Aliexpress have lots of stuff very cheap, order early as it’s all delivered from China here see sockeatingmonster’s useful tips on this site at the bottom of this post
Camelcamelcamel is a brilliant site that tracks prices on amazon here
Learning resources can have good bits in their sale here
Lisa angel sale is popular when on, apparently arrive nicely packaged too here
Magazine subscription offers here and here
Netpricedirect has discount toys and party bits here
Toys for a pound here
Sockeatingmonster’s top tips for using aliexpress
- Check reviews
- Be wary of plastic toys. There have been concerns about toxic plastics from China, and I have binned plastic figures for having very unpleasant smells. I no longer buy any 'low-end' plastic items (UPDATE: I wouldn’t buy squishiest either, for the same reason) and only ever from sellers with lots of positive reviews
- Aliexpress refund/complaints procedure is actually way more straightforward than eBay, and stacked in the buyer's favour
- Beware of mains operated electricals, many of which are supplied without fused plugs. Always message the seller first if in doubt, don't rely on the photos
- I don't trust dress up clothes to be flame retardant, although I don't believe this is UK law anyway?
- Clothes can come up very small. Quality can be variable (excellent to awful). Photos are often of similar items, so take them with a pinch of salt and check the reviews.
- Actually, all photos on Aliexpress should be taken with a pinch of salt. Again, check reviews (where buyers often post photos of the actual item received)
- I wouldn't trust toys to meet UK safety standards and wouldn't buy anything that could pose a risk (e.g. Paint might not be safe for children to gum, there could be sharp edges/choking hazards, etc)
- Lego alternatives don't tend to stick together as well as genuine Lego. Minifigures are still excellent value, but the odd one might benefit from a few drops of superglue.
10. Barbie and other doll clothes can be excellent value, but check reviews for fabric quality and finish (UPDATE: Type “18 inch doll” for clothes that will fit American Girl/Our Generation/Designafriend dolls. Shoes are particularly excellent value. Wash dark clothing first as dyes can stain dolls’ limbs)
11. Stationery is generally excellent value, although paper quality can be lower than expected. Type 'kawaii' into stationery and be prepared to spend a fortune!