When you’re strolling down the supermarket aisle, the choices can be overwhelming. On one hand, you see name-brand products, with their vibrant packaging and prominent website commercials. On the other hand, there are store-brand items, which are often cheaper but less familiar. Choosing store brands can be a smart way to save money without sacrificing value.
Store brands are produced by outside manufacturers, under the store’s brand. Often, these items are very similar to their name-brand counterparts. The main difference? Private label options don’t come with expensive marketing campaigns that name brands build into their pricing.
Many people think that store brands are lower quality, but research studies have shown that customers often can’t tell the difference generic brands and name brands. In particular when it comes to common household items like canned goods, the product is practically identical.
In the case of medicines, the active ingredients are monitored and must comply with the same safety rules, so whether you’re buying name-brand pain relievers or generic pills, you’re getting the same thing at a fraction of the cost.
In additional areas like cleaners, it may seem a bit risky to switch to generics, but it’s often worth it. Even if a product doesn’t meet your standards, the money saved can add up over time. Many stores even offer money-back guarantees on their private-label items, making it risk-free to try.
The important thing is that you don’t have to go all-in at once. Swap out a few items at first—like baking ingredients, cleaning supplies, 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 feeling like you’re sacrificing quality.