Now that we are in the beginning of May, spring is in full swing and the seasons are changing. It’s the perfect time to prepare for the travel, events and fun that summer has in store, and there are plenty of bargains available to help you do so. Here is a guide with the smartest purchases you can make this month, as well as a few things you’ll want to avoid:
Mattresses
May is one of the best times of year to buy a new mattress, especially leading into Memorial Day sales. Many box stores will have mattresses available at deep discounts this month. Though there are many online stores that specialize in shipping a mattress right to your front door, it is still important to try out the type of mattress you are interested in, whether it is firm, plush or memory foam.
Spring Apparel
Most retailers will soon unveil their summer collections, meaning spring clothing will go on sale. You can find deals all month long on spring apparel, with the most significant savings available during Memorial Day weekend when you can combine discounted items with weekend coupons.
Refrigerators
New models of refrigerators will debut in summer, and that means inventory-clearing for older models during the month of May. Obviously you won’t be replacing your refrigerator very often, so if your current appliance is still in good shape, just set yourself a reminder to check on it at this time next year. And when you do buy one, don’t be afraid to ask for an even lower price.
Thrift Store Items
One man’s trash, as they say, is another’s treasure — and consignment shops will be full of thrifted items this month after everyone does some spring cleaning. If you are a fan of secondhand shopping, this is the time that you’ll have the biggest selection. Thrift stores are generally low price to begin with, but you may see even steeper discounts as shops try to clear shelves to make room for more inventory.
Housewares and Cookware
Throughout out the month you will see deals on housewares and cookware at department stores, including indoor furniture. Many of these items are great gifts for graduates and newlyweds, so snag what you need now for this summer’s celebrations.
Gym Membership
If you’re shopping around for a new gym membership, you’re likely to find special rates and discounts this time of year. With warmer weather and more people taking their workouts outdoors, gyms will sweeten the deal to get you to sign up. Just consider whether you really need the facility, or if you could also benefit from (free) outdoor fitness.
What to Avoid
Where new models and a change of seasons mean many products’ prices will drop, there are a number of items you should avoid buying this month. You will see a spike in price with traditional gifts for Mother’s Day, such as jewelry. You might be able to find a good deal on flowers, but read the fine print on delivery costs.
Summer items such as apparel, outdoor tools, grills and patio furniture will still be at full price this month while demand is high, so wait to buy until later in the summer if you can. And while May is an ideal time to buy a new refrigerator, steer clear of other major indoor appliances, which will go on sale later in the year.
With the Worldwide Developers Conference held in June, hold off on buying any Apple products until after the announcement of new devices. Prices will then go down on previous models. Just because something is older doesn’t mean it’s not a good buy — especially if you can get it at a steep discount.
Lastly, don’t forget to take your best judgment with you when you go shopping, whether it’s online or in the store. If you need something new and it’s not on sale, that doesn’t necessarily mean you should buy a cheap version just to spend less money. Invest in the better quality brand and you’ll have the item much longer, making your purchase a smart one. Keep tabs on when certain products go on sale all year long, and time your purchases — that’s frugal shopping!
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The Best Purchases to Make in May originally appeared on usnews.com
