The Shocking Way Store Brands Can Save You Hundreds

When you are walking down the grocery store aisle, the options can be daunting. On one hand, you see name-brand products, with their vibrant packaging and heavy advertising. On the other hand, there are generic items, which are often more affordable but not as well-known. Choosing store brands can be a wise way to cut costs without sacrificing value.

Store brands are produced by third-party companies, but sold under the retailer’s name. Often, these products are very similar to name-brand versions. The main difference? Private label options don’t include the high costs of advertising that name brands here build into their pricing.

Many people assume that cheaper products are not as good, but blind taste tests have shown that customers frequently can’t distinguish between store brands and popular brands. Especially when it comes to basic pantry staples like sugar, the product is virtually the same.

In the case of medicines, the core ingredients are monitored 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 paper goods, it may seem a bit risky to try store brands, though you might be surprised. In case a cleaner doesn’t meet your standards, the money saved will compensate over time. Many retailers 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. Swap out a few staples initially—like baking ingredients, household items, or basic groceries. Over time, you may be surprised how much you’ve saved. By being open to private labels, you can make a big difference in your household budget without feeling like you’re sacrificing quality.