In a world dominated by imports and fast consumerism, one Reddit user set out to answer a simple question: Can I live my daily life using mostly Canadian-made products?
The results were not only surprising, they sparked a groundswell of enthusiasm among others trying to do the same.
“I’ll be honest, I didn’t expect much when I started this ‘buy Canadian’ experiment,” wrote Redditor u/Conscious-Ad-1409 in a post titled How I built a mini ‘Made-in-Canada’ home setup using only Canadian brands that quickly gained traction. “At first, I figured it would be impossible to replace most of the everyday stuff I use.”
But after starting small — swapping a few everyday items like notebooks and coffee — the experiment snowballed. Today, they estimate that 70% of the products they use day-to-day are now made in Canada.
“It’s not perfect — and some things cost more — but I’ve been surprised at how far I’ve come.”
A home transformed, one item at a time
Here’s a sample of u/Conscious-Ad-1409’s new Canadian lineup:
- Desk chair from Boutique Made in Canada (Quebec): Sturdy and no-frills.
- Notebooks from Canadian National Notebook (Ontario): “I actually prefer them now.”
- Pens from Karst (Toronto): Sleek and long-lasting.
- Coffee from Pilot Coffee Roasters (Toronto) and Just Us! Coffee (Nova Scotia): “Tastes better, even if it’s pricier.”
- Cleaning supplies from The Unscented Company (Montreal): Minimal, effective, no artificial scents.
- Towels and bedding from Maison Tess. (Montreal): “Probably the nicest sheets I’ve ever owned.”
- Snacks like Hardbite Chips (BC), Maple Leaf Snacks (NB), and Nuts To You (Ontario): "Hardbite Chips have become a problem in my house," they said, adding " “My pantry is looking very Canadian these days."
- Socks from Kotn (Toronto): High quality, sustainably made.
- Cookware from Paderno (PEI): A trusted Canadian staple.
While it may sound like a curated brand haul, the deeper story is about intention and the surprise that these alternatives weren’t just good enough, but often better.
Not just about products — it’s a mindset shift
What began as a curiosity turned into something more meaningful: a daily reminder of the value of local craftsmanship, small businesses and sustainability. And others are catching on.
“My biggest switch was from US pet food to Canadian pet food,” shared u/ProgrammerAvailable6 in the comments. “About $250 a month to Canadian products.”
u/kathmhughes added, “My protein shake is Good Protein from Montreal.”
But it wasn’t just about nutritional choices or household basics. For many, it was the discovery that local products could match, or even exceed expectations that kept them coming back.
“Not a single one [of the Canadian-made products] hasn’t been an upgrade,” wrote u/The_Nice_Marmot. “I’m truly impressed… the Canadian products are superior. I won’t be going back.”
The challenge of cost and the case for value
Cost is the biggest barrier. A Paderno saucepan or organic cotton Kotn tee can easily cost double their big-box counterparts. For many Canadians dealing with tight budgets and inflation, buying local can feel like a luxury.
“I think one of the biggest challenges of buying made-in-Canada stuff is cost,” noted u/HueyBluey. “Many are struggling to get by and can’t afford to be selective… I certainly try my best and will often wait for a sale.”
That said, there’s growing consensus that Canadian-made goods offer better long-term value, with higher durability, ethical sourcing and reduced environmental impact.
“I’d rather a Made in Canada product be renowned for quality and workmanship,” u/HueyBluey continued, echoing a common sentiment among consumers looking for substance over price tags.
Taste of home and a bit of fun
Interestingly, snacks became a sort of patriotic indulgence for many commenters.
“I 100% agree on the Hard Bites problem!” wrote u/LlawEreint. “Partly out of curiosity… and partly out of patriotism. At least, that’s how I’ve been justifying my indulgences ;)”
u/The_Nice_Marmot added with a laugh: “I may have put on about 2 kilos from La Cocina Fiesta Flavour since this Canada thing started.”
A growing movement
The “buy local” movement isn’t new, but it’s gaining traction as Canadians reassess their spending habits in the face of economic uncertainty and global instability.
According to a 2023 BDC report, over 80% of Canadians say they prefer to buy local when possible, but fewer actually do — mainly due to price, availability and convenience. But that was also two years ago, before trade tensions with our neighbours to the south inspired us to pull up our sleeves and get our elbows up and prioritize buying Canadian.
The good news? Stories like u/Conscious-Ad-1409’s show that shifting even part of your household spending can make a meaningful difference to your home, your health and Canadian businesses.
And it doesn’t need to be all or nothing. Try switching out one or two staples, like your morning coffee, your socks or your notebook, and go from there.
Where to start: A quick beginner’s guide, per Redditors
Here are a few Canadian brands to try, as recommended by Redditors:
- Karst (Toronto) – Innovative pens and notebooks made from stone paper
- Paderno (PEI) – Trusted Canadian cookware since 1979
- The Unscented Company (Montreal) – Natural home and body products
- Kotn (Toronto) – Certified B Corp for ethical everyday basics
- Maison Tess. (Montreal) – Premium home textiles
- Pilot Coffee Roasters & Just Us! Coffee – Direct-trade, roasted in Canada
- Hardbite Chips (BC) – Crispy, Canadian-grown, dangerously addictive
- Good Protein (Montreal) – Plant-based shakes made for Canadians
More than just a trend
What this growing community of conscious consumers reveals is more than a preference for local goods, it’s a shift in values. In an era marked by global uncertainty and economic pressures, choosing Canadian-made products is a way to support resilient businesses, nurture sustainable practices and reclaim a sense of connection to the country we call home.
Whether motivated by quality, patriotism or a desire to make more mindful spending choices, Canadians are discovering that buying local is not just feasible, it’s rewarding. As more people experiment with small changes in their everyday shopping, this movement could reshape how we think about consumption, community and economy, one thoughtful purchase at a time.
So, if you’ve been waiting for a sign to try swapping out even one item for a Canadian alternative, this is it. Every purchase is a vote for the kind of economy and country you want to help build. And who knows? You might just find your new favourite brand along the way.
Sources
1. Reddit: r/BuyCanadian: How I built a mini ‘Made-in-Canada’ home setup using only Canadian brands (June 3, 2025)
This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
