What buy and not buy in May

Bargains pick up in May with Memorial Day sales, which can start earlier in the month than you’d think.

Here are some tips from DealNews on what deals to expect in May and what items you should delay your purchases on.

Star Wars items

May 4 is Star Wars Day, and so you'll have the chance to pick up themed products such as apparel, toys, and collectibles at a discount.

Nontraditional Mother’s Day gifts

Flowers and jewelry, traditional Mother’s Day gifts, begin going up in price on May 1. If you haven’t purchased your mom a gift yet – Mother’s Day is May 11 in 2025 – it’s time to think outside the box to save money. Look for deals on clothing, shoes, bed and bath items, electronics, and more.

Major appliances

If you need a new washer and dryer or an entire kitchen suite, May is a great time to shop for major appliances. Look for some stores to offer deals such as $300 off or up to 30 percent off. If you’d like a particular brand, check with the manufacturer directly.

Mattresses

Mattresses are another item worth shopping for in May, especially during Memorial Day sales. You’ll see deals of 30 percent to 40 percent off or more.

Small appliances

May can be a decent time to find bargains on small kitchen appliances. Check local stores and online, too.

Spring apparel

May is a good time to start shopping for spring clothing as it hits the clearance racks. Retailers will be making way for new summer items, and that means you could score deep discounts on spring items.

Cookware

May brings big celebration occasions, including Mother’s Day and graduation. But it also kicks off the summer wedding season, although summer and early fall are still the most popular times to get married. Cookware is one of those items that makes it onto wedding registries as well as gift lists for new graduates. Start shopping early for bargains after checking out the bridal registries for your friends and relatives and asking new graduates what they may be needing.

Home goods

Although January is one of the best times to purchase home goods such as bedding and bath items, May also is a decent time to find bargains.

Gift cards

Black Friday and through December are the best time to shop for gift cards but you may see a few offering in May. An example is when restaurants offer promotions where guests can buy one gift card and receive a bonus card.

Things not to buy in May

For athletic apparel and lingerie, wait until June. For grills, it’s September or October.

Summer apparel usually goes on sale in August and September.

Happy May shopping. And May the 4th be with you.