In these times of rising costs, every penny counts. Dave Ramsey, the money expert, suggests a simple way to save—choose generic products. From grocery essentials to cleaning products, store-brand products provide the same quality without burning a hole in your pocket. So, the next time you shop, look for the generic versions of the following items.
Pantry staples
Certain products like canned goods, flour, rice, salt, and sugar are essential to your kitchen. Whether you choose name-brand or generic products, the taste remains the same. Many chefs admit to buying generic staple items like salt, sugar, and baking soda.
Usually, generic products are manufactured by the same company that produces the name-brand version. The markup between the two products pays for advertising.
So, the next time you’re restocking your kitchen, be wise and buy generic.
Trash Bags
Trash bags are made to end up in the trash. So, don’t waste money on name brands; choose cheaper generic brands instead. Some brands advertise that their bags are stronger and can carry heavier loads. But is your trash really that heavy? If you are worried about the bag tearing, throw out the garbage before you overfill the bag.
Medication
According to the FDA, generic medicines must use the same active ingredients and undergo the same level of rigorous testing as brand-name equivalents to ensure their safety and effectiveness.
Name-brand medicines cost extra because you are paying for the branding. So, why pay extra for branding when generic medicines can offer the same relief at a lower cost?
Cereals
Many of the most popular breakfast cereals on the shelves have generic alternatives that are just as good. Aldi, Trader Joe’s, Walmart, and Target sell versions of popular cereals like Cheerios and Fruit Loops.
Many of them look and taste the same; the only difference is their packaging. And, of course, the price. Generic brands are often half the cost of name-brand cereals.
Paper Plates and Napkins
When it comes to disposable tableware like paper plates and napkins, the brand name rarely adds any real value. Generic options perform the same basic function – holding food and wiping spills – without the inflated price tag.
Why pay more for a name that ends up in the trash? Choose generic and keep more money in your pocket for things that truly matter.
Cleaning products
TV commercials often claim that brand-name cleaners outperform generics, but the truth is, there’s usually very little difference between them. Frequently, their ingredients are nearly identical to those in name-brand options, as highlighted on the labels.
Look for “compare to” bottle information to ensure you get the same active ingredients. Generic cleaning products are an easy way to cut costs without compromising quality. Brands like Great Value can save you up to 30% per product.
Pet Food
Loving your pet doesn’t mean you have to feed them the most expensive pet food. Ramsey suggests talking to your vet about the best cost-effective pet food options and not skimping on nutrition. Your vet will guide you to quality generic brands that fit your budget and keep your pet happy and healthy.
Diapers and Baby Wipes
If you’re a parent, you know the endless number of diapers you go through on a daily basis. You obviously want a product that’ll do the job without breaking the bank.
Diapers from Up&Up, Target, and Walmart are not only cheaper but also softer and more durable than name-brand options. Don’t pay double for something that you will eventually throw away.
Personal Care Products
Generic personal care items, such as contact lens solutions and some makeup/skincare products, often share the same ingredients as pricier brands. While it’s okay to splurge on some items if your budget allows it, don’t overlook the savings on generics.
Ramsey advises checking ingredient labels to ensure they meet your needs. You can save money without sacrificing quality.
Bottled Water
Most store-brand bottled water is just as good as name brands, often coming from the same sources or even being filtered tap water. The Environmental Working Group’s study shows that nearly 64% of bottled water in America is tap water.
Blind taste tests often can’t tell the difference. So, save money by choosing generic bottled water without sacrificing quality. It’s a simple way to be budget-smart.
Condiments And Spices
Generic condiments, like ketchup and mustard, offer great taste at a fraction of the price of the name-brand products. Buying them is a wise choice for budget-conscious shoppers.
Similarly, store-brand spices are often just as fresh and flavorful as their name-brand counterparts. They are frequently sourced from the same suppliers. Buy store-brand spices in bulk and store them in a cool, dark place to maintain their freshness and save money.
Storage Containers
When organizing items for storage in places like the attic, garage, or even closets, there’s often no practical benefit to choosing expensive name-brand bins. Generic storage containers are designed to serve the same primary purpose: containing and protecting your belongings.
The key is functionality, not the label. By opting for generic, you’re making a budget-conscious choice. So, box it up smartly and save.
