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Last updated on December 26th, 2023 at 10:15 am
In The Purple Ruby’s Buy This & Not That Series, we share an informative list of what to buy in January and what you should be holding off until another time so you can get the best deals and be a smart shopper.
With a new year upon us, January is the perfect month to become a smart shopper, form new habits, and save money by knowing the right time to buy! Find out what to buy in January and what not to buy in January with our Buy This & Not That January Smart Shopper Guide — and get the most out of your spending budget!
The Buy This & Not That Smart Shopper Guide below highlights what seasonal sales are happening in January including major holiday sales and national days that occur this month. You can score the best deals plus we’ve also included a list of the current produce that is in season for January.
By following the monthly retail trends for January, you will be able to take advantage of all the sweet deals when it comes to shopping and keep more money in your pocket.
In today’s economy, we all need to be smart shoppers. When it comes to planned purchases, knowing the right time to buy is key to shopping smarter and saving money. Now check out what to buy in January.
Buy This
Holiday-Themed Clearance. In the earlier part of the month, you can still score major marked down Holiday items (wrapping paper, decor, gift sets, and food items like Hickory Farms packages).
Winter Clothing. Although in many places winter is just settling in, January is when retailers start marking down winter clothes, shoes, and boots to make room for their spring arrivals. I actually saw Target set up their swimwear section at the end of December so I’m sure this is a sign you can find some great deals on winter styles.
Beddings and Linens. January will bring on all of the white sales for sheets, bedding, towels, pillows, and linens. Stock up while you can.
Exercise Equipment, Fitness Gear (including sports watches) & Gym Memberships. With the New Year comes New Year’s Resolutions and this is when you should strike on exercise equipment, fitness gear, and gym memberships. Keep track of your fitness progress with deals on bathroom scales, Apple and Samsung Galaxy Watches, and Fitbits.
Small Kitchen Appliances. With New Year’s Resolutions, comes eating healthier and making more meals at home. Look for deals on small appliances such as egg cookers and small food processors.
Organization and Cleaning Supplies. A new year translates to a focus on cleaning up after the holidays and prepping your home for Spring. You’ll find seasonal deals on cleaning products including laundry detergents, all-purpose cleaners, and Swiffers. Get organized with storage totes and shelving.
TV’s & Electronics. Watch for TV deals towards the end of the month as we get closer to the February Super Bowl.
Deals Found
Keep checking back as we update the latest deals:
Don’t Buy That
- Mattresses. The President’s Day Sales in February will bring on all of the mattress sales so hold off on buying these items in January. I know I will be looking for a mattress deal this year.
- Major Appliances. Larger appliances will also be on sale in February for the President’s Day Sales.
- Spring Clothes. Although the stores will be full of Spring clothing, the best deals won’t be for a few more months.
- Jewelry. Valentine jewelry sales will be in February.
Save The Date
January White Sales – January 1
January 1st marks the beginning of the January White Sales. Besides the usual bedding, sheets, towels, and linens, be on the lookout for other markdowns including winter clothes, shoes and boots, luggage, and any remaining after Christmas items still in stock like gift wrap, holiday cards, holiday decor, and toys. The January White Sale will last throughout the whole month so be sure to check out all the major department stores and online merchants.
National Spaghetti Day – January 4
Keep an eye out for freebie deals at Restaurants to celebrate!
Martin Luther King Day – January 16
The National Park Service offers free admission / entrance to its parks on January 16th. (Other days in 2023 include April 22, August 4, September 23, and November 11.)
Semi-Annual Sales and More
Victoria’s Secret Semi-Annual Sale started Dec 26 will continue through Jan 18.
The Semi-Annual Sale by Bath & Body Works also started Dec 26 and will continue into mid-January.
The Ulta Jumbo Love Event goes on from Dec 25-Jan 21.
Target Semi-Annual Toy Clearance will progress throughout January. Look for deeper discounts each week.
Seasonal Produce
Eat seasonal produce because they are more fresh, tasty, and usually at a good price given their availability.
Fruits: Clementines, Cranberries, Grapefruit, Pears, Pineapples, and Pomegranates.
Vegetables: Beets, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Celery, Kale, Leeks, Onions, and Parsnips.
