As a smart shopper, you are always on the lookout for ways to save money. From clipping coupons and watching the weekly ads at the grocery store to taking advantage of websites like Groupon — if there is a deal out there, chances are you will find it.
Another great way to save some serious money is to follow the seasonal sales schedule. Depending on what you need, you can save hundreds or thousands of dollars a year by waiting until a certain month to purchase a wanted item. With this in mind, here’s what’s on sale month-by-month.
January
Retailers know that many of us have created New Year’s resolutions centered on being more organized and/or healthy. As a result, January is the prime time to purchase storage totes, cleaning appliances and exercise equipment. Many stores also feature a “White Sale” in January, where you’ll find deals on bed linens and towels.
February
The two major holidays of the month, Valentine’s Day and President’s Day, can lead to some great savings. Count on jewelry and perfume sales, and big savings on furniture, rugs, mattresses, appliances and computers.
March
March is the time to stock up on cold weather clothing. It’s also when Easter sales start, so you can take advantage of bargain prices on kids’ clothing, dresses for women and suits for men.
April
It’s the time of year when tax returns come in, graduation is upcoming and newer appliance models are coming out. Look for sales on used cars, deals on laptops and computers, and reduced prices on vacuums.
May
Mattress stores need room for the newer models that are coming in, so this is when they are most likely to offer major discounts. Memorial Day Weekend is also a huge sales event; items typically included are major electronics like a flatscreen TV or computer. Dealerships also offer lower prices and great incentives on new cars during May.
June
In honor of wedding season, June brings sales on household items galore, including dishes, kitchen appliances and silverware. Father’s Day means that dad-friendly items like barbecues, golf sets and power tools will be marked down.
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July
With fall coming up fast, July is when most retailers will start marking their summer clothing down. Stock up on swim suits and sandals for next year for the whole family.
August
This is the prime back-to-school sale time; you’ll see deals on backpacks, lunch boxes, inexpensive furniture items and small fridges. Even if you don’t have kids heading to class or teens moving to the dorms, this is the time to load up on office supplies.
September
If you love hunting, fishing and camping, September a great month to save on anything related to the great outdoors.
October
Columbus Day sales are a great time to find low prices on furniture including beds and recliners. And as the weather cools off, this is the time to find deals on fans and air conditioners.
November
This month holds the holy grail of shopping days: Black Friday. Watch for insane mark downs on electronics, gaming consoles and popular toys. Earlier in the month, Veteran’s Day sales usually bring great prices on cars, as dealerships want to move out the current stock for the next year’s models.
December
Many holiday-related items go on sale during December, especially during the second half of the month. Look for deals on decorations, toys and artificial trees.The day after Christmas, head out to find major bargains on gift wrap, tags and bows for next year.
Around Major Holidays
There are also numerous items that should be purchased around major holidays. For example, if you’re buying a new mattress, shopping around Memorial Day, July 4th, or Labor Day can get you big savings. If you’re planning to use credit for these items, there are less expensive options that will also allow you to avoid finance charges.