The Economic Power of Shopping Local

Why Inland Empire Households Save More with DIY & Holistic Home Goods

New Market Starting 10/4 in Wildomar - Wild-O-Market / Learn more @ www.wildomarketspace.org

In today’s economy, every dollar counts—and where we spend those dollars makes a difference not only to our wallets, but to the health of our families and communities. Across the Inland Empire, there’s a growing movement toward shopping local, reducing household toxins, and making simple DIY swaps for everyday products. The benefits are twofold: families cut costs while supporting local artisans, refill stations, and small businesses that keep our regional economy thriving.

Why Shopping Local Matters in the Inland Empire

When you buy from a local store in Riverside, Redlands, or Temecula instead of a big-box retailer, you’re doing more than just checking off your shopping list. Studies show that 68 cents of every dollar spent locally stays in the community, compared to less than 43 cents when shopping with national chains. That local reinvestment means stronger small businesses, more jobs, and more resilience in our regional economy.

With inflation still a hot topic in California households, shopping smart and local has become one of the Inland Empire’s most powerful tools for financial sustainability.

Wild-O-Market is currently accepting applications for vendors for the Fall Season scheduled to start October 4th.

Cost Comparison: Big Brands vs. DIY vs. Organic Local Remedies

Let’s take a closer look at something as simple as all-purpose household cleaner:

Option	Cost Per 16 oz Bottle	Ingredients & Safety	Environmental Impact
Big Brand (Amazon or Retail Chain)	$6–$9	Often contains synthetic fragrances, ammonia, sulfates	Plastic packaging, harsh chemicals in waterways
DIY Vinegar + Citrus Cleaner (Made at Home)	$0.75–$1.25	White vinegar + citrus peels or essential oil	Zero-waste (reusable bottle, compostable citrus), non-toxic
Organic Local Remedy (Refill Station / Local Maker)	$4–$6	Plant-based, essential oils, non-toxic	Refill-friendly, biodegradable

That means a household using DIY or local refill options can save $60–$100 per year on just this one product alone—while cutting down dramatically on plastic waste and chemical exposure.

And it doesn’t stop with cleaners. Everyday products like laundry detergent, dish soap, and personal care items can be made at home or purchased from local refill stations across the Inland Empire for 20–40% less than big-brand alternatives when you factor in refill discounts and reduced packaging costs.

The Hidden Health Benefits

Aside from cost savings, choosing DIY or locally crafted remedies protects families from harmful toxins. Many conventional cleaners are linked to respiratory irritation, skin sensitivity, and long-term exposure concerns. By switching to vinegar, baking soda, castile soap, and locally sourced essential oils, families gain peace of mind knowing they’re reducing harmful chemical load inside their homes.

A Win-Win for Inland Empire Families

Supporting Inland Empire refill shops, herbalists, and holistic makers is more than just a trend—it’s a sustainable economic choice that strengthens our local economy while keeping families healthier. By rethinking household purchases and opting for DIY solutions or community-based brands, households can save money, cut waste, and create a safer living environment.

✅ Takeaway: The Inland Empire thrives when we invest in our communities. Next time you reach for a cleaner or household product, consider the savings, safety, and impact of choosing local. Your wallet, your health, and your community will thank you.