8 store-brand products that outperform name brands in your house
Store brands used to have a bad reputation—thin paper towels, weird-tasting snacks, off-brand everything. But that’s changed. Many private-label products now come from the exact same factories as the big brands, only without the marketing markup.
If you’re trying to cut costs without cutting quality, there are store-brand products that actually hold their own—or outperform the name-brand versions entirely. Here are a few worth swapping into your cart next time you shop.
Costco’s Kirkland Batteries
Kirkland batteries are one of the easiest switches to make. They last nearly as long as Duracell and Energizer in most devices, but cost a fraction of the price per pack.
They’re made by a major battery manufacturer, and reliability tests have consistently shown strong performance. For flashlights, remotes, and kids’ toys, you won’t notice a difference—except in your wallet.
Walmart’s Great Value Trash Bags
Trash bags might not seem like something you’d notice, but anyone who’s fought with a ripped liner knows it matters. Great Value’s heavy-duty options are surprisingly tough and hold up against name brands like Glad.
They stretch without tearing and seal odors well. For the price, they handle everything from kitchen waste to garage cleanup without giving up halfway through.
Target’s Up & Up Cleaning Products
Target’s Up & Up line quietly outperforms several big cleaning names. Their all-purpose cleaner and disinfecting wipes work as well as Lysol or Clorox in side-by-side tests.
The formulas are EPA-approved for sanitizing and don’t leave that heavy chemical residue some pricier brands do. They’re a solid swap if you like efficiency without overpaying for labels.
Aldi’s Tandil Laundry Detergent
Aldi’s Tandil detergent line is one of the best-kept secrets in budget cleaning. It consistently ranks near the top in independent tests for stain removal and color retention.
It costs far less per load than Tide or Gain and has a similar fresh scent that isn’t overpowering. If you’re tired of dropping money on big-name soap, Tandil holds up—literally.
Amazon Basics Paper Towels
Amazon’s paper towels are thicker and more absorbent than you’d expect from a store brand. They’re comparable to Bounty in strength but come in at a noticeably lower price.
They hold together when wet and handle small spills without disintegrating. You can buy them in bulk, which makes them ideal if your household goes through rolls fast.
Trader Joe’s Coffee
Trader Joe’s coffee lineup, from their medium roast to the cold brew concentrate, rivals much pricier beans. They’re roasted by reputable suppliers and maintain consistent flavor and freshness.
Many fans swear the taste beats out Starbucks and Peet’s at half the cost. If you grind your own beans, their organic blends make an affordable daily brew that doesn’t taste like budget coffee.
Sam’s Club Member’s Mark Dishwasher Pods
Dishwasher pods are another area where store brands have caught up. Member’s Mark pods clean dishes as effectively as Cascade Platinum in most machines.
They cut through grease, prevent spotting, and come in recyclable packaging. For the price difference, they’re an easy way to cut your grocery bill without lowering standards.
CVS Health Pain Relievers
The FDA requires that generic medications match brand-name formulas in active ingredients and strength—and CVS Health pain relievers do exactly that.
Their acetaminophen and ibuprofen are identical in effect to Tylenol and Advil. You’re paying for the same relief without the brand premium, which adds up fast if you keep pain meds stocked at home.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
