Does it matter? Sometimes it does. I find that I tend to be more particular when I’m buying food products, but far less when it comes to home, health, and hygiene. In fact, there are some items that I just won’t buy for the brand name because the increased cost is quite significant. I thought that I’d share some of them with you.

Bleach- Do I need mountain fresh scents wafting from my linens? No, I don’t. Actually, I appreciate the smell of bleach, because it reminds me that everything’s clean.

Fabric Sheets and Laundry detergent- I’ve used both name brand and store brand and never noticed a significant difference.

Light bulbs- I’m such a klutz that I’m regularly knocking over lamps, and my overhead fixtures seem to burn out quite quickly; regardless of how much I’ve paid for them.

Cotton balls- Hey, if you feel much better because yours were made by Johnson & Johnson, so be it. That’s just not me. So long as it’s 100% cotton, it works.

Medical supplies- From hydrocortisone cream to triple antibiotic ointment and other staples such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, petroleum jelly, and adhesive bandages- The cost all adds up and buying store brands can save you beaucoup dinero.

Saline solution- Many stores have their own brand, even the all in one kinds. Given that not even Bausch and Lomb can be counted on to make a product without risking contamination, I feel quite comfortable taking my chances.

Tampons- Call me crazy, but I could care less if mine are pearly, have braided cords, and smell like flowers. All I require is that they do their job. Do this, and save at least a buck or two a month.

Conversely, there are some things that are worth their brand name in gold. Here’s the list of products I just can’t skimp with.

Saran wrap, in particular that of the seal and press variety- Nothing beats this stuff. Nothing.

Aluminum foil- I dare you to try to peel out a length of the cheap stuff without ripping it.

Hair products- I know what they say about it all being the same, but I disagree. Once you find something that works for you, stick with it. Nothing’s worth a string of bad hair days.

Makeup- **See Hair products (but substitute “bad makeup days”).

Toothpaste- Nothing, and I mean nothing, is worth risking your chomps. You need to trust me on this one. I’m happier thinking that all of the testing the ADA conducts is significant.

Paper towel- There’s true value when it doesn’t fall apart mid task. One of the best and affordable brands I’ve found is Viva.

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