When you’re running down the supermarket aisle, the options can be daunting. On one hand, you see well-known brands, with their eye-catching packaging and prominent commercials. On the other hand, there are generic items, which are often more affordable but not as well-known. Choosing store brands can be a smart way to save money without sacrificing quality.

Private label products are produced by third-party companies, under the store’s brand. Often, these items are almost identical to their name-brand counterparts. The main difference? Store brands don’t include expensive marketing campaigns that name brands build into the price.

Many people assume that cheaper products are lower quality, but blind taste tests have shown that shoppers frequently can’t tell the difference generic brands and name brands. Especially when it comes to basic pantry staples like canned goods, the quality is practically identical.

For over-the-counter medications, the active ingredients are monitored and must comply with the same click here safety rules, so whether you’re buying name-brand pain relievers or store-brand versions, you’re receiving a similar product at a lower price.

In additional areas like toiletries, you might feel more hesitant to switch to generics, though you might be surprised. In case a cleaner isn’t quite right, the money saved will compensate over time. Many stores even offer return policies on their private-label items, making it risk-free to try.

The important thing is that you can start small. Try switching a few staples at first—like baking ingredients, household items, or basic groceries. Over time, you may be surprised how much you’ve saved. By being open to store brands, you can make a big difference in your household budget without missing out on the quality you expect.