Ditch Name Brands: Why Store Brands Are Just as Good

When you’re running down the grocery store aisle, the options 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 store-brand items, which are often cheaper but not as well-known. Opting for store brands can be a wise way to save money without sacrificing quality.

Private label products are manufactured by third-party companies, under the store’s brand. Often, these items are very similar to name-brand versions. The main difference? Store brands don’t come with expensive marketing campaigns that name brands build into the price.

Many people think that cheaper products are not as good, but blind taste tests have shown that shoppers often can’t tell the difference store brands and name brands. Especially when it comes to basic pantry staples like read more salt, the product is practically identical.

In the case of medicines, the active ingredients are regulated 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 additional areas like cleaners, it may seem more hesitant to try store brands, though you might be surprised. In case a cleaner doesn’t meet your standards, the money saved 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 don’t have to go all-in at once. Try switching a few items at first—such as 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 private labels, you can make a big difference in your household budget without missing out on the quality you expect.