Back-to-school is approaching fast, and for many, it has already started. As parents, we are most likely prepping and preparing our children for their first day of school. This includes purchasing a new back-to-school wardrobe, fresh school supplies, and grocery shopping to prep for the first week of lunches. The pricier item on our to-do lists is almost always a back-to-school wardrobe. Well, I've got some killer tips for finding the best back-to-school clothing bargains.
Where (and When) to Find the Best Back-to-School Clothing Bargains
1. Close Out and Big Box Stores
TJ Maxx, Marshall’s, and Ross are great places to find deals on name-brand children’s apparel. They offer the same brands as department stores for 20-50% off. Don’t overlook warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam’s Club. Both offer a limited selection of name-brand clothing at great prices.2. Sale Items at Department Stores
Kohl’s is another retailer to check out, but never pay full price there. Shop during sales and when they issue Kohl’s Cash (earn a $10 voucher to spend later for every $50 spent). Kohl’s cardholders also earn discounts such as an extra 15% - 30% on merchandise at certain times during the year.3. Stores that Replace Worn Out Clothing
The Sears KidVantage program is a noteworthy way to purchase clothing. Sears will replace clothing that has worn out with the exact same size and brand when you are a member. Just be sure to save your receipt. Not only that, for every $100 spent you’ll receive a 15% off certificate to use on your next purchase.
4. Thrift Stores
Consider gently used clothing. Any types of clothing, such as shoes, shirts, pants, and/or outwear, can be purchased, most of the time, for under $5. Popular and reliable thrift stores include Goodwill, Salvation Army or Savers Thrift Store. On some days, you can even get items for half off, a great bargain! Or, they’ll have a “stuff your bag” sale, which is an even better bargain. If you make it a habit to go at least once or twice a month, you are more likely to find the popular brands your kids will want to wear.
5. Second-Hand Stores
Resale shops like Once Upon a Child and Plato's Closet (geared towards tweens and teens) will even take your quality outgrown clothing for trade. Bring in what your kids have outgrown, and they’ll give you cash on the spot to buy the things you need.6. Online Deals
Another great option for gently used clothing is eBay.com or Craigslist.org. If you need to buy several things, consider looking for groups of clothing called “lots.” You’ll avoid having to pay multiple shipping charges by buying all you need in one auction and/or shipment, plus you’ll pay less per piece overall. Carefully inspect photos of the items being sold, consider the seller’s feedback rating, and take shipping costs into consideration. You can also use the search feature to examine brand, size, or even a description. You can even search “hidden” auctions on brand names your kids love – meaning misspellings can help you claim a lower price.Make sure to visit sites like mine, Mommysavers.com, to give you the heads-up on what’s on sale at popular retailers like Children’s Place, Old Navy, Target, and others.
