When you’re shopping for everyday household items, it’s easy to gravitate toward big-name expensive brands. They’re familiar, often well-advertised, and seem like a safer choice. However, opting for generic or store-brand products instead can make a significant difference in your spending.
What Makes Generic Products Different
Generic products are essentially no-frills versions of their branded counterparts. They’re typically produced by the same manufacturers or meet the same quality standards, but they come with simpler packaging, fewer marketing expenses, and lower prices. These cost savings are passed on to the consumer, making generic options more affordable.
Everyday Savings Add Up
The savings you can make from buying generic can add up quickly, especially for items you purchase frequently. Consider groceries like canned goods, rice, or cereal. Store-brand versions often cost 20% to 50% less than their branded counterparts. Over the course of a year, this can translate to hundreds of dollars in savings.
The same goes for household items like cleaning supplies or toiletries. A generic hand soap or laundry detergent often works just as well as a brand-name product but costs significantly less. When you consistently choose generic across multiple categories, the savings can reach thousands over time.
Quality You Can Count On
One of the biggest misconceptions about generic products is that they’re lower quality, but that’s rarely the case. For many items, the production standards and ingredients are identical to name-brand options. With food products, generic brands often source ingredients from the same suppliers as well-known brands. The difference is typically in packaging and marketing, not in what’s inside the box.
Where to Start
If you’re new to buying generic, start with non-perishable items or staples you use often. Canned vegetables, pasta, and condiments are great places to begin as generic versions of these products are usually just as flavorful and versatile as name brands.
For household essentials, try items like paper towels, trash bags, or dish soap. These are everyday necessities where the brand name matters less than functionality. Over time, you’ll likely discover that many generics perform just as well as—or even better than—branded products.
When to Be Cautious
While buying generic is a smart choice most of the time, there are a few instances where it’s worth being more selective. For highly specialized items, like certain electronics or skincare products, it’s a good idea to research reviews or compare features to ensure the generic option meets your needs.
Additionally, if you’re buying something for a specific recipe or task, you may want to stick with a brand you recognize and trust, especially if it has unique attributes. Even so, most of your everyday purchases can safely switch to generic without any noticeable difference.
Build Better Habits
Incorporating more generic products into your shopping routine is an easy habit to build. Start by comparing prices the next time you’re at the store, take note of the savings on products you buy often, and try a few generic options to see how they stack up. Over time, choosing these products can become second nature, helping you save money without feeling like you’re missing out.