When you are running down the grocery store aisle, the choices can be daunting. On one hand, you see name-brand products, with their eye-catching packaging and heavy advertising. 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 quality.

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

Many people think that cheaper products are not as good, but check here blind taste tests have shown that shoppers frequently can’t distinguish between store brands and popular brands. Especially when it comes to common household items like salt, the quality is virtually the same.

In the case of medicines, the core 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 receiving a similar product at a lower price.

In other categories like cleaners, you might feel more hesitant to switch to generics, but it’s often worth it. Even if a product doesn’t meet your standards, the savings can add up over time. Many stores even offer money-back guarantees on store-brand products, eliminating the risk to try.

The important thing is that you don’t have to go all-in at once. Try switching a few items at first—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.