TIME CAPSULE: Of great concern to most housebound women was the rationing of metal items. In 2.1942 “the production of refrigerators, vacuum cleaners, home radios, washing-machines ”¦ and domestic sewing machines was stopped and many other standard consumer goods sharply curtailed.” Replacement stoves or sinks could not be purchased, nor could women obtain such simple items as pots and pans. These shortages were especially severe for brides and women trying to set up housekeeping in new locations near defense industries. (American women during World War II: an encyclopedia – Page 99)