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Black Friday is the most anticipated shopping day of the year, but that doesn’t mean it’s the best time to buy everything. Even at Walmart, not every deal is worth the money, and some items are sometimes better purchased at other times of the year, especially for retirees.

Most seniors and retirees live on a fixed income, which means their Black Friday budget is often limited. Here are five Walmart items retirees should avoid on Black Friday and why they aren’t worth buying.

electronics

Black Friday deals often promote medium or low quality products that may not last very long. According to The Motley Fool, retailers can afford to slash electronics prices by hundreds of dollars because they don’t offer shoppers the same more expensive items that are typically found on shelves.

The site noted that retailers typically have electronic devices made specifically for Black Friday sales, but they may be of lower quality and not worth the money. For example, a TV that normally sells for $1,200 but is on sale for $800 on Black Friday may not be the standard model, but a derivative model made from inferior components that have deteriorated over time more likely to break.

Furniture and mattresses

Because furniture and mattresses are big investments, it’s usually worth waiting until they go on sale. However, that doesn’t mean Black Friday is the best time to buy them.

DealNews noted that these types of purchases favor in-store shopping over online shopping, which can be difficult if you can’t make it to the store or have family obligations.

Luckily, DealNews reported that there are other ways to find furniture and mattresses at a discount, such as on Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day weekends.

Holiday decoration

Now might seem like the best time to stock up on decorations, but holiday-themed items tend to be cheaper in the off-season.

This is because they are in high demand during the holiday season. Instead, store clearances after Christmas and into the New Year.

Gift cards

There are plenty of gift card deals on Black Friday, but DealNews recommends waiting until December for better deals.

The best gift card deals typically occur in December, when retailers offer promotions with extra cash on a minimum purchase. For example, a $50 gift card with a bonus $10 gift card.

DealNews found that threshold purchases ranged from $25 to $100, with bonuses ranging from $5 to $25, depending on the restaurant or retailer.

Winter clothing

Similar to buying holiday decorations, the best time to buy winter clothing is when there isn’t much demand – typically when spring fashions hit the shelves.

DealNews noted that the best clothing deals on Black Friday will likely be fall clothing, and if you’re looking to update your winter wardrobe, the lowest prices are in January and February.

Editor’s Note: Prices are accurate as of November 26, 2024. Prices and availability may vary by location.