Holiday clearance deals can be HOT starting the day after Christmas. We’ve compiled some of the best things to buy, so you know what you should buy, and maybe what to pass on. Just because it’s on sale, doesn’t mean you should buy it!
Before you jump in and buy, there are some general rules as to the discounts and when they happen:
- 50% off sales start the day after the holiday and run for around 10 days.
- 75% off sales usually kick in at day 10 or later.
- 90% off sales normally happen at 2 weeks or later.
This is just a guide and some stores will vary the timing when the items are marked down further. This schedule will give you an idea when to shop. If you really want to hit the 75% off sale, stop by your store starting on day 7 and return each day until it is at 75% off. You now know your store’s schedule!
1. Christmas Lights
Christmas Lights can be used year round in the patio, at weddings or to decorate a birthday party. You can find some of the best deals on lights the day after Christmas. These are often the items which sell out most quickly, so stop by as early as you can on December 26th so you can find items in stock.
2. Wrapping Paper and Bows
Bows can be used for events other than Christmas. If you can find bags with solid colors, you can use them on birthday gifts or other crafts throughout the year. Even if you don’t need them during the year, you can box them up and use them next year.
Wrapping paper is another item to grab. Stock up on what you need for next year. You should also grab solid colors if you can find them. They will work for birthdays, anniversaries and more during the year!
It is also smart to grab rolls of ribbon. If you do any crafting, this is the time when you can score deep discounts on this crafting supply.
3. Bath and Body Sets
Stores always discount these immediately after Christmas. You don’t have to give these away as gifts. Pick them up to use yourself. Finding those with body wash or other personal care products gives you the items you need at a discount.
Make sure you don’t forget to use your coupons too! Coupons still work on clearance items, which increases your savings.
4. Holiday Dresses
If you plan ahead to buy your kid’s clothes in advance for the next season, Christmas clearance is a great time for you to get those expensive dresses at 50% off! Some of these are in reds, purples and blacks and can be worn throughout the rest of the winter season as well! Red is the perfect color for Valentine’s Day.
5. Blankets
Believe it or not, many stores put out holiday blankets, that may not always have holiday themes. Score fuzzy, warm blankets and throws for 50% off starting the day after Christmas! One place to find deals is Walmart. They often have blankets for around $6 or less making them just $3 when on clearance.
6. Christmas Trees
If you’re looking to replace your artificial tree, make yourself wait until after Christmas, and get one for a fraction of the price. This is another item which sells out quickly, so you need to be there early so you can get the one that you want.
7. Paper Goods.
Paper plates, cups and napkins work – no matter the color. Grab red for your upcoming Valentine’s Day party or green for St. Patrick’s Day. If someone you know is getting married and needs these items, grab the color to go with their wedding.
If you have kids you can get a discount on the paper products for next year’s party. Grab them now and box them up. When they ask for volunteers for items, you can jump in and have the items you need.
8. Candy.
Grab a few bags and toss them into your freezer. While you won’t save them for next year, you can get a sweet treat for much less.
9. Baking Items.
You can find cake mixes, frosting and sprinkles – all on sale. The sprinkles will keep for next year, so you should never have to pay full price for your baking decorations.
When it comes to frosting or cake mixes, you can get these. However, you will need to use them before they go bad. A fun idea is to plan an “Un-Christmas” party and have cupcakes and other fun holiday treats.
10. Boxes / Sacks.
It seems that everything I buy for my family is oddly shaped. That usually means a box to help make wrapping it easier. Grab those boxes for gifts and put the away for next year.
Also look for gift sacks and bags. Some can be used only for Christmas, but you might find solid colored sacks to use for other gifts during the year.
Photo Credit: All Four Love Blog
