Consumer Expert From New Rochelle Provides Labor Day Shopping Tips

Here's what to buy and what to avoid.

Buy: Mattresses. Holiday sales are always a good time to buy big-ticket items like mattresses and furniture. 

Skip: Automobiles. Since Labor Day falls at the beginning of the month, car dealerships are less likely to offer a big discount despite what their banners tell you. A better time to shop for a vehicle is at the end of the month when sales associates are more motivated to negotiate.

Buy: Summer Clothes. It's hard to plan ahead to next summer when you're focused on back-to-school, but now is the time to stock up on warm-weather essentials. 

Skip: Back-to-School Apparel. The best time to buy sweaters, jeans, outerwear and boots is in October. Wait for Columbus Day sales to scoop up the biggest savings.

Buy: Luxury Goods. If there's a luxury-brand watch or handbag you've been drooling over, Labor Day is one of few shopping events during which you may score a lower price. Like other apparel and accessory retailers, luxury brands need to clear out summer inventory to make room for fall must-haves. 

Skip: Halloween/Harvest Decor. Though summer isn't technically over until later this month, retailers are already promoting fall in a big way. While you may see a small discount on these decorations, don't let the temptation of the season entice you. The best time to buy Halloween decor is the last couple of days before the big event.

Buy: Outdoor Entertaining Essentials. The season for backyard parties and barbecues may be coming to a close, but that doesn't mean you can't outfit your outdoor oasis with new entertaining essentials. End-of-season sales will offer savings of 40 to 60 percent on grills, patio furniture, umbrellas and servingware. 

Skip: TVs. On the cusp of football season, retailers are promoting some seemingly good offers. However, the best two times to buy a new TV are during Black Friday weekend and at the end of January in time for Super Bowl. 

Andrea Woroch is a money-saving expert and former New Rochelle resident. 

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