What to buy and not buy in April

April isn’t one of the best months of the year to look for deals, but, as always, compare prices to see where and how much you can save.

Check out this list of the best things to buy in April from DealNews.com and also several items you should hold off on until later.

Cookware

With graduation and the wedding season coming up, expect retailers to offer a decent number of deals.

Athletic shoes

With renewed interest in getting outdoors and exercising more as the weather warms up and new items being released, April is a good time to look for athletic shoes.

Air conditioners

If you need a window or portable air conditioner, you may be able to find a deal.

Spring apparel

Look for general sales because spring apparel is just beginning to be put on sale.

Gardening gear

Look for bargains on seeds, mulch, tools, power tools, and more.

Home improvement supplies

As interest in do-it-yourself projects increases with spring weather, stores and online sellers will be offering sales on items such as ladders, bathroom fixtures, spackle, and more.

Easter clearance items

On April 10, you’ll find dozens of Easter items on sale. If you wait a few days, you can probably find discounts up to 70 percent off or more. But, don’t wait too long because the best items will likely be gone.

Secondhand bargains

More people will be having yard sales or donating items to thrift stores and consignment shops as part of their spring cleaning. Check out these possibilities before shopping for brand-new, more expensive items.

Early Mother’s Day gifts

Mother’s Day is May 14 but plenty of sales will start in April. Shop early to reduce stress about finding the right gift.

Rain gear

The month of April showers is a good time to check for sales on rain coats and jackets and water-resistant windbreakers.

Sustainable products

Because Arbor Day and Earth Day are in April, companies will probably offer eco-friendly free items and highlight eco-friendly products for sale.

Other items to consider buying in April are eggs, ham, baking supplies, vacuums, beauty and skin care products, Earth Day sale items, car maintenance items, last-minute travel, and jewelry.

What to skip in April

Mattresses. They tend to go on sale around big holidays such as Memorial Day, July Fourth, and Labor Day.

Major appliances. This is another category that tends to see big discounts around the big holidays.

Summer essentials. Summer essentials such as pool items, patio furniture, and outdoor games are just going to be hitting shelves this month, so expect them to be at full price. If you’re looking for discounts, you’re better off waiting for summer to start winding down.

Summer clothing. Summer clothing such as swimwear is just hitting the shelves, so there won't be any real discounts on these items until July Fourth sales at the earliest.

TV and electronics. Black Friday is still usually the best time to shop electronics, but July Fourth and back to school sales could have offers worth checking out.

Grills. These will be in high demand for the next few months, and while some deals will pop up, overall it’ll be better to buy in September or later when the demand is lower.

Small kitchen appliances. While there may be bargains on small kitchen appliances around big shopping holidays such as Memorial Day and the July Fourth, the deals around Black Friday seem to be better overall.

Happy April and Easter, Earth Day, and Arbor Day. Best wishes with your comparison shopping to find great bargains.

Comments

[Tom at Sightings]

Oh darn. We're looking to get a new mattress. I guess we can wait till Memorial Day.

[Rita]

Hi Tom,

Start comparing prices, visiting stores, and testing mattresses. Buying a mattress is complex and the decision usually lasts a lone time. By Memorial Day, you'll be ready. And, as always, check to see what Consumer Reports has to say. See https://www.consumerreports.org/mattresses/best-mattresses-of-the-year-a1093119971/.

[Carol Cassara]

So helpful! I tweeted.

[Rita]

Hi Carol, I'm glad you found the tips valuable.

[Jennifer]

I started seeing spring clothes, and I'm still seeing winter clothes on sale in stores and online.

[Rita]

I've been trying to find a new winter coat on sale and every time I check Macy's, the number of coats is shrinking and shrinking. I want a red one and couldn't find one online. You've encouraged me to look again.

[Rebecca Forstadt Olkowski]

I'm ready for some spring clothes. All good to know.

[Rita]

I found some Charter pants on sale at Macy's. They fit me pretty well. When I look at the Macy's Last Chance racks, the prices are good, but the sizing varies to much it takes a long time to find something that fits.

[Diane]

I really appreciate your 'buying guides'!

[Rita]

Thanks, Diane. It's good to think about the possible upcoming sales and it gets people into comparing prices. When you think ahead about your purchases, it's helpful to avoid impulse buying.