When you are running down the grocery store aisle, the choices can be daunting. 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 more affordable but not as well-known. Opting for store brands can be a smart way to cut costs without losing value.

Private label products are manufactured by outside manufacturers, 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 national brands build into their pricing.

Many people assume that cheaper products are lower quality, but research studies have shown that customers often can’t tell the difference generic website brands and popular brands. In particular when it comes to common household items like sugar, the product is virtually the same.

In the case of medicines, the core ingredients are regulated and must meet the same standards, so whether you’re buying name-brand pain relievers or generic pills, you’re receiving a similar product at a lower price.

In additional areas like cleaners, it may seem more hesitant to switch to generics, though you might be surprised. Even if a product doesn’t meet your standards, the money saved will compensate over time. Many stores even offer money-back guarantees 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 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.