Make Yourself a Sales Calendar

Seasonal buying at sales can save you money.

Throughout the year, certain items routinely go on sale. A thrifty shopper plans ahead, if possible, and buys needed items when they go on sale.

Seasonal sales may vary from one location to an other, and they may be influenced by supply and demand, but in general the following list of items will give you some idea of good buys in a given month.

January: January's sale items include Christmas trimmings, cards and paper; appliances; bicycles; china and glassware; carpets and rugs; TV sets, radios and stereos; and white sale items like blankets, sheets, linens and towels.

February: In February, look for sales on Washington's and Lincoln's birthdays and for Mardi Gras sales. Other good buys may include furniture, sportswear, used cars, curtains and drapes.

March: Featured sale items in March are luggage, ski equipment, washing machines and clothes dryers, and spring and Easter specials.

April: Men's and boys' suits are good buys in April. Other sale items may include kitchen ranges, sleep wear, lingerie, home improvement materials and after-Easter clothing specials.

May: In May, look for sales around Mother's Day and Memorial Day. TVs and tires may be on sale also.

June: June will have Father's Day specials and sales on building supplies, fabrics, typewriters and hosiery.

July: Air conditioners, refrigerators and freezers are often good buys in July. Summer clothes, swimwear and Fourth of July sales should be checked out.

August: August buys might include current year cars, camping equipment, summer clothing, furniture, coats and furs, lamps and houseware items. Look for white sales and back-to-school specials, too.

September: Current year cars are a good buy in September, too, as are car batteries and accessories. Fabrics and fall fashions may be on sale also.

October: Columbus Day and Veterans' Day sales are held in October. Fall and winter sportswear and other fall fashions may be good buys in October.

November: In November, look for Thanksgiving Day specials and sales on used cars, women's dresses and coats, men's and boys' suits and shirts, and children's clothes.

December: December's good buys may include women's coats and shoes, men's shoes and end of the month sales on Christmas cards, decorations and wrappings.

For more information and suggestions about reducing your household expenses and managing your budget, contact your local county Extension office.