When you’re looking down the grocery store aisle, the options can be overwhelming. On one hand, you see name-brand products, with their vibrant packaging and Budget-friendly shopping prominent commercials. On the other hand, there are generic items, which are often more affordable but less familiar. Opting for store brands can be a smart way to save money without losing value.

Store brands are produced by outside manufacturers, but sold under the retailer’s name. Often, these items are very similar to their name-brand counterparts. The main difference? Private label options don’t come with the high costs of advertising that national brands build into their pricing.

Many people think that store brands are lower quality, but research studies have shown that customers frequently can’t tell the difference generic brands and name brands. Especially when it comes to common household items like salt, the quality is virtually the same.

In the case of medicines, the active ingredients are regulated and must meet the same standards, so whether you’re buying branded medicine or generic pills, you’re getting the same thing at a lower price.

In other categories like cleaners, you might feel more hesitant to try store brands, but it’s often worth it. In case a cleaner isn’t quite right, the money saved can add up over time. Many stores even provide return policies 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 staples at first—like baking ingredients, household items, or snacks. Over time, you'll likely notice 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.