When you’re running down the supermarket aisle, the choices can be overwhelming. On one hand, you see name-brand products, with their eye-catching packaging and prominent commercials. On the other hand, there are generic items, which are often cheaper but less familiar. Opting for store brands can be a wise way to save money without sacrificing quality.

Store brands 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 include expensive marketing campaigns that name brands build into the price.

Many people assume that cheaper products are lower quality, but research studies have shown that customers frequently can’t tell the difference store brands and name brands. In particular when it comes to common household items like salt, the quality is practically identical.

For over-the-counter medications, the active 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 getting the same thing at a lower price.

In additional areas like toiletries, you might feel a bit risky to switch to generics, though you might be surprised. Even if a product isn’t quite right, the savings can add up over time. Many stores even provide return policies on their private-label items, making it risk-free to try.

The key is that you don’t have to go all-in at once. Try switching a few items initially—such as baking ingredients, household items, or snacks. more info Over time, you may be surprised how much you’ve saved. By being open to store brands, you can make a big difference in your household budget without missing out on the quality you expect.