When you are looking down the grocery store aisle, the choices can be overwhelming. On one hand, you see well-known brands, with their eye-catching packaging and prominent commercials. On the other hand, there are generic items, which are often more affordable but not as well-known. Opting for store brands can be a wise way to save money without losing value.
Store brands are produced by third-party companies, 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 include the high costs of Budget-friendly shopping advertising that national brands build into the price.
Many people assume that store brands are lower quality, but research studies have shown that shoppers frequently can’t tell the difference generic brands and popular brands. In particular when it comes to basic pantry staples like salt, the quality is virtually the same.
For over-the-counter medications, the active ingredients are regulated and must comply with the same safety rules, so whether you’re buying name-brand pain relievers or store-brand versions, you’re getting the same thing at a lower price.
In other categories like cleaners, it may seem a bit risky to switch to generics, though you might be surprised. In case a product doesn’t meet your standards, the savings can add up over time. Many stores even offer return policies on their private-label items, eliminating the risk to try.
The key is that you can start small. Try switching a few staples initially—such as baking ingredients, household items, or snacks. Over time, you'll likely notice how much you’ve cut from your budget. By being open to private labels, you can make a big difference in your household budget without missing out on the quality you expect.