Everyone loves a good clearance sale. But most people think those deals only pop up after major holidays. That’s a mistake.
Clearance happens all year—if you know where (and when) to look. Smart shoppers don’t wait for red tags. They find them before everyone else.
Stores run on a retail calendar that’s always thinking a season ahead. That means winter coats start getting marked down in January, patio furniture drops in July, and back-to-school gear gets discounted before school even starts. Retailers make room for new inventory fast. So, if you’re willing to shop just before or right after a season ends, you can snag high-quality items at low prices—often 50 to 75 percent off.
Clearance shopping is best when you’re not in a rush. Create a note in your phone with items you know you’ll need in the future—holiday gifts, winter coats, summer gear. Then shop for those things during the opposite season. Buying off-season is one of the easiest ways to save big. And you won’t feel pressure to overpay last-minute.
Timing and Tactics That Work
Most markdowns happen on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. That’s when store staff roll out updated price tags and prep for weekend shoppers. If you shop midweek, you’ll beat the rush and get first pick of the best clearance finds. In-store or online, many retailers update inventory midweek. Make a habit of browsing your favorite sites on these days—you’ll start noticing the pattern.
Many stores restock departments on a predictable schedule. For example, big box retailers may reset home goods on Mondays, clothing on Wednesdays, and toys on Thursdays. Right before these shifts, they’ll mark down older stock to make room. Ask a store employee what day they update their shelves. They’ll often tell you, and that knowledge can help you time your visits like a pro.
Clearance doesn’t always mean “final price.” Many stores allow you to stack discounts, use digital coupons, or apply loyalty rewards—even on already marked-down items. Sign up for email alerts, download store apps, and keep an eye out for “extra 20% off clearance” events. These pop up regularly, and when they do, the savings multiply.
Where the Deals Are Hiding
Clearance racks aren’t always easy to find. In brick-and-mortar stores, they’re often tucked in back corners, down side aisles, or on lower shelves. That’s intentional. Stores want to sell full-priced items first, so the best deals are hidden in plain sight.
Online, look for “clearance,” “final sale,” or “overstock” sections. Many retailers don’t promote these pages up front—you’ll need to scroll down or use the site search. Several free apps and browser tools will flag price drops, cash back offers, or hidden discounts. Some even track price history so you can see if a deal is actually a deal—or just clever marketing. If you’re serious about year-round clearance shopping, set alerts for specific items you’re watching. That way, you’ll know the moment they go on sale.
Some retailers use color-coded tags or ending price numbers to indicate clearance levels. For example, at some stores, a price ending in .97 might mean final clearance. A yellow sticker might mean it’s going away for good. A quick online search for the store’s pricing code system can reveal insider info most shoppers don’t notice.
Don’t Just Think Clothes
Most people think of clearance racks as a clothing-only zone. But almost every product category cycles through markdowns—tools, kitchenware, electronics, decor, pet supplies, even groceries. If you’re moving, remodeling, or planning a big event, check the clearance section first. You’ll often find quality items that were full price a month ago.
The bottom line? Clearance isn’t just a post-holiday event. It’s a year-round opportunity hiding in plain sight. With a little timing, planning, and persistence, you can make clearance shopping part of your everyday routine.
The best deals aren’t found by chance. They’re found by shoppers who know how to look.
