When you are looking down the grocery store aisle, the options can be overwhelming. On one hand, you see well-known brands, with their vibrant packaging and heavy advertising. On the other hand, there are generic items, which are often more affordable but not as well-known. Choosing store brands can be a wise way to read more save money without losing value.

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

Many people think that cheaper products are lower quality, but research studies have shown that shoppers often can’t tell the difference generic brands and popular brands. In particular when it comes to basic pantry staples like sugar, the quality is practically identical.

For over-the-counter medications, the core ingredients are regulated and must comply with the same safety rules, so whether you’re buying branded medicine or store-brand versions, you’re receiving a similar product at a fraction of the cost.

In other categories like toiletries, it may seem more hesitant to try store brands, but it’s often worth it. Even if a cleaner isn’t quite right, the savings can add up over time. Many retailers even provide return policies on their private-label items, eliminating the risk to try.

The key is that you don’t have to go all-in at once. Swap out a few items at first—such as baking ingredients, cleaning supplies, or basic groceries. Over time, you'll likely notice how much you’ve cut from your budget. By being open to store brands, you can make a big difference in your household budget without feeling like you’re sacrificing quality.