Timing is everything—especially when it comes to shopping. The secret to scoring the best deals isn’t just about clipping coupons or waiting for sales; it’s knowing the best month to buy what you need. Ready to save big and outsmart the retail gods? Let’s break down the best months to buy, well, everything.

January: New Year, new deals

  • Fitness equipment: Everyone’s in fitness mode post-holidays, and stores are eager to cash in. Look for discounts on treadmills, weights, and yoga gear.
  • Bedding and linens: It’s time for the annual ‘white sales,’ with big discounts on sheets, towels, and comforters.
  • TVs and electronics: Stores clear out older models before the Super Bowl.

February: sweet deals for savvy shoppers

  • TVs: Yes, they’re still on sale for the Super Bowl. But don’t wait too long!
  • Winter clothes: End-of-season clearance sales mean huge discounts on winter wear like coats, boots, and scarves.
  • Home appliances: Presidents’ Day brings some of the very best deals on washers, dryers, and refrigerators.

March: spring into savings

  • Luggage: With spring break on the horizon, stores discount luggage to attract vacationers.
  • Frozen food: March is National Frozen Food Month (yeah, we have no idea why, either), and you’ll find discounts on everything from pizza to veggies.
  • Gardening supplies: Early birds can snag great deals on seeds, tools, and outdoor decor before peak gardening season hits.

April: blooming bargains

  • Spring clothing: Stores push spring apparel sales to make room for summer styles.
  • Easter candy: Stock up on discounted chocolate and sweets right after Easter.
  • Used cars: Tax season means dealerships are eager to move older inventory.

May: pre-summer savings

  • Mattresses: Memorial Day sales usually have deep discounts on mattresses and furniture.
  • Small kitchen appliances: Things like blenders and mixers are often on sale for Mother’s Day (even though giving mom an appliance probably isn’t a good idea…)
  • Gardening tools: If you missed March, May also has deals on outdoor gear.

June: summer ready

  • Gym memberships: As the summer heat takes more people outdoors, gyms lower prices to lure new members.
  • Tools: Father’s Day sales mean discounts on power tools and DIY kits.
  • Lingerie: Semi-annual sales at stores like Victoria’s Secret mean steep markdowns. (Which is weird. You’d think it would be February, but…)

July: beat the heat with hot deals

  • Clothing: Summer apparel hits clearance racks as stores prepare for fall lines.
  • Amazon Prime Day: This mid-July event offers discounts on everything from tech to home goods.
  • Outdoor furniture: End-of-season sales start early for patio sets and grills.

August: back-to-school bonanza

  • School supplies: Stock up during tax-free weekends (if your state offers them).
  • Laptops and electronics: Retailers target students with tech deals.
  • Swimwear: Summer’s end means big savings on swimsuits.

September: falling prices

  • Appliances: Labor Day brings deals on large appliances and mattresses.
  • Cars: Dealers clear out current-year models to make way for next year’s inventory.
  • Bikes: Outdoor gear, including bicycles, starts to go on sale.

October: cozy up to savings

  • Outdoor furniture: Prices drop as patio season ends.
  • Camping gear: Retailers slash prices on tents, sleeping bags, and coolers.
  • Jeans: Back-to-school season is over, and denim prices drop.

November: the ultimate shopping month

  • Electronics: Black Friday and Cyber Monday deliver unbeatable deals on TVs, laptops, and gadgets.
  • Toys: Stock up on holiday gifts during early November sales.
  • Kitchenware: Thanksgiving prep means discounts on cookware and appliances.

December: year-end clearance extravaganza

  • Tools and hardware: Contractors slow down, and stores offer discounts to clear inventory.
  • Holiday decor: Buy lights, ornaments, and wrapping paper for next year at up to 75% off.

Cars: End-of-year sales events bring massive savings on vehicles.