Save lots of money by shopping for these holiday and household items at day after Christmas sales. Be sure to sign up to receive the expanded free printable checklist that you can take with you while you go shopping.
I often skip Black Friday shopping, but there’s not much that can keep me out of the stores for their day after Christmas sales.
I skip the return lines and hightail it to the clearance section stock to my cart with items for next Christmas and all year round.
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I’ve compiled a list of 20+ things to buy at day-after-Christmas sale, and I think some of them may surprise you.
Be sure to keep reading for all my Christmas clearance and bargain hunting tips.
I’ve included shopping tips for each each shopping category. You’ll be surprised by how many of your Christmas clearance finds you’ll be able to use throughout the year — not just at the holidays.
Jump to:
- Printable After-Christmas Shopping Deals Checklist
- Best Things to Buy at Christmas Clearance Sales
- 1) Christmas Decorations and Accents
- 2) Christmas Ornaments
- 3) Wrapping Paper
- 4) Tape
- 5) Paper Goods
- 6) Cleaning Supplies
- 7) Kitchen Items and Cookware
- 8) Food Gifts
- 9) Barware and Party Supplies
- 10) Holiday China
- 11) Table Linens
- 12) Candles
- 13) Pillows
- 14) Ribbon
- 15) Garlands & Greenery
- 16) Boxed Gift Sets
- 17) Beauty Items
- 18) School Supplies
- 19) Christmas Cards
- 20) Christmas Trees
Printable After-Christmas Shopping Deals Checklist
By request, I’ve also added a FREE printable checklist that you can take with you when you’re shopping. It includes the 20 original items, plus EVEN MORE things to buy at a discount at day after Christmas sales.
This is a great item to print and keep in your calendar or planner or your Ultimate Christmas Planner. Just enter your information below, then check your inbox for the printable.
Best Things to Buy at Christmas Clearance Sales
As the retail landscape has changed, more and more stores are discounting holiday items BEFORE Christmas, so you can often snag some of these deals before Dec. 25.
You’ll find a better selection when you shop early, but you’ll save the most money if you wait for stores to mark things down 75 percent to 90 percent. Plus, you may be able to use holiday gift cards to pay for items when you shop after Christmas.
Want to see a quick rundown of the list? Click here to watch my web story on the best bargains at after-Christmas clearance sales.
1) Christmas Decorations and Accents
I rarely pay full price for Christmas decor because I shop the after-Christmas sales when decorations are usually on clearance, or discounted 50 percent or more the longer you wait. Some stores even discount their Christmas decor before the holiday, so be on the lookout for great deals while you’re doing your last-minute gift shopping.
2) Christmas Ornaments
I love to pick up ornaments after Christmas, but I don’t just buy for my tree.
I also like to buy ornaments to use as package toppers or to use on the backs of chairs. I pack the ornaments up with my Christmas giftwrap and store them in the attic until next year.
3) Wrapping Paper
I’m sure you know that after-Christmas is the best time to buy wrapping paper, bags, decorative boxes and other gift wrap supplies.
I like to stock up on premium paper. My favorites are the foil, flocked and glittery papers, which can be quite expensive when purchased full price.
I’ll be buying wrapping paper for next year’s Christmas on the 26th, but I’ll also be shopping for gift wrap to use year round. If you hunt, you can find patterns that aren’t holiday specific that you can use for birthdays and other occasions year round.
You may even find some wrapping paper you can use in your home decor, like this faux bois kraft paper I picked up at Target after Christmas. I used it as a runner on an autumn tablescape and as a background for some of my blog photography. The paper I purchased is no longer available, but this is a pretty alternative.
4) Tape
While you’re shopping for wrapping paper, don’t forget to scoop up discounted tape. You’ll have to get to the store early to take advantage of this deal, however, because the hardcore bargain hunters often buy it all up first thing.
5) Paper Goods
Here’s something you may not think to look for at day after Christmas sales. Depending on the store, you can often find paper goods, including paper towels, napkins, plates, facial tissue, foil, plastic wrap, baggies and plastic food storage marked half off if it’s in holiday packaging.
6) Cleaning Supplies
The same also applies to things like dishwashing liquid and hand soap. Look for the Christmas packaging, and you may get a heck of a deal!
7) Kitchen Items and Cookware
Keep your eyes peeled for red and green cookie sheets and bakeware in holiday packaging.
Stores want to clear these seasonal items out after the holidays, so they will discount them deeply. Some items you can use year-round. And others you can save for holiday gifts and baking.
My rubber scrapers and spatulas have Santa Claus and reindeer on them, but I don’t mind. They were a steal at Williams-Sonoma’s after-Christmas sale! World Market has some adorable Christmas-themed spatulas that are likely to be clearance-priced after Christmas.
I’ve also bought whisks, cookie cooling racks, corkscrews and cheese boards at a holiday discount.
You can also find great post-holiday deals on baking boxes, cupcake liners and other supplies for homemade food gifts. If you’re the kind to make and give baked goods to your friends and neighbors, now is the time to stock up on pretty packaging for them.
8) Food Gifts
Speaking of food gifts, you’ll find prepackaged food gifts discounted after Christmas, too. I tend to go for items in non-seasonal packaging. Then, I can use them for hostess gifts, teachers gifts and care packages throughout the year.
Soup mixes, barbecue sauces, nuts, coffee flavorings, popcorn gift sets and hot chocolate mixes are great items to pick up on sale. Just be mindful of expiration dates.
When giving these items as gifts, don’t feel like you have to keep them in their original packaging. You can break up a set and combine it with other items to make a unique gift. No one will ever guess you bought it at Christmas.
I’ve also been known to buy items for my own pantry at these sales. If you’re planning a New Year’s Eve party, then a look for summer sausages, cheese sets, nuts and dip mixes you can serve as appetizers.
9) Barware and Party Supplies
Speaking of New Year’s Eve, be on the lookout for discounted barware and party supplies.
Stores often sell glitzy Christmas glassware and cocktail shakers that aren’t really holiday specific.
I bought this metal ice bucket (kid not included) at Target’s half-price, day after Christmas sale years ago and added family crest vinyl decal to it. We still use this ice bucket when we throw parties.
10) Holiday China
I never could bring myself to pay full price for Christmas dishes, but priced 50 percent to 90 percent off, that’s another story.
A few years ago, I bought a 12-piece place setting of Christmas china at Kohl’s that I bring out every year when we host family for Christmas.
11) Table Linens
Don’t forget the napkins and tablecloths and runners and placemats to go along with those pretty Christmas dishes.
I find great prices on table linens after the holidays, and usually the selection is pretty good, too.
I like to buy solids and patterns that aren’t holiday specific, so I can use them year round in my entertaining and in my food photography for the blog.
12) Candles
Who doesn’t love holiday candles? But who wants to pay full price for them?
If you wait until after Christmas, you can get a great deal on candles, and you may even find some you can use year round.
Snip off the pine cones and needles, and these birch bark candles from Kohl’s are good from fall through spring.
13) Pillows
I love to change out the pillows inside and out for Christmas, but who wants to pay full-price for them?
Make sure you check stores for deals on holiday pillows after Christmas. Places like At Home and Home Goods usually have a lot!
14) Ribbon
I have a weakness for beautiful ribbon to use for decorating and for packages, but it can be so expensive.
That’s why I buy mine on sale after Christmas.
Then, I can afford an entire roll to do projects like my staircase garland — without breaking the bank.
15) Garlands & Greenery
Speaking of garlands, faux greenery is another great thing to buy at day after Christmas sales.
Especially if you use a lot of it like I do. Most of mine was purchased at after-Christmas sales or using coupons. I like to invest in good quality faux florals and greenery, but I don’t like to pay full price for them.
16) Boxed Gift Sets
I don’t know about you, but I have lots of presents to buy and give throughout the year.
I love to pick up a few prepackaged gifts, like USB chargers, classic games, multipurpose tools, book lights and electronic gadgets, to have on hand for birthdays, graduation gifts and just because.
17) Beauty Items
You know what also comes packaged neatly with a box for Christmas? Beauty items, including makeup, nail polish, perfume and skincare.
A 50 percent off sale (or more!) is the perfect excuse to try a new scent or indulge in a new nail color wardrobe! I’m a big fan of the Burt’s Bees gift sets; I scored some great deals a few years ago on some of those at Walmart.
18) School Supplies
As strange as it sounds, you can often find school supplies on clearance after Christmas. Just look for holiday packaging, then check the prices at the store’s bar code scanners. You may be pleasantly surprised.
I scored a major deal on some Santa Claus and Frosty Post-It notes and Sharpie markers one year after Christmas, and I was able to donate a lot of them to my son’s school.
19) Christmas Cards
I know many people send out photo Christmas cards. But if you don’t, get a jumpstart by buying your cards for this year on Dec. 26.
You’ll pay half what you will next year — and if you’re really organized, you could address them now when you’re not busy with the holiday rush. (Who am I kidding?)
20) Christmas Trees
If you use an artificial Christmas tree like we do, then the best time to buy it is after Christmas.
I wish we bought our living room tree after Christmas, but we found ourselves in tree bind last year and ended up purchasing ours before the holiday.
We bought it on sale, but had we waited until Dec. 26, the price would have dropped significantly. (Sometimes, you’ll find discounts on pre-lit trees before Christmas, as well.)
At least I can say I bought my feather tinsel tree on sale. (Check local boutiques and florists for high-quality trees like this one at a discount.)
The same goes outdoor trees and decor.
Shop the sales for deals on these items, and stock up on holiday lights so you’re not paying full-price when yours burn out.
I’m curious. Do you hit the day after Christmas sales?
What’s your favorite thing to buy? Did I miss anything on my list?
Pin This! 20+ Things to Buy After Christmas On Sale
And don’t forget to sign up below to receive the FREE printable expanded shopping list by email.
Elizabeth
I was just wondering if this list is able to be printed out yet.
Elizabeth
I wish I could print this list. 🙁
Atta Girl Amy
That’s a great idea! I’ll make a printable and update the post. I’ll be sure to let you know when it’s updated.
Thanks for the great suggestion.
Elizabeth
oh wow thank you so much :), this list is one I have been looking all of over the web for to put it im my mom management binder. I cant wait to print it out. I just started my binder, but I am trying to add everything that I think will help me be a better mom and wife, and this will help because I will be able to save so much money. If you know of other types of printable please share them with me, Thank you so much Liz.
Sonnet @ SohoSonnet
Great Article, I love the idea of getting everything on sale and using it for next year! I mentioned your article in my blog today ” Best After Christmas Sales 2013″ http://www.sohosonnet.com/kids/best-after-christmas-sales-2013/ Hope you had a great Christmas!!
Atta Girl Amy
Thanks so much for sharing my post in yours. I hope you found some great bargains yesterday!
Michaele Sommerville
I stock up on napkins, cups, plates and other holiday serving pieces for Secret Santa gifts, my classroom party and our staff brunch!
Don’t forget the solid colored Christmas bulbs that can be crafted the following year by students and families!
I’m thrilled: this year my daughter has asked to come with me to shop the after-Christmas sales… a new tradition!
Atta Girl Amy
I bet you and your daughter had a blast shopping the sales. I stocked up on lots of bargains!
Thanks for your suggestions, as well. How could I have forgotten Christmas crafting supplies?
I love hearing what everyone else shops for at the after-Christmas sales.
The Funster
Amy
This was so cool! You gave me a lot of great ideas for shopping on the 26th and stock up for next year. This will put me WAY ahead of the game!
Thanks for the great post!
Atta Girl Amy
Glad you found the post helpful. Thanks for stopping by. I hope your shopping was fruitful!
Shirley@Housepitality Designs
I love after Christmas sales!…Merry Christmas Amy to you and your family!!
Atta Girl Amy
Hi Shirley. I hope you found lots of gorgeous deals after Christmas. Now, can I come shop your house after Christmas? Your holiday displays rival any stores!
Melissa@TheHappierHomemaker
Great post Amy! Do you go first thing in the morning on the 26th?
Atta Girl Amy
Melissa, sorry for being slow to reply. I do try to go out early in the morning on the 26th because I usually have a babysitter in the form of my husband or other family members! This year, I didn’t make it to my first store until 9:30, which is downright late in terms of after-Christmas sales. But I still scored some deals, especially on some Smith & Hawken items at Target and some linens there. I always look on the endcaps and non-clearance aisles while the crowds are gathered in the Christmas area at the back of the store. Shh… don’t tell anyone I shared this little secret!
Debbie
Great ideas! I really want a flocked tree and it’s on my after Christmas list 🙂
Atta Girl Amy
So, did you have any luck finding a flocked tree? I think they’re beautiful, but since I got a new tree last year, I may have to wait on that. After seeing Doreen’s beautiful flocked tree, one is definitely high on my list!
Sarah Sanders
I buy Hershey’s kisses, and other Christmas chocolate after Christmas and then use the red and silver ones for Valentine’s gifts and the green ones for Saint Patrick’s Day. I’m a teacher and always need little gifts to give students and faculty. I also buy little gifts to give my next year’s class for Christmas (Snow globes, candy cane pens, etc.)
Atta Girl Amy
What a great idea, Sarah. I bet your students and colleagues love you!
I may go back out and buy some candy and things like that to donate to my son’s classroom because every year they do a unit on simple gifts and make handmade gifts for friends and family. They always need supplies, and now is the perfect time to find them.
Lisa at Texas Decor
I really enjoyed reading this list! You’ve thought of so many things, thanks! 🙂 I never would have thought to check the makeup aisle…I must do that this year after Christmas. 🙂
Atta Girl Amy
Walmart, in particular, usually discounts the holiday makeup gift sets. I’ve scored some great deals on beauty items for gifts (and for myself!) Hope you find some bargains.
Leslie
Great list and I will be looking for a lot of that after Christmas. It seems, tho, that many of the merchants I shop at already have their stuff discounted 70%.
Atta Girl Amy
Leslie, I’ve noticed, too, that many of the stores had already discounted their holiday merchandise before Christmas. I hope that means even bigger bargains for us in the coming days. I used to be a business reporter for a newspaper, and I always had to write about holiday shopping. Given that experience, it seems to me that the 2013 Christmas season must not have been a good one for retailers because they were doing a lot of last-minute sales and promotions to get people into their stores. Good news for bargain shoppers.
Shauna {The Best Blog Recipes}
What great ideas! I really should go shopping this year and pick some of this stuff up for cheap! Pinned 🙂
Shauna @ The Best Blog Recipes
Atta Girl Amy
Thanks for pinning and sharing. I hope you found some bargains. If not, they’re still out there, and the prices only get better the longer you wait. Now, the challenge is finding a place to store all those purchases!
Megan
This is a great shopping list! Thanks for sharing. I never would’ve thought of some of these! I love taking advantage of the holiday soaps and cleaners. I love after holiday shopping!
Atta Girl Amy
Megan, so glad you found the list useful. I picked up some holiday soaps, as well, this year.
Pam
We buy children’s winter coats and hats, gloves or mittens. The prices are better a bit later in winter. We donate them to those who need them. My friend coordinates a huge Angel tree donation and we send them to her. My husband and I love doing this. We never buy anything we wouldn’t have wanted (our now grown) children to wear. Always check every zipper and closure. They need to be easy enough for unsupervised children to manipulate. Also we tend to buy for older boys and teens. We’ve discovered that people tend to buy more for cute little girls and the boys are underserved.
We also go for most of the other things on your list!
Atta Girl Amy
Pam, what a wonderful thing to do. You have inspired me to add coats and gifts to my shopping list, as well. We are so fortunate and blessed, and it breaks my heart to know that so many children locally have to do without life’s necessities. We support a local charity called Out of the Garden Project, which sends food home every week with local schoolchildren. But there are so many things children need, like coats and socks and shoes. And I think you are so right — girls as easy to buy for, but boys are often forgotten. I’m lucky to have a 7-year-old-son, so I know exactly what little boys like to wear and play with and do. We’ll be stocking up on Ninjago and Angry Birds coats and underwear and such for little boys in our community!
Ashley @ 3littlegreenwoods
Oh. My. Goodness.
I cannot wait to go shopping after Christmas. I’ve been using my phone to take pictures of items I want to search for. Crossing my fingers they are still there! Now… what to do with my three little people while I shop?!
Merry Christmas!
Atta Girl Amy
So, how did you do? Did you find some bargains? Get everything on your wishlist?
Ashley @ 3littlegreenwoods
I got the red houses! Plus a whole lot of other things I didn’t need. 😉 It was such an adventure I did a post about it.
Happy New Year!
Ashley
Atta Girl Amy
I tried to get the little houses, but they weren’t on sale at my Target for some reason. Drat it. But I did pick up a whole lot of things I didn’t need, and the bags are still in my living room. On my to-do list for today. I’ll heading over to read your post. Glad you had a fun shopping trip!
Cheryl @ The Creative Me and My McG
Great list! I do shop Boxing Day sales – it’s a tradition I started with my daughter several years ago – she shops the clothing sales – I shop for home goods – like bedding – my husband and son like to shop for electronics and dvds on boxing day – wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and great Boxing Day finds!!
Atta Girl Amy
How fun that Boxing Day shopping is a family tradition. I hope you and yours found lots of great bargains yesterday.
laura
Amy this is such a good comprehensive list. I love to find the bargains but search for the deep discounts since alot was 50% off before christmas. Merry christmas sweet friend and happy shopping.
Atta Girl Amy
Hope you and your family had a wonderful Christmas. I can’t wait to see what beautiful bargains you find in these coming days and weeks.