Labor Day is fast approaching, but early deals are already up for grabs. Experts identify key categories where the best discounts lie: summer-related items, mattresses, furniture, major appliances, and warm-weather fashion. Keep these in mind as you browse online or visit stores in the coming days. According to a RetailMeNot survey, 73% of shoppers plan to engage in Labor Day shopping.
If you’re eager to start, here’s a list of notable deals from retailers such as Amazon, Target, Old Navy, Brooks, Home Depot, REI, and Ulta. We highlight products that are at least 20% off, highly rated, and tested by NBC Selected. Consider these cost-effective choices:
- Best sneaker deal: $109.95, marked down from $159.95
- Best bedding deal: $104.30, reduced from $149.00
- Best vacuum deal: $179.99, discounted from $299.99
- Best clothing deal: $8.99, down from $14.99
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Top Picks and Expert Insights
The Brooks Ghost Max walking shoes are favored for their comfortable cushioning and smooth transitions, making them versatile options for various activities. Research shows that groceries top the list of planned Labor Day purchases, reflecting economic concerns over rising living costs. Although summer clearance and large appliances are heavily discounted, grocery bargains are available on bulk nonperishables.
A standout offer includes a pack of 30 gluten-free granola bars with three different flavors, useful for lunchboxes or on-the-go snacks.
Spotlight Deals
This 12-ounce stainless steel cup offers convenience with its dishwasher-safe design and compatibility with most car cupholders. Available in select colors at 40% off.
Three-day holiday weekends present excellent opportunities for purchasing bedding. Parachute’s target collection combines luxury and affordability in its organic cotton sheets, ideal for hot sleepers.
Summer clothing sees significant markdowns. Use this time to purchase basics, like Old Navy’s T-shirts, for current wear and fall layering.
Though major appliances typically dominate Labor Day sales, there’s substantial savings on smaller cleaning devices too. Shark’s cordless vacuums, boasting high ratings and advanced features, represent excellent household investments.
Labor Day Sales Timeline
Some early sales have begun, but most major discounts activate between September 1 and September 4. Retailers mark the Friday before Labor Day—this year, September 7—as the start of the long weekend, so expect all offers to be live by September 4. Aim to finalize purchases by Labor Day, as stock can be limited.
Maximizing Savings
Stacking savings is a proven method to maximize discounts. Combine deals with promo codes, cash back offers, and rewards programs. Compare prices across vendors—this is key as competition is fierce, with retailers potentially including extra perks like free shipping or installation.
Consider both online and in-store shopping to evaluate product quality and benefit from additional savings opportunities. Online platforms simplify price comparison, while in-store purchases offer hands-on evaluations.
Additional Expert Advice
Shopping experts emphasize not feeling pressured to buy during sales. There are upcoming sales events like Black Friday and potential Amazon promotions, offering more opportunities for savings.
Expert Contributors
Our findings come from credible sources, including:
- Stephanie Carls, RetailMeNot insights expert
- Vipin Porwal, CEO of Smarty
- Ashley Feinstein Gerstley, Rakuten savings expert
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