After-Christmas clearance sales can be a great way to stock up for next year, or they can be just another lure to get you to the store and spend money on things that you don’t really need. So how can you make sure to shop responsibly after Christmas? Here are some tips to getting the most of the end-of-year sales:
Look for versatile items:
Look for items that you can use throughout the year, and not just at Christmastime. Look for solid colors. Some versatile items that you might find are: white tissue paper, serving dishes, or gift wrap.
If you have been waiting until they were on clearance to get some Christmas dishes, consider buying something that can also be used for other holidays or events. Perhaps you could buy some beautiful “Christmas” plates that are really just white with a bit of silver or gold on them. When you set your table next year, just add a holiday accent like a napkin with a snowflake napkin ring or even a candy cane. Use these same plates during a different time of year–just dress them up differently.
Think creatively:
Even Christmas tree ornaments can be used in a different way. Perhaps you might find some cute furniture or figurines that your daughter can play with in her dollhouse. There are also items that are only festive because of the container they are in. Look for clearance on holiday facial tissue, Scotch tape, or Christmas-wrapped candy.
Don’t buy too many extra items:
Make sure to not buy things just on impulse. Only buy things that you are certain you will use. It is best to buy things that you probably would end up buying next season anyway. This way you are really saving money, instead of just buying extra stuff to clutter up your home.
Mainly, just maintain some control of yourself and make sure you still utilize your critical thinking to get the most out of holiday clearance.
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Clearance: It’s That Time of Year!