Dirty Little Secret

Long before the nation’s economy began to tank, the budget at Chez Jersey got pretty tight. Something about moving to one of the nation’s most expensive areas (No, for real. That “Real Housewives of New Jersey” that’s starting in May? It was filmed in this county. Though I have never, ever seen any of the women nor have I seen them filming anywhere I frequent. I guess the taqueria’s 2 for 1 Taco Night doesn’t appeal to Bravo.) really cramped my name brand grocery shopping style.

Coupons weren’t enough. So I tried generic. In some cases, such as with ibuprofen and apple juice, I didn’t notice a difference. In other cases, like toilet paper, I discovered that commercials don’t always lie. Generic toilet paper is NOT a good money saving strategy, just FYI. I’ll let you imagine how I know that for sure.

Anyway, another place where I still buy name brand is mouthwash. Specifically, Listerine. Mom Central and Johnson’s recently gave me the newest product for free, which was perfect because I was totally out of coupons and Hot Guy and I seem to get along better when we have Listerine. Possibly because we can cuddle without me feeling faint. Anyway, we have now tried the Total Care, which is a pretty pale purple color.

It fights bad breath, kills cavities, restores enamel, strengthens teeth, fights plaque above the gum line and freshens breath. Also, it doesn’t taste like Jaegermeister, which is usually my problem with mouthwash. I think it’s quite possible that their next product will floss for you as well. So in my bargain shopper opinion, Listerine is totally worth the name brand price. Like toilet paper. But tastier.