Never Buy the Generic Versions of These 8 Items, Experts Say

1 | Toilet Paper

Public restrooms often have cheap toilet paper at the ready because it’s affordable and easy to buy in bulk, but your home is worthy of a splurge. “Avoid the stuff that basically feels like sandpaper,” Julie Ramhold, consumer analyst with DealNews.com says. She adds that since the inexpensive stuff is so thin, you’ll end up using more, which is just flushing money away, literally.

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2 | Baby Products

When it comes to buying baby products, keeping your child safe and healthy is essential. Erring on the side of caution is highly recommended. “Generic baby products may not be made with the same high-quality materials as name-brand products, and they may not meet the same safety standards,” Jen Stark, the founder of Happy DIY Home shares. The ingredients are sub-par and buying generic brings can have a higher risk of an allergic reaction or health hazard.

3 | Shoes

“If you're looking for a specific style or need a certain level of support, branded shoes are always the way to go," Luke Lee, the CEO of Palaleather says. Cheaper, universal shoes will wear out so much sooner, which can lead to aches and pains from lack of support. It’s easy to shop clearance or find a name brand that’s on sale—your body will thank you in the long haul.

4 | Batteries

Batteries are available at all kinds of retailers, but name brands will perform better in the long run. "You might think that all batteries are created equal, but that’s not the case," Stark tells Best Life. Generic options are often made with lower quality materials. If you’re using batteries for life-saving devices such as pacemakers or hearing aids, it’s crucial to make sure you’re getting the most out of the product. The cheaper batteries could also damage your electronics if they start to leak acid.

5 | Tools

Tools like small screwdrivers or items meant for quick fixes are perfectly fine to purchase at a cheaper price. However, bigger things like power tools or a whole kit are better to buy from a name brand. “While they might be cheaper up front, odds are good these items won't last and you'll end up having to replace them sooner,” Ramhold says. Quality brands are more likely to last, plus these will have higher safety ratings which can ultimately prevent injuries and malfunctions.

6 | Paint

Buying generic paint may seem like a good idea when you look at the price tag, but your finished project might not look the best. You may not achieve that coveted smooth finish and you’ll have to use multiple coats to fill in all the gaps and bumps. "This goes for pretty much any paint, whether it's meant for painting houses, spray paint for small projects, or even craft paint,” says Ramhold. Spring for the good stuff right off the bat for the best experience.

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7 | Workout Gear

Exercising in a t-shirt and shorts is fine, but if you’re looking for certain fabric or clothing that’s made for a workout, then generic is not the best option. Regular clothes can be uncomfortable and “name brands often have innovative fabrics and design features that improve comfort and performance,” Lee says. It’s all about the quality, and the brands you splurge on will last through all the sweat!

8 | Plastic Wrap

Known as cling wrap, you would think any sort of plastic wrap would do its job and stick. “If you've ever used bargain plastic wrap, you know that somehow it doesn't stick to anything, not even itself," says Ramhold. She does say there is one exception, though: Costco's Kirkland Signature brand. "You can buy a huge amount of plastic wrap that works as great as any name-brand I've ever used.”