When you’re looking down the supermarket aisle, the options can be daunting. On one hand, you see well-known brands, with their vibrant packaging and prominent commercials. On the other hand, there are generic items, which are often more affordable but less familiar. Opting for store brands can be a wise way to save money without losing value.

Store brands are produced by third-party companies, under the store’s brand. Often, these products are very similar to name-brand versions. The main difference? Store brands don’t come with the high costs of advertising that national brands build into the price.

Many people think that cheaper products are not as good, but blind taste tests have shown that shoppers frequently can’t tell the difference generic brands and name brands. Especially when it comes to common household items like flour, the quality is virtually the same.

In the case of medicines, the core ingredients are regulated and must meet the same standards, so whether you’re buying branded medicine or store-brand versions, you’re getting the same thing at a lower price.

In other categories like cleaners, you might feel more hesitant to try store brands, though you might be website surprised. In case a cleaner doesn’t meet your standards, the money saved can add up over time. Many retailers even provide money-back guarantees on their private-label items, making it risk-free to try.

The key is that you can start small. Try switching a few staples at first—like baking ingredients, cleaning supplies, or basic groceries. Over time, you may be surprised how much you’ve cut from your budget. By being open to private labels, you can make a big difference in your grocery bill without feeling like you’re sacrificing quality.