What to Buy (and Skip) in February 2026
Folks are feeling the love in February, but savvy spouses get gifts after Feb. 14. TVs and winter apparel are also on sale this month.
Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click to take an action on their website. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money.
Valentine’s Day is coming up, which means you may soon be spending extra money on gifts like cards, candy or flowers.
Know what goes on sale when to save money on gifts and all your other purchases in February.
Here’s a guide for what to buy (and skip) this month.
Buy: TVs
February is Super Bowl month, which means shoppers are searching for discounts on big TVs and retailers will meet demand with deals.
The beginning of the year is traditionally one of the best times to purchase a new home entertainment item. We regularly see sales on an assortment of TVs at retailers like Target, Best Buy and Amazon.
But you’ll want to shop soon — Super Bowl Sunday is Feb. 8.
More stories like this? Yes, please!
Find exclusive content, rich storytelling, first-person accounts, trending news and original reporting in the NerdWallet app.Skip: Flowers
Flowers are a Valentine’s Day staple, but if you’re not careful, they’ll overwhelm your budget. If you can, opt for a more affordable gift, such as a framed picture or gift basket.
If you insist on sending flowers to your love, plan ahead. Some online flower shops offer free standard shipping on select arrangements. Delivery can get more expensive when you order closer to the holiday.
Buy: Valentine’s Day clearance
Stock up on sweets Feb. 15 to save money. The heart-shaped candy will be just as sweet, but for cheap the day after the holiday. In the past, we’ve seen Valentine’s Day clearance events at Target and Walmart. Check drugstore chains, too.
Skip: Most electronics
Avoid purchasing consumer electronics this month (except TVs). Items like laptops, desktops, tablets and video game consoles are best bought in November, during Black Friday sales.
If you can’t wait until then, there will be other opportunities throughout the year. For example, select retailers hold “Black Friday in July” events before back-to-school season. Amazon’s Prime Day sale is almost always in July, too, and other retailers hold competing sales around the same time.
Buy: Winter products
From clothing to cold-weather sporting goods, now’s the time to stock up on winter-related items.
Winter products are on their way out the door because many retailers have already released spring arrivals, which typically hit shelves at full price.
You’ll still have time to use the items this year, and you’ll get them at a discount. Shop sooner versus later, because when the gloves come off (the shelves), they’re gone.
Shop: Presidents Day sales for mattresses and home goods
Valentine’s Day isn't the only holiday in February. Presidents Day falls on Feb. 16, and if this year is like previous ones, expect retailers to host holiday weekend sales. They’ll likely focus on home goods, such as bedding, furniture, mattresses and small kitchen appliances.
Historically, we’ve seen deals across an assortment of retailers, including Best Buy, Lowe’s, Mattress Firm, Serta and more. So what should you expect? In the past, mattress brand Saatva offered savings of up to $500 off Presidents Day purchases and Lowe’s discounted select appliances by up to 35%.
Bonus: National Frozen Yogurt Day
Finally, sweeten up an already sweet month with National Frozen Yogurt Day on Feb. 6.
Look for free or discounted yogurt at a business near you. In past years, we’ve seen buy-one-get-one deals on the frozen treat. Be sure to check social media for leads on the best froyo promos.
More stories like this? Yes, please!
Find exclusive content, rich storytelling, first-person accounts, trending news and original reporting in the NerdWallet app.Article sources
NerdWallet writers are subject matter authorities who use primary,
trustworthy sources to inform their work, including peer-reviewed
studies, government websites, academic research and interviews with
industry experts. All content is fact-checked for accuracy, timeliness
and relevance. You can learn more about NerdWallet's high
standards for journalism by reading our
editorial guidelines.
- 1. SSA.gov. 2026 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) Fact Sheet. Accessed Oct 24, 2025.
Related articles