When you’re running down the grocery store aisle, the choices can be overwhelming. On one hand, you see name-brand products, with their vibrant packaging and heavy advertising. On the other hand, there are store-brand items, which are often cheaper but not as well-known. Opting for store brands can be a smart way to save money without losing value.

Private label products are produced by third-party companies, under the store’s brand. Often, these items are almost identical to name-brand versions. The main difference? Store brands don’t come with the high costs of advertising that name brands build into the price.

Many people assume that cheaper products are not as good, but research studies have shown that customers often can’t distinguish between store brands and popular brands. Especially when it comes to basic pantry staples like salt, the product is virtually the same.

In the case of medicines, the core ingredients are monitored and must meet the same standards, so whether you’re buying branded medicine or generic pills, you’re receiving a similar product at a fraction of the cost.

In other categories like cleaners, you might feel a bit risky to switch to generics, but it’s often worth it. Even if a cleaner isn’t more info quite right, the money saved will compensate over time. Many stores even provide return policies on store-brand products, eliminating the risk to try.

The important thing is that you don’t have to go all-in at once. Swap out a few items initially—like baking ingredients, household items, 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 missing out on the quality you expect.