Target Clearance - Valentine's Day

I have to admit, I've been known to enjoy a good Target clearance....who doesn't? When I see those little red tags, my heart starts racing!

I'll be heading over to Target on Wednesday to see what leftover treats are there for me. I usually buy valentines for the upcoming year (for my kids to trade at preschool) and maybe some stickers or other "crafty" type items to make scrapbook pages or cards (think outside the box...can those cheap boxed cards be cut apart to make something cute...usually, YES!) One year I bought chocolate to store away and it didn't even make it to Easter...My thighs and I learned a valuable lesson about stockpiling chocolate ;-)

Here's an after-holiday shopping tip for you - Target usually follows a set schedule for clearing out their post-holiday items (the exception is Christmas). Here are the general guidelines:

• 50% off - marked down on the day after the holiday, usually for 3 days
• 75% off - marked down on the 4th day after the holiday, usually for 3 days
• 90% off - marked down on the 7th day after the holiday, usually for 1-3 days

I usually call my store when they open to verify the holiday markdowns...the operator at the store is happy to tell you the % off for that day, but she/he CANNOT tell you what it will be marked tomorrow. Just go to http://www.target.com/ and click on store locator...find your favorite one and write their number in your planner - then it's always there when you need it.

Here's another tip - you CAN use a coupon with those holiday clearance items - for example, Glade holiday candles, themed paper towels, Ziploc baggies with snowflakes, etc. Just remember to use the price scanner to make sure they consider the treasure you're holding "holiday" merchandise and therefore, marked down. Also, remember to look at the end caps near those household items..often, holiday items are found there, too.

Have fun "Targeting"...