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

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

Many people think that cheaper products are not as good, but research studies have shown that customers often can’t distinguish between generic brands and popular brands. In particular when it comes to basic pantry staples like canned goods, 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 name-brand pain relievers or store-brand versions, you’re receiving a similar product at a lower price.

In additional areas like paper goods, you might feel more hesitant to try store brands, though you might be surprised. In case a cleaner isn’t quite right, the money saved can add up over time. Many stores even provide money-back guarantees on store-brand products, making it risk-free to try.

The key is that you can start small. Try switching a few items initially—like baking ingredients, household items, or more info basic groceries. 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 feeling like you’re sacrificing quality.