What to Buy (and Skip) in May 2023

Courtney Neidel
Tommy Tindall
By Tommy Tindall and  Courtney Neidel 
Updated
Edited by Sheri Gordon

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High prices continue to make for an unpredictable retail experience, but there are deals to be had for the savvy shopper. In the month ahead, you’ll likely stumble on sales for appliances, apparel and even “Star Wars” memorabilia.

To help you shop smart and save money, we created a guide for what you should buy (and a few things you should skip) during the month of May.

May the force be with you.

Buy: Major furniture and appliances

May is a prime time for making major home-related purchases. That’s because Memorial Day sales are packed with markdowns on indoor and outdoor furniture, appliances and mattresses. Expect discounts from the major players like Lowe’s, Best Buy and Overstock. Look for upfront markdowns and deals that require a coupon code at checkout (when shopping online).

This year, Memorial Day is May 29, but sales often begin at least a week earlier and can last into June.

Skip: Home electronics

We suggest making electronics purchases in November, when prices on laptops, tablets, gaming consoles and other electronics are usually at their lowest, thanks to Black Friday sales.

Buy: Small appliances

While you’re outfitting your home with a new sofa, chair or table at Memorial Day sales, check out coffee makers, blenders and other small kitchen appliances.

In the past, department stores such as Macy’s and JCPenney, as well as home and kitchen specialty stores like Williams Sonoma, have offered savings on kitchen essentials.

Count window air conditioners as small appliances on discount too, according to Consumer Reports. May isn’t warm enough in some places for them to fly off the shelf, and you could get a deal for beating the heat. Check Amazon, Costco and Home Depot for good prices in May.

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Skip: Swimwear and lingerie

The sale fliers will flood your mailbox in May, but the month after is the better time to buy. That's because Victoria’s Secret sets the schedule for swimwear and lingerie deals, and the store’s Semi-Annual Sale traditionally happens each June. Other retailers follow suit.

In past installments, Victoria’s Secret has dished out discounts of up to 60% off almost 2,000 styles. If this year follows the same pattern, hold out a little while longer for similar savings.

Follow the retailer on social media and sign up for the store’s mailing list for sale announcements.

Buy: Spring apparel

Clothing sales are a given each May. Now that warm-weather styles have been in stores for a few months, you can expect retailers to bring down prices.

Our best advice for finding these deals? First, check retailers’ sale sections or clearance racks both in store and online. Then, register for your favorite clothing store’s email list, which could mean exclusive deals. Finally, fill your cart with sale-priced shirts and shorts while you’re getting that KitchenAid mixer and coffee table on Memorial Day.

Bonus: ‘Star Wars’ Day

May 4 is “Star Wars” Day, and yes, it’s cause for pop culture consumerism. You’ll see sales on merchandise featuring your favorite characters, such as Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia.

We’ve previously spotted price cuts on apparel and even jewelry inspired by the movies. If prior years are any indication, expect savings at places like Amazon, GameStop and even Build-A-Bear.

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Bonus: Free food days

The best things to buy every month include food too. Keep an eye on social media and mark your calendar for these dates in May, which are likely to bring word of deals and freebies: National Buttermilk Biscuit Day on May 14 and National Hamburger Day on May 28. May your May be tasty, and cheap.