These Are the Top Items That Always Go On Sale in January

After a busy holiday season, shopping may not be at the forefront of your mind. But if you didn’t get everything on your wish list, or if you've made a New Year’s resolution to become a savvier shopper, then you’ll want to keep your eyes open for these goods.
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The holidays are over, and you’re faced with the long, dark months of January and February. But if your New Year’s resolution is to save money and maximize your deals, January is the perfect time to get started. Here are the top items that always go on sale in January.

Exercise Equipment

Gyms and retailers of exercise equipment are well aware that many folks resolve to get in shape in the new year. This is why you’ll find great deals on membership fees, fitness classes, and sportsĀ equipmentĀ in January.

Linens

White sales abound at the beginning of the year, so it’s the perfect time to stock up on new bedsheets. The annual sale has been a tradition across the country since 1878, when department store pioneer John Wanamaker sold linens at deep discount to make up for disappointing Christmas season sales. Today, many white sales include a range ofĀ bedding items, towels, and other household linens.

Rugs

It’s not uncommon for people toĀ update their home decorĀ before the holidays so everything looks fresh for company. But if you didn’t get around to redecorating before Christmas, you might be in luck. With the holiday rush now over, many carpet and rug stores offer sales to lure customers and move stock to make room for the next season’s styles.

Furniture

Like carpet stores,Ā furniture storesĀ also use the post-holiday lull to clear out the previous season’s inventory. If you don’t mind buying last year’s styles, sprucing up your home in January is a smart choice.

Holiday Decor

While it may be bittersweet to see stores marking down their holiday stock, smart shoppers can score big by loading up on holiday cards,Ā wrapping paper, and decorations at a fraction of the original retail price. Just remember where you stash the stuff so you don’t overbuy next year!

Calendars

If you can manage going a few days without a calendar or planner, then wait to buy these items until after New Year’s Day. Once January 1 arrives, those perfectly good calendars will be consideredĀ outdatedĀ and hit the clearance section in stores.

Jewelry

In preparation for Valentine’s Day, most retailers begin their jewelry promotions in January. This is a good time to shop around for a sparkly piece, from an engagement ring to a pearl bracelet,Ā at an affordable price.

Bikes

Winter weatherĀ isn’t exactly ideal for bike riding, which is precisely why most stores sell bikes at a discount in January. Once February arrives, retailers get a new stock of the latest in wheels, so buy yours at a low price while you can.

Electronics

The generally accepted wisdom is thatĀ Black FridayĀ is the best time to buy electronics. If you missed your chance to pick up a cheap flat-screen in November, you have another chance in January. To make space for the latest models, stores put televisions on sale in the new year. The tempting prices are also a marketing ploy targeted at shoppers gearing up for Super Bowl Sunday.

 
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Katie Nolan

Senior Editor of Audience Development

Katie Nolan is a former senior editor of audience development for BobVila.com who joined the team in 2016 to create and develop content for BobVila.com newsletters and social media.


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