What to Buy (and Skip) in December 2021 | Personal-finance

For most of the past decade, furniture and bedding prices hadn’t changed much and, if anything, trended downward, according to BLS data. But you won’t find those relatively low prices now. Inflation has hit furniture prices like a sofa to the face.

The cost of furniture and bedding increased 12% from October 2020 to October 2021, according to those CPI figures. That category includes bedroom, living room, kitchen, dining room and other furniture.

If you need another reason to pass on bedding and furniture purchases, consider that you’ll likely see these items on sale in a month or two. Traditionally, January is when retailers majorly discount bedroom and bathroom goods. And, in years past, you could find furniture and home goods on sale the weekend leading up to Presidents Day, which will be Feb. 21.

So, if you can, hold off until the new year to spruce up your home. Then start scouting for deals at retailers such as Kohl’s, Macy’s, Overstock and Wayfair.

National Cookie Day is Dec. 4, so keep an eye out for discounts and freebies. Last year, Insomnia Cookies, Subway and Great American Cookies offered free cookies at select locations, while Cheryl’s Cookies and Mrs. Fields gave discounts.