When you’re looking down the supermarket aisle, the options can be daunting. On one hand, you see name-brand products, with their vibrant packaging and heavy advertising. On the here other hand, there are generic items, which are often more affordable but less familiar. Choosing store brands can be a smart way to save money without losing quality.

Store brands are produced by outside manufacturers, 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 the high costs of advertising that national 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 basic pantry staples like sugar, the product is virtually the same.

For over-the-counter medications, the active ingredients are monitored and must meet the same standards, so whether you’re buying branded medicine or generic pills, you’re getting the same thing at a lower price.

In other categories like toiletries, it may seem more hesitant to try store brands, but it’s often worth it. Even if a cleaner isn’t quite right, the savings can add up over time. Many stores even offer money-back guarantees on their private-label items, eliminating the risk to try.

The key is that you can start small. Swap out a few items initially—like baking ingredients, household items, or snacks. 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 grocery bill without missing out on the quality you expect.