I’m a Shopping Expert: 3 Top Purchases I Make Every Spring

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The first day of spring arrives on March 19 and many Americans view the start of the new season as a good time to hit refresh and reset again.
What’s worth your money as we head into Q2 of 2024? GOBankingRates spoke to Julie Ramhold, consumer analyst at DealNews.com, to find out which three purchases she always makes in the spring and why it’s worth it to buy these items.
Cleaning Supplies
Now that the holiday season is over and spring is on the horizon, most individuals have spring cleaning on their minds. Whether you need to buy completely new essentials or stock up on existing cleaning supplies, retailers are running sales during the spring season on all-purpose cleaner, disinfecting wipes, paper towels and more.
How much can shoppers stand to save on cleaning products? Ramhold said the answer depends on where you’re shopping and the size of the products themselves.
For example, Ramhold said if you pick up Windex or Scrubbing Bubbles bathroom cleaner from a warehouse club like Costco you’ll be able to save nearly $5 on their bulk packages and enjoy a better unit price than what you’d find elsewhere. Other stores may have lower savings, such as 20 cents off your purchase, but Ramhold added these stores can offer generic options which can be even cheaper than name brands.
If you want to buy cleaning products in bulk, it may be in your best interest to shop at warehouse clubs first. Shoppers who don’t, however, are recommended by Ramhold to watch for sales on cleaning supplies at big-box retailers and grocery stores and consider buying generic products to stock up for less.
Allergy and Sinus Medication
Another must-buy for spring is allergy medication, especially for those who struggle with seasonal allergies. Much like spring cleaning products, retailers are anticipating shoppers needing allergy and sinus supplies and will be running sales accordingly.
Depending on what you need to buy, Ramhold said shoppers can save $8 or more off their purchase of allergy meds and nasal sprays. Other basics, like saline nasal spray, will also be on sale for shoppers that prefer to use unmedicated nasal sprays.
“It’s a good time to restock your necessary items for dealing with allergies,” Ramhold recommended.
Cold Supplies
You might think you don’t need to worry too much about catching a cold in the spring months, but this is a common misconception. According to Kaiser Permanente, colds tend to be fairly common in early spring.
If you’re already out and about shopping for allergy meds, take a moment to stock up on tissues too. Ramhold said retailers and warehouse clubs alike will be running sales on Kleenex packages. She recommends using the sale discount to purchase Kleenex with soothing lotion to keep from irritating your nose any further.