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The new year has officially started, and as we move into February, you might be looking for something that can help you keep more money in your wallet when shopping. The end-of-the-season month may offer many great bargains, but there are some things you should not buy at the end of winter if you want to pay the best price.
Here are 10 things you should avoid buying in February.
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Vacuum and carpet cleaner
A good vacuum and carpet cleaner can keep your carpets clean and remove allergens from your home. If you need to replace your vacuum or carpet cleaner, February might not be the ideal time. Prices start to drop in March when people schedule their spring cleaning.
Spring clothing
Yes, some stores start stocking spring clothes as early as February. However, you'll likely pay full price at this time, and you won't see any discounts for a few months. Usually, spring clothes start to go on sale in April or May, so it's best to hold out until then.
Blenders
Blenders are essential kitchen appliances. They're excellent for making smoothies, frozen cocktails, sauces, and even bread. However, you may want to avoid buying a blender in February. You'll probably see the best blender deals around July — when Amazon's Prime Day inspires sales — and over the holidays.
Flowers
Because of Valentine's Day, February is notorious for overcharging shoppers for flowers. If you like fresh flowers in your home or tend to bring some to you, host when invited somewhere, consider a bottle of wine instead, and perhaps invest in a faux plant to decorate your home this month.
Winter gear and tools
January and February usually mark the worst time for the snow and cold. Retailers know this is when many people seek out snowblowers, shovels, skis, and more, so they tend to price them a bit higher at the beginning of the year. Try to wait until March to buy these items to hit the end-of-the-season sales. As demand for these products decreases, the prices tend to dip.
Luggage
Many people travel in winter to visit family for the holidays or to escape cold weather. Once holiday sales are over, luggage tends to be more expensive. Buying luggage during other periods, such as March, April, August, and September, might be a better bet. You can also find many sales during holidays such as Memorial Day and around Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
Smartphones and computers
February may be a good time to buy some electronics like TVs, given the Presidents' Day sale. However, smartphones and computers usually see new model releases in spring, which means many older models go on sale.
Out-of-season produce
Out-of-season produce is often more costly. Not only can it inflate your grocery bill, but off-season fruits and veggies may be less nutrient-dense than those harvested in-season. During February, avoid summer produce, such as berries, zucchini, and watermelon. Instead, try to buy what's in season, such as citrus fruits, root vegetables, Brussels sprouts, and apples.
Fitness gear and memberships
When the weather turns cold, people generally don't look for fitness gear, so stores won't be giving any discounts in this department. As far as memberships go, the start of January was the best time; now, you're better off waiting for the warmer months.
Air purifier
An air purifier can help those with allergies or asthma, or even folks worried about wildfire smoke. However, February might not be the optimal time to buy. When spring rolls around, and people throw open the windows, prices on air purifiers often drop. You also might find good deals in September.
Bottom line
There are some items you should avoid buying in February. Items such as electronics, mattresses, and winter gear might be cheaper later in the year. Knowing the best time to shop for specific items can be an effective way to save more money on your needs, so you can put away more cash or work towards other goals.
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