Buzz
In retail tradition, the week following Christmas has often been the prime time for significant markdowns on leftover holiday merchandise. Stores aim to clear their inventory, while shoppers look for great deals. However, the rise of online shopping has altered the landscape, prompting brick-and-mortar stores to adjust their strategies as well.
You no longer need to wait for events like Memorial Day or Labor Day to snag the best deals on items like mattresses—there are sales happening year-round. Similarly, after-Christmas discounts aren't always what they once were. Nonetheless, deals can still be found if you know where to look—and what to steer clear of.
Best Items to Grab from After-Christmas Sales
First, let's take a look at the items that tend to be a real bargain during this time of year:
Anything related to Christmas or other year-end festivities
It’s a no-brainer, but still worth mentioning: now is the perfect time to grab the best deals on things you won’t need until next holiday season. Think things like wrapping paper, holiday cards, Christmas decorations, festive clothing—you get the idea. The downside is, you’ll need to store these items for nearly a year.
Everyday products in holiday-themed packaging
Here’s where you can snag great prices on things you might actually need or want right away (or to gift to someone you missed before Christmas). This includes things like your favorite snacks or candies in festive packaging (that still have a decent shelf-life), or a holiday gift set filled with regular products like bath bombs, socks, or nail polish, for example.
Winter wear is currently on sale as stores prepare for spring arrivals. It’s a great time to grab cozy sweaters, puffer jackets, scarves, mittens, boots, and comfy slippers before they’re gone.
While ugly Christmas sweaters may steal the spotlight, many stores are also marking down their winter gear. As Kristin McGrath notes in a post for Offers.com, these discounts kick off in January to make room for spring stock, so now is the time to snag those warm clothes at a fraction of the cost.
What should you skip at after-holiday sales? Here’s what to look out for.
Here are a few things that aren’t worth picking up in post-Christmas sales:
Display models or floor samples are often priced lower, but they’ve usually seen significant wear and tear. It’s better to wait for new stock.
While it’s tempting to scoop up discounted floor models, they might not be the best investment. As Emily VanSchmus notes in Better Homes & Gardens, these items have been on display for months, meaning they've probably been knocked around by shopping carts and rowdy kids. Don’t expect them to be in perfect condition.
Anything related to fitness or exercise.
If you're committed to getting in shape this year (and not just because the media tells you to), hold off on buying any workout gear, fitness trackers, or exercise equipment right away. As Marketwatch points out, these products are often priced higher at the start of the year to capitalize on your new year resolutions.
Items that can’t be returned.
Before making a purchase during end-of-year sales or clearances, make sure to read the fine print. You’ll want to ensure the item can be returned if it doesn’t meet your expectations. As with floor models, these clearance items might be damaged or of lower quality, so it's important to check carefully.
