The Amish have a reputation for living simply, but that doesn’t mean they’re unprepared. In fact, their self-sufficient way of life depends on keeping certain essentials close at hand. These items aren’t just about survival, they’re part of their everyday routine, ensuring they can handle whatever life throws their way. Let’s explore the key items the Amish always rely on to stay ready for anything.
Oil Lamps
Since they don’t use electricity, oil lamps are a cornerstone of Amish households. These lamps provide steady light for evenings spent working, reading, or gathering as a family. The Amish always have a supply of lamp oil and spare wicks on hand, ensuring their homes are never without light.
Cast-Iron Cookware
Cooking in Amish homes often happens on wood-burning stoves, making cast-iron cookware a must. These sturdy pots and pans are perfect for everything from frying eggs to baking bread. They’re built to last for decades, and many families pass them down through generations. By keeping them seasoned and in good shape, the Amish ensure they’re always ready to prepare a hearty meal.
Hand Tools
The Amish rely on hand tools to maintain their homes, farms, and furniture. Without power tools, items like saws, hammers, and chisels become indispensable. These tools are often of the highest quality, built to last and perform well. Whether repairing a barn or crafting furniture, the Amish always keep their tools sharp, clean, and ready to go.
Sewing Supplies
A sewing kit is essential in Amish households, as they make and mend their own clothing. Supplies like needles, thread, scissors, and fabric are always kept nearby. Amish women are skilled at creating dresses, trousers, and even quilts, ensuring their families are clothed and comfortable. This practice also saves money and aligns with their values of frugality and self-reliance.
Canning Jars
Preserving food is a way of life for the Amish, and canning jars are critical for this purpose. These jars are used to store everything from fruits and vegetables to jams and meat. By growing and preserving their own food, the Amish ensure they have plenty to eat, even during the harshest winters. A well-stocked pantry of canned goods is a sign of good preparation.
Lanterns
In addition to oil lamps, the Amish use kerosene lanterns for portable lighting. Whether they’re heading to the barn at night or working outdoors early in the morning, lanterns are a dependable source of light. The Amish keep kerosene and spare parts on hand to make sure their lanterns are always functional.
First Aid Kit
The Amish value self-reliance, even when it comes to healthcare. That’s why a well-stocked first aid kit is a must in every household. These kits include essentials like bandages, antiseptics, gauze, and tweezers for treating minor injuries or ailments. In addition to conventional supplies, the Amish often incorporate natural remedies such as herbal salves and tinctures made from plants like comfrey, calendula, and peppermint.
These homemade solutions reflect their deep knowledge of herbal medicine, passed down through generations. By keeping their first aid kits prepared, the Amish can address everyday health concerns quickly without needing outside help.
Washboards and Tubs
Laundry in Amish homes relies on traditional tools like washboards and large tubs. Without washing machines, these items are crucial for keeping clothes and linens clean. The washboard, often made of wood and metal, allows them to scrub out dirt and stains with just soap and water.
Bibles
For the Amish, the Bible isn’t just a religious text, it’s a guide for every aspect of life. Each family keeps at least one Bible close at hand for daily devotions, teaching, and reflection. Many households treasure heirloom Bibles that have been passed down through generations, complete with family records and notes.
The Amish turn to the Bible for answers to moral dilemmas, inspiration, and strength during challenging times. By keeping it central to their lives, they ensure that faith remains the foundation of everything they do.
Firewood
Firewood is essential for Amish homes, especially during the colder months. It’s used to heat their homes and fuel wood-burning stoves for cooking and baking. Families spend much of the year chopping, stacking, and seasoning firewood to ensure they have a steady supply. A well-maintained woodpile is a sign of good preparation and provides peace of mind when winter arrives.
Garden Tools
The Amish take pride in their gardens, which are not only a source of food but also a way to connect with the land.
Gardening is a cornerstone of Amish life, and tools like hoes, rakes, and spades are always kept in good condition. These tools allow them to grow their own vegetables, herbs, and fruits, ensuring they have fresh produce year-round.
Herbs and Natural Remedies
The Amish often dry and store herbs, ensuring they have a natural remedy available at any time. As such, herbs play a vital role in Amish households, both for cooking and for treating minor ailments. Plants like peppermint, chamomile, and echinacea are commonly grown and kept on hand.
Homemade Candles
Homemade candles are another essential item the Amish keep on hand. Used for lighting homes, especially during special occasions or emergencies, these candles are often made from beeswax or tallow. Making candles is a traditional skill passed down through generations, and many families take pride in crafting their own.
By keeping a supply of candles ready, the Amish ensure they’re never without light when it’s needed most.
Water Barrels
By harvesting rainwater, the Amish reduce their reliance on wells or external sources and maintain a sustainable approach to water use. As such, water barrels are used to collect and store rainwater. This water can be used for tasks like watering gardens, cleaning, or even laundry.
These barrels are a simple but effective way to ensure they always have water available for their daily needs.
Homemade Soaps
Homemade soap is a staple in Amish homes, used for everything from bathing to cleaning dishes. Made from natural ingredients like lye, animal fats, and essential oils, these soaps are free from synthetic chemicals. The Amish often produce large batches to last for months, keeping their homes stocked with this versatile item.
Quilts and Blankets
Quilts are not only beautiful but also practical. Handmade with care, these quilts and blankets are essential for staying warm during the winter months. Families often keep several on hand, layering them on beds or using them during cold evenings.
Salt and Sugar
Basic pantry staples like salt and sugar are always in good supply in Amish homes. These ingredients are used not only for cooking but also for preserving food, such as curing meats or making jams.
Wagons and Buggy Supplies
Since the Amish rely on horse-drawn buggies and wagons for transportation, keeping spare parts and supplies is essential. Items like extra wheels, axles, and harnesses are often stored in case of breakdowns. Regular maintenance is also a priority, ensuring their vehicles are always ready to go.
Spare Clothing
Amish families keep spare clothing on hand, particularly durable garments for work and special occasions. They often sew their own clothes, ensuring every family member has enough to last through changing seasons. Extra clothes are also practical for unexpected events, like helping a neighbor or hosting guests.
Grain and Animal Feed
For farming families, a stockpile of grain and animal feed is critical. These supplies ensure their livestock is well-fed, even during harsh winters or periods of scarcity. The Amish store these items in carefully maintained silos or bins, protecting them from pests and moisture.
Keeping a surplus of feed is another way they demonstrate their commitment to preparedness and self-reliance.