WorksForMom (Favorite Clothing) 9. Sincerely Anna 10. ellen b ~ the best 11. Stretch Mark Mama (Baby Bjorn Bibs) 12. Michelle at Scribbit (sack lunch ideas) 13. Pmom @ Chocolate and Garlic (Cook\'s Illustrated) 14. An Ordinary Mom (Burt\'s Beeswax) 15. Mandy Houk (Lysol!) 16. Christa @ No End in Site (3 for moms) 17. Karen (Detergent) 18. SingForHim @ RealLife (I save 50% on groceries) 19. Jodi (It\'s the Cheesiest) 20. mommy of three (brand loyalty) 21. Jane Recycled Fabric 22. NerdMom (Brand Loyalty) 23. Western Warmth (Magic Erasers!!!) 24. Mommy-fied (airtight containers) 25. Nikki (spot remover, t.p. paper towels) 26. Stacey@Look, Mom, Look! (Music for Moods) 27. Mommy Zabs (making playdoh) 28. Chrystal 29. Heather (puzzles and then some) 30. DeputyHeadmistress(how to find things in your purse) 31. faithful chick (Carmex and Sharpies, oh my!) 32. Lynnae (Land\'s End Backpacks) 33. Ewokgirl (Red Juice and cat food) 34. My Twenty Cents Keeps Moving (coke, palmolive etc) 35. chilihead (jeans, makeup, more) 36. Chrystal (MILK) 37. Kelli (Living in Grace) - Cleaning Winners! 38. Sheila (juice with less sugar) 39. Bev (Chips, TP, Cars) 40. Emily (BabyGap socks) 41. Susanne (varied items) 42. Lori - Queen of Dirty Laundry (Velveeta, Dr. Pepper, etc.) 43. Laura @ Laura Williams\' Musings (varies) 44. Shauna (various) 45. Dawn (A Few Things) 46. The Pumkin Patch 47. Michelle (kitchen tips) 48. Abel (Some simple birthday ideas on wife\'s birthday) 49. Elizabeth (paper towels) 50. Alison 51. At A Hen\'s Pace (subbing ground turkey--secrets & recipe) 52. Owlhaven (my splurges) 53. Mamalady(Costco) 54. Suzanne (fav brands) 55. Jennifer (Top10 favorites) 56. Sasha- Brand Loyalty 57. Proverbs31 (Borden,Pace,etc) 58. Joo (grocery faves) 59. Robin (Tiny Love toys) 60. Duckabush Blog (Homeschool Faves) 61. Karla (teeth whitening) 62. Corrie (family faves) 63. mummifiedx5 (my favs) 64. Christine~AreWeThereYetMom(family favorites and a quick craft idea) 65. 3foldcord (no more tears) 66. Organising Queen (favourite Bible) 67. cardiogirl (stain removal) |
68. Kathy (salad dressing & brownies) 69. Nap Warden (Shoes, the shoes!) 70. Stephanie (label once, lotion) 71. phyllis (morningstar farms) 72. Beth/Mom2TwoVikings (mac & cheese) 73. Laane 74. Musings of a Housewife 75. Georgia Mom (Publix, Lands End, Boar\'s Head) 76. Katrina (Stainless Steel Cleaner) 77. Musings of a Housewife (cleaning stuff, diapers, coffee, and more!) 78. Shirley (two dead mice) 79. Jenny from Mommin\' It Up (Carter\'s clothing) 80. peach (Dr.Pepper, etal) 81. carrie@with all that I\'ve been given (compiled list) 82. Jes (Trash bags and TP) 83. Kathy (cleaning products) 84. Short Stop (Starbucks Favorites) 85. Elena managers of their homes 86. mopsy (Mexican Coke) 87. Rhen (redemmption box) 88. Merci (Cascade Action Packs) 89. Aubrey (cereal) 90. Jen (brand loyal) 91. The Natural Mommy (Best. Bib. Ever.) 92. Heather L. (car organizer) 93. Charity (my fav brands) 94. Kel (kids teeth brushing product) 95. The Building Brows (Toilet Wand, Simple Solution, more fab cleaning brands) 96. Katrina (1st WFMW post, T.P.) 97. Lori ~ Simple Life at Home (various) 98. Tonsofsons ~ cean car 99. Tracy(various) 100. Multitasking Mama (towels, detergent, toiletries etc) 101. April (food and kids) 102. jen (Tide, cleaner, pb&j) 103. oh amanda (more than you wanna know) 104. Redheaded Ranting (breastfeeding hurts!) 105. Juggling Frogs (curling ribbon) 106. Melissa(food products) 107. Stacey, Kisses From the Father 108. Not Quite Crunchy Parent ( Bring Back the Booster) 109. Lorraine (my list) 110. Leeann (TIVO, scent free products, meat loaf mix) 111. Carrie (flip flops, strollers, and girl\'s clothes) 112. Milehimama (A roundup of favorites) 113. Summer\'s Nook (Brand Loyalty) 114. Amy (Magic Bullet) 115. Jendeis (Open Pit BBQ sauce) 116. Melinda (brand loyalty) 117. Kara (Oreo\'s) 118. Amy (Lotions) 119. Jennifer (just a few holdouts) 120. Tracy (black beans and more) 121. Demeter (FotL & Scott Extra) 122. Kris @ Wonder Mom 123. KimC (brand loyalty) 124. Candace (Eat More Veggies) 125. Ann (phone center and basket loyalty) 126. Lady Why (baby products and more) 127. Naturemama (drink up) 128. Kellyn (Socks) 129. Karen (my favorites) 130. MommaofMany (a supertaster\'s sandwich bag) 131. Liza (best lip balm) 132. Meredith (strollers, knits, backpacks) 133. MrsPear (Aveeno, All Free and Clear) 134. (((((HUGS))))) sandi~worcestershire&vitamins I sell |
135. Callista (my brands) 136. Janel 137. Simply A Musing Blog 138. GP in Montana 139. Holly (laundry detergent) 140. Desiree Rutter 141. TX Poppet (salsa & consumer politics) 142. Clappy Shoes Magic Eraser 143. Southern Girl (Lean Cuisine) 144. Good Thoughts 145. Texastanya (favorite things) 146. SAHMmy Says(best baby products) 147. singinole 148. Deb (brands I use) 149. Jennifer @ The Mom Chronicles 150. Janell/Special Needs Homeschool 151. Linda(tuna& cokes) 152. warillever 153. Jennifer (several things) 154. The Estrogen Files - Lowes vs Home Depot 155. Mandy (teeth whitening, makeup, wall scrubber) 156. KimC (brand loyalty) 157. Barbara (Tetley Tea, and more) 158. jen@Conversations 159. Laura 160. Scissorbill (CRISCO!) 161. Adena (making biscuits and brands) 162. Cindee (brand loyalty) 163. ~Amy (soy milk & pet food) 164. Amy 165. Gift of Green (Ziploc and 365 Milk) 166. margalit (filofax, hellmans, method cleaners) 167. Kathy Days (brands with easy-read allergen labels) 168. MoobeeMa (Supermom Vitamins) 169. Kelli @ Gohn Crazy (Brands I LOVE) 170. Doris (favorite fabric softener) 171. Ann\'Re (my list) 172. Mo (my must have brands) 173. A Reforming Mom (my real list) 174. Kara (diapers to chocolate) 175. Lindsey (great online finds) 176. Momma 2 Beans (My Top 10) 177. The BRC 178. Andrea (personal and cleaning) 179. Annabelle (Christian Momma) 180. Amy (bad experience w/ cheap detergent) 181. Jamie (skivies) 182. Stacey (fave brands) 183. Jenn 184. Melody (First WFMW) 185. Song of the Sagebrush (Saving on the Power Bill) 186. MemeGRL (lots of favorites) 187. Frugal Homemaker Plus (Brand Loyal does not have to be expensive! Plus my favorite brands) 188. morethanafish (household faves) 189. Tara (Easy Off Bam - The Yellow One) 190. Nancy - Fav Foods and Stuff! 191. Stephanie - Green Cleaning Products 192. Dini (deoderant/cereal) 193. Jill (these are a few of my favorite things!) 194. Ang (I love this thing!) 195. Aimee 196. Nikki @ Recovering the Design (top 5) 197. jen 198. Amy (the second time I actually liked to the blog!!) 199. Lizzie (dish scrubbers/scrapbooks) 200. Penny (Mama26blessings) |
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The links to this WFMW are closed. Join us next week!
I couldn't agree more with Bounty and Tide except we have to use Tide Free due to my son's allergies so no sniff fest happening over here. I also LOVE Cascade for my dishwasher. I will NOT use anything else!
Great edition!
Laura
Posted by: Laura | Tuesday, September 04, 2007 at 10:56 PM
Wow, Shannon. You went all out on your list of products. Thank you! I can't wait to read what everyone else says, too.
Posted by: Smockity Frocks | Tuesday, September 04, 2007 at 10:58 PM
this is going to be interesting. We've always been Toyota and Honda fans. I'm just becoming a Tide fan since Amway is no longer selling their SA8 plus detergent that was the best stuff out there...
Thanks for your hosting...
Posted by: ellen b | Tuesday, September 04, 2007 at 10:59 PM
Shannon, I'm totally with you on the Good Paper Products. (I choose Bounty also!) Be wary of Charmin Ultra, however. That is what we used to buy because it is so soft. One day, we found a nasty clog in our plumbing. It was very difficult to remove (initially, they thought that tree roots had invaded). Finally, the plumber asked what type of TP we were using. When I told him Charmin Ultra, he chuckled and said, "Well, that's the problem!" I have since had 2 other plumbers tell me never to use that stuff because it clogs pipes. We have switched to cottonelle (my husband actually likes it better) and we have had no "plumbing" problems...pardon the pun!
This was a great idea! I am having a blast reading about what other folks have to buy!
Posted by: diatribal | Tuesday, September 04, 2007 at 11:00 PM
My love for our Hondas borders on idol-worship. And I'm proud--of--it!
Posted by: Lisa | Tuesday, September 04, 2007 at 11:00 PM
Nice to hear some good recommendations-- thanks!
Posted by: Michelle at Scribbit | Tuesday, September 04, 2007 at 11:00 PM
Add liquid Biz to your Oxi Clean and you will have an amazing stain remover on your hands! I posted about this little trick earlier in the year as a WFMW!
Posted by: An Ordinary Mom | Tuesday, September 04, 2007 at 11:00 PM
Wow! Look at all the brands YOU came up with! I struggled for my one (although I should have come up with our Honda as well - I REALLY couldn't live without it!!!)
We love Oxi-Clean too and our favorite Bounty is the Select-A-Size!
Thanks for hosting a great week again!
Posted by: Karen@FamilyBriefs | Tuesday, September 04, 2007 at 11:06 PM
Amen to your brands! I, too, adore Tide, Oxi-Clean, and my beloved Honda Odyssey. I've also had an Accord that made it to 172,000 miles each before I was able to sell it used for $3,000. Talk about solid cars.
I once tried the Costco brand of toilet paper. It smelled like vomit. Seriously. I'll never buy anything but Charmin again.
I'm personally a fan of Chick-fil-A's Diet Dr Peppers, which also come in those wonderful styrofoam cups, but I'll admit that a Sonic stop can make me happy on a hot summer day.
Posted by: Chelsea | Tuesday, September 04, 2007 at 11:07 PM
I am so with you on most of these, lol:-) However, I recently switched from Tide after *cough*32 years, my whole life*cough* of Tide Loyalty. I had a coupon for $5 off Arm & Hammer Detergent, and it was only $8.97 for a box that is for 120 loads, so for $3.97 I had to try it...and I love it! I never thought I would like anything else, but this is great. Everything is just as clean, if not more, and smells great too! Not to mention the price savings!!!
Posted by: Karen (mommy of three) | Tuesday, September 04, 2007 at 11:10 PM
My love for the scent of Tide is crazy. It's my favorite mens cologne! For women, I tend to wear Fabreeze! LOL, seriously though it's true!
As for other brands, it has to be Helmans (or here in CA -Best Foods) mayo or I'm not havin' it.
I have had a Honda and it was one of my most beloved cars, but now I am equally in love with my Toyota Scion. My dh has a Toyota that is 14 years old and still holding it's own on LA's mean streets.
That's about it- coupons and sales tend to rule the purse here.
Posted by: Jane | Tuesday, September 04, 2007 at 11:15 PM
Thanks for sharing those!
Posted by: Western Warmth | Tuesday, September 04, 2007 at 11:15 PM
With you on the Tide, sista! It hurts my tummy to think of paying more, but the smell of some Tide Clean Breeze makes it all better! Top that off with a Downy Clean Breeze dryer sheet...nirvana!
Posted by: faithful chick | Tuesday, September 04, 2007 at 11:33 PM
Thanks for this post. I look forward to seeing what people choose to stick with! Forgive me for posting twice. I meant to include that brief definition and forgot the first time. Please delete the first one if you get a chance. Thanks again for hosting!
Posted by: Chrystal | Tuesday, September 04, 2007 at 11:38 PM
Thanks for sharing! I'm still resisting the Tide....though it's getting harder after reading the comments!
Posted by: Lynnae (From Under the Clutter) | Tuesday, September 04, 2007 at 11:38 PM
This is my first time doing the WFMW, hope I did it right!
Posted by: Bev | Tuesday, September 04, 2007 at 11:46 PM
I love Tide, too, although I use the unscented variety.
I'm so happy I actually have a good WFM idea to share this time! :) I've been skipping it for awhile because I couldn't think of anything.
Posted by: Emily | Tuesday, September 04, 2007 at 11:51 PM
I'm not a true brand loyal person.. I just use what works best and what I can by inexpensively with coupons, sales, etc.
Posted by: Laura @ Laura Williams' Musings | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 12:00 AM
Totally agree about the heavenly scent of Tide. I can't justify the cost unless it's really on sale, though!
Posted by: Shauna | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 12:05 AM
I think it is the ice in the route 44's that keep me coming back. And for the record, choc. coke is my all time favorite. although right now I am off of colas until I lose some more weight. I refuse to go on that cruise next May in a size 16 again.
Posted by: Jeannette | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 12:06 AM
LOL, I'm the total opposite of you on TP, Shannon. I buy Scott because it's not all cushy. I know most people can't stand it but I can't stand the cushy stuff.
Posted by: Michelle | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 12:16 AM
It's funny to see how many of my favorite items are also other people's... that must mean they are really good!
Thanks for the fun!
Posted by: Jennifer | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 12:30 AM
I don't like Charmin at all..it's too soft for me,I need some roughage. ;) I buy the Costco toilet paper or white cloud from Wal-Mart.
I love Sonic's little ices! I want to buy a freezer just so I can buy bags of pebble ice. :)
Posted by: Stacey | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 12:32 AM
I LOVE Burger King
Posted by: jen | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 12:39 AM
I love Tide. I totally agree about the smell.
Sonic--Lime slush...yum
BK-Definitely the best if there isn't a Whataburger around. However...BK has better fries than the latter.
Posted by: Sasha | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 12:51 AM
Bounty? agree to disagree. I'm a Viva gal myself. :) Thanks for a fun WFMW!
Posted by: Joo | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 12:51 AM
Wow! I had a harder time coming up with my list than I realized. :) We are fellow store brand buyers you and I. Together we'll put the big companies out of business. :)
I agree with about Sonic's drinks. I love their soft drinks. Their Really,Big,Cold,Soft-Drinks. Mmmmm.
Posted by: Proverbs31 | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 12:52 AM
Yeah - I only came up with one! Mainly because of an Anglo-American problem, i.e not knowing which brands you guys have which we have in the U.K...ok, cars,coke!
(Betcha don't have HP sauce though!)
My husband would agree with the Burger King brand. His pal calls him 'Burger King'!
Posted by: Naomi | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 03:28 AM
Like Lynnae I am a first-time WFMW contributor, but sort of long-time reader.
I haven't noticed Tide giving off great smells, but it does work quite well on stain removal. I find waiting for a coupon from Costco makes it more affordable than purchasing it from the grocery store.
Posted by: cardiogirl | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 04:35 AM
what a great wfmw. thanks for sharing, shannon - i can't wait to read all the rest. i seriously thought i was up early, tho!
Posted by: phyllis | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 05:22 AM
My mother is a loyal Tide user, so I love the smell for that reason. I just can't justify the $20/month it would cost me to use it. Homemade or cheapest off the shelf works for me.
Cheap flour, though, is not acceptable. King Arthur is the ONLY option for white flour.
Posted by: warillever | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 05:23 AM
I accidently linked to the front page of my blog. Is there any way to go back and change the link to http://warillever.blogspot.com/2007/09/wfmw-brand-loyalty.html
Posted by: warillever | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 05:25 AM
I'm surprised that no one has given a shout out for Hanes Her Way undies!! But then again, there are soooo many comments that I'm sure I've missed a few! Hanes men's t's, boys' boxer briefs, socks and just everything Hanes is great- remember the Beefy T's in college?? Yea, Hanes!
And, hey, what about Chucks?? Our 12 year old's first pair of pink high tops was a size 0 or 1:-) The brown, black and blue ones all make great uniform shoes for middle school. Chuck Taylors by Converse rock!
For those of you in Tulsa, are Quick Trips not the best place ever? Gas and a Slurpee- YUM!
Aveda hair products. Anyone? Anyone? Talk about great smell!!
Last but not least... CRAYOLA!! Woo-hoo!! There is no reason to EVER buy any other kind of crayon or marker for school use. Period. So don't do it.
Posted by: Elizabeth | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 05:57 AM
Waaaaa!!!! I want to smell Tide! I am in Australia and we don't have it here. I love the smell of Radiant which is the brand I use and will not scrimp on that.
Perhaps I should have emailed George and asked him to bring me some with his entourage now that he has popped in for APEC.....
Posted by: Kelley | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 06:25 AM
Fun theme, Shannon--I'm excited to read all the lists! Thanks for hosting.
Posted by: carrie | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 06:28 AM
I am a HUGE Cottonell fan. I like the ripples. :o)
Thanks for hosting!
Posted by: Heather L. | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 07:08 AM
There are a few brands I am loyal to - but have to say that shopping at Costco changed quite a few of my thoughts! Kirkland (the Costco brand) makes exceptional products!
Posted by: Tsoniki | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 07:49 AM
seriously - I can't believe how quickly the numbers are going today! Whew!
Shannon, I was crackin' up at your post. Though I didn't list the Honda or the SW, I totally agree . . .and I am one of those Tide groupies for the same reason you are!
Posted by: jen | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 08:00 AM
Aaaaahhhhh, I'm # 111 and #112. I copied the url to link directly to the post and then just typed the front page url. Sorry! Can you delete the #111?
Posted by: Carrie @ Three-Girl Circus | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 08:22 AM
If you think Burger King has the best fast food burgers than you have obviously never eaten at In N Out!!! That is a MUST stop whenever in Las Vegas and California. THE best, hands down.
Posted by: crystal | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 08:45 AM
Girl, if you like soft paper towels, you have got try VIVA. They are the best! Super-soft (made by Kleenex), super-absorbent, and reusable ( get it wet, wring it out, wipe somethin' up, repeat...i'm not kidding!) You can find them on sale for about $6 for an 8 pack and there are usually coupons for .50 . It sounds pricey, but if you use papertowels, they are so worth it. :)
(somehow i accidentally posted this on last week's WFMW comments, oops!)
Posted by: singinole | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 08:48 AM
Tide is it for me. Bounty is an almost-must-have. I HAVE to have it to make the baby wipes (preferably in select-a-size version), but I do not have to have it otherwise. Maybe because I use bar towels instead of paper towels for most things. That should be another WFMW topic, I guess.
Posted by: Tracy | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 08:57 AM
Okay ... all fixed. My brand loyalty post is up now.
Geez, you'd think I'd be more with it. It's not like it's Monday or anything!
Have a great week!
Posted by: An Iowa Mom | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 09:04 AM
I'm a newbie. :) Great topic!
Posted by: Kris | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 09:10 AM
Hey Shannon.....Did you know that you can buy a bag of ice from Sonic? Around here, (I live in IL) you can get a big bag of their ice for $1.29 plus tax. I go thru the drive thru and order my yummy cherry limeade and a bag of ice. It's the best!!
Posted by: Carolyn | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 09:12 AM
Tide? lalalalala not listening...
It's not nice to tempt people to try something that costs 4 times as much. What if we love it?
Posted by: KimC | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 09:21 AM
Ha ha, I think we're polar opposites on what you listed. I like cottonelle, don't use stain remover, love Viva paper towells, All or natural for the laundry, Chevy's, Taco bell has the best fountain soda and fast food burgers have to come from Hardee's. It's amazing how different everyone's taste can be. : )
Posted by: Naturemama | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 09:29 AM
You sound exactly like me. I have to have Charmin Ultra toilet paper, Swiss Miss cocoa, etc... But, I will buy most things generic. I have taught my husband how to do that.
Posted by: Heather | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 09:46 AM
Great idea for a WFMW theme!
Posted by: Meredith from Merchant Ships | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 09:57 AM
For some reason, I can't eat tuna fish salad on anything but RITZ crackers...
I love soft drinks from QT (QuikTrip)! They have the same crushed ice like Sonic. I think they may put crack cocaine in them...
And Huggies diapers....no leaks, and yes, I've tried ALL brands! LOL
Posted by: Nicole | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 10:19 AM
I too am a Bounty addict - I prefer the "select-a-size"...and like you, I am a generic kind of girl on most everything...but there are a few brands I'm loyal to, until they decide to discontinue it...which usually sends me over the edge. :)
Posted by: Karen @ Simply A Musing Blog | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 10:19 AM
Always hated Tide until the new scented line. Now I fuss at Spouse if he brings home anything other than Rose & Violet. Very centering for me.
Oh, and as usual I digressed on my site with a tirade on brands who are disloyal to their consumers. Take that Hoover!
Posted by: TX Poppet | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 10:34 AM
Enjoy your site, I agree with you about the laudry detergent. We've recently begun using the concentrated version (bigger is not always better). Works good if you don't forget it's concentrated!
Posted by: Lovely Rita | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 10:38 AM
Finally shelled out for Tide after I saw somewhere that you could use half the amount called for on the bottle, effectively making Tide a great buy! Works great, smells great!
Posted by: SAHMmy Says | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 10:45 AM
I love Abel's comments and think I will send that to my hubby today since it is my birthday. Sorry I accidentally added two links to my site. The first one I forgot to put the title of my favorite product. Please delete that one. I love Rocks in My Dryer and have found it is the only one I read consistently. Can you delete #140 please.
Posted by: Desiree Rutter | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 10:49 AM
We use Northern toilet paper - I forgot to put that one on my list, oops. And thanks for the tip about Sherwin Williams paint - I'll have to remember that one! :)
Posted by: Deb - Mom of 3 Girls | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 10:53 AM
Hey I love this Works For Me theme. I'm getting some good information from other bloggers. Thanks!
Posted by: Janelle | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 10:55 AM
Oh, I'm going to have to add Jif peanut butter, Kraft macaroni and cheese, and Hershey's chocolate syrup to the list.
So, I'm curious, which Tide scent do you buy??
Posted by: bee | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 11:30 AM
Time to go shopping!!!!!
Posted by: MooBeeMa in Oregon | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 11:38 AM
I totally agree about the extra money for Bounty papertowels. We don't buy Charmin, but we fork it out for Cottonelle. Also, being a southern girl, I'm sure you are familiar with Velveeta. The generic of that just ain't right.
Posted by: jen at Conversations | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 11:39 AM
Another Tide user! Wonderful and I totally agree with the Charmin. Wonderful! But Burger King? Yuck! lol
☺
Posted by: Kathleen Marie | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 11:40 AM
I love this! What a great idea to share things w/ other posters! Thanks!
Posted by: Laura | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 11:41 AM
We don't have Sonics around here in the Wash DC area, but it's a must-have when we go travel to Arkansas. I can taste that ice now...ahh refreshing!
Posted by: Sincerely Anna | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 11:49 AM
DITTO on the Charmin and Bounty.
Posted by: Amy | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 12:06 PM
On Sonic - It's the ice. My Sonic sells ice by the bag and it makes all the difference. A special occasion? Buy Sonic ice!
Posted by: Dona England | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 12:16 PM
That is funny! I am really,really not brand loyal, but I did realize in reading your post, I am when it comes to cars and computers! I love VW's and Mac's. I cannot justify the expense for most things just for my enjoyment...but I do think cars and computers are worth it!
Posted by: Martha Artyomenko | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 12:17 PM
I'm a Tide with Fabreeze user!! I love that stuff!! My towels no longer smell funny!! LOL Oh...Sonic! I was craving Sonic all through my 2nd pregnancy...didn't help that it was within walking distance from where we lived! Now it's 45 minutes away *sigh* I absolutely love their 44 oz Iced Tea...well, that among so much other foods!
Ok, now I gotta go check out everyone else's posts...I have yet to join in on WFMW...I'm sure I will someday!!
Posted by: annabelle | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 12:57 PM
You're not being a meanie at all. The link should go directly to one's WFMW post. :)
Thanks for sponsoring this fun theme!
Posted by: Doris | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 01:04 PM
Yes! Tide is the BEST...and Burger King, too!
Posted by: Maine Mom | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 01:15 PM
It seems Honda, Hellmann's and Tide appear on a lot of lists. :D Thanks for the great theme!
Posted by: Ann'Re | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 01:21 PM
Oh yeah...Tide...and Fabreeze (the knock-off's just aren't as good!) I forgot both of those! Maybe I'm more of a "brand" gal than I thought! LoL
Just wanted to say I luv, luv, LUV your WFMW; this is my first participation, but I've lurked and found tons of great tips!
Posted by: Mo | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 01:26 PM
What a great idea! Loved your list.
Posted by: Kara | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 01:53 PM
I used to use Tide, but now my absolute favorite is Mrs. Meyers geranium laundry det. I don't buy it very often because it's really expensive, but I do love it when I get it. I also like the Method brand at Target, and when I can get it, I really like BioKleen. I prefer to use natural things with fewer dyes and chemicals.
I also WAY prefer Viva. But I do love the Charmin Ultra. No matter how poor we've been, my hubby says it's worth it. :)
I'm not brand loyal about very many things, but I did love the Bath and Body Works Kitchen Herb antibacterial soap. Loved it! And they discontinued it. Wah.
Posted by: Lucy | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 02:10 PM
I really liked the themed WFMW. And I love sonic drinks. They are the best.
Posted by: MacKenzie | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 02:32 PM
Posted by: MacKenzie | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 02:32 PM
My post details the frustration of super-cheap detergent. I'm sticking with Tide!
Posted by: Amy | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 03:12 PM
I love the Sonic comment! I love Sonic and I think their ice is the best! my children knew where every Sonic was long before they knew how to get anywhere else!
Posted by: Jenn | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 03:34 PM
This is my first time playing along with you. How fun! I am a Tide girl myself, and I just had a cherry limeade from Sonic this afternoon! Yummmmmmmy!
Posted by: Tara | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 05:56 PM
I'm in! Mine is mainly favorite food brands. I have found a few that fit nicely into my low calorie life style and I am happy to report I am never hungry and have dropped almost 20 pounds! So yay for the fav foods!
Posted by: Nancy | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 06:06 PM
I agree about Sonic but you are missing out until you have had their Cherry Limeade. Liquid Heaven!
Posted by: oh amanda | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 06:59 PM
that's funny a lot of your things are products for cleaning etc. my list is all food related...yoplait yogurt, pepperidge farm whole wheat bread, general mills cheerios...i can taste the difference...my husband doesn't believe me, but we've done taste tests and i always know!
i have to disagree about the Sherwin Williams paint though. I will never buy it EVER again! We painted every room in our house with it except one...we used Lowe's Valspar paint and it was 100 times better than SW...we still need to do another coat and touch ups with all the other rooms where we didn't use the Lowe's brand.
Posted by: lisa h. | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 07:29 PM
You can buy BAGS of ice at Sonic. Seriously. Crunch on...
Posted by: Elizabeth | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 08:34 PM
How much fun is this! When thinking of this, I realized that for the few items I am brand specific, I also am item specific within the brand. Dial Soap must be white. Swiss Miss Cocoa must be Dark Chocolate (like drinking a candy bar). And, Hunt's Manwich must be Original Sauce. Also, I agree with the Viva Paper Towels. And my new goal in life is now to get to a Sonic. From searching their website I only have to go 141.61 miles for a coke!
Posted by: Amy | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 09:49 PM
Great blog topic!
I'm new your blog as well as other frugal and housewife types of blogs! We've just bought our first house after a year of marriage and money is just flying out the window! Time to rethink everything! Thanks for the fun ideas everyone :0
Posted by: Amy | Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 10:12 PM
This was a fun one, I really enjoyed reading everyone's "must haves".
Posted by: Michele | Thursday, September 06, 2007 at 12:59 AM
How can someone with such good taste with the rest of her list mention Burger King burgers? I cannot abide them. Try ordering a number 1 with your diet coke next time you are at Sonic! All the rest, though, they rock.
Posted by: Nancy | Thursday, September 06, 2007 at 09:03 AM
A lady after my own heart..
Charmin only for this households bootys, maybe I have a sercret crush on the bear..
Bounty only, I'm a papertowelaholic- I buy them in bulk, I use papertowels for EVERYTHING..
Oxiclean- Can't do sparkling white school uniform shirts without it- The big bucket.
Tide- Yes.. Always.. we dig the fragrance
Honda- I very much miss my silver Accord LX-Best car I ever had, looking into a Honda Pilot [unless of course someone is willing to spring for the Lexus SUV I've been eyein']
Sonic- We don't have one near to me, but the commercials have me laughin' my ass off..
Burger King- My family can't live without it..
Sherwin Williams? I work for their corporate headquarters so there's no question what I'm using in my house!
Toothpaste- Crest Whitening Expressions [refreshing vanilla mint flavor]
Dishwashing liquid- Dawn [works great on grease] in Apple Blossom scent
Dishwashing- Electrasol Gel packs
Disinfectant Wipes- Clorox
Instant Carpet Cleaner- Spot Shot, Excellent for any type of spot on your carpets
Lactaid milk- Necessary for a fresh smelling household
Orange Juice- The big white jug, I like the pulp, the fam, does not.
Ok.. done for now:) I could go on forever..
Posted by: MsRebecca | Thursday, September 06, 2007 at 07:04 PM
Ok.
Did the comment ahead of me just say-
"Lactaid milk- Necessary for a fresh smelling household".
Am I missing something? bwahahahahahaha ha ha
Anyway.
I was simply going to say "Buy Sonic Ice In Bags!" It's the best $1.39/tx you'll spend. Oh yes, ma'am. And it works with most ice makers. Woohoo!
Carry on.
Posted by: kelli | Friday, September 07, 2007 at 12:14 AM
Oh- and hat trick to Grafter Branch for the Sonic Ice info ...
Posted by: kelli | Friday, September 07, 2007 at 12:15 AM
YEAH for OxiClean!! LOVE LOVE LOVE that stuff, as far as I'm concerned it is a mom's BEST FRIEND. How can you not love a product that removes poop stains?? And I'm with ya on the high end TP....
Posted by: kate | Friday, September 07, 2007 at 01:01 AM
I have recently come across this blog and love this idea. Thanks for making it available for all of us to share!
Posted by: Heather | Sunday, September 09, 2007 at 06:10 PM