With Valentine’s Day around the corner, you may soon be spending money on cards, teddy bears, perfume or jewelry.
That makes it even more important to save money on all of your other purchases this month.
Here’s a guide from NerdWallet for what to buy, and a few things to skip, right now.
Buy: TVs
February is Super Bowl month, which means shoppers are searching for discounts on
big-screen TVs
.
The beginning of the year is traditionally one of the best times to purchase a new home entertainment item. We’ve already spotted sales on an assortment of TVs at retailers such as Target and Best Buy.
But you’ll want to shop soon — the Super Bowl airs Feb. 3.
Skip: Flowers
Flowers are a Valentine’s Day staple, but if you’re not careful, they’ll overwhelm your budget. If you can, opt for a more
affordable gift
, such as a stuffed animal or a candle. If you insist on sending your sweetie flowers, plan ahead. Some online flower shops offer free standard shipping on select arrangements. Delivery can get more expensive when you order closer to the holiday.
Buy: Valentine’s Day clearance
Buying candy before Feb. 14 won’t be in your best financial interest, but stocking up afterward on treats for your pantry will be. It’ll still taste as sweet, and the price will be even sweeter. In the past, Valentine’s Day clearance events took place at stores such as Target and Walmart. This year, look for similar savings opportunities on seasonal items immediately following the holiday of love.
Skip: Most electronics
Aside from TVs, avoid purchasing consumer electronics this month. Items such as laptops, desktops, tablets and video game consoles are best bought in November, during Black Friday sales. If you can’t wait until then, select retailers hold an early installment during “Black Friday in July” events ahead of the back-to-school season. Amazon is known to hold its Prime Day sale in July, too.
This article originally published on NerdWallet.com
Buy: Winter products
From clothing to sporting equipment, now’s the time to stock up on winter products. You’ll still have time to use the items this year, and you’ll get them at a discount. Winter products are on their way out the door because many retailers have already released spring arrivals, which typically hit shelves at full price.
Shop: Presidents Day sales
There’s another holiday besides Valentine’s Day in February. Presidents Day falls on Feb. 18, and if this year is like previous ones, expect retailers to host holiday weekend sales. They’ll likely focus on home goods, such as bedding, furniture,
mattresses
and small kitchen appliances. You could score free shipping, too.
Last year, we saw deals across an assortment of retailers, including AllModern, Mattress Firm, Overstock and more. Wayfair offered up to 70% off TV stands and cookware, and Lowe’s discounted select appliances by up to 35%.
