Labor Day weekend isn’t just the unofficial end of summer; it’s also one of the most strategic times of the year to shop. Retailers clear out inventory to make room for fall and holiday merchandise, and that means steep discounts on some of the priciest items. If you’ve been holding off on a major purchase, this is the moment to pounce. Here’s what tends to drop the most in price during Labor Day sales.

Mattresses

Labor Day has practically become synonymous with mattress sales. Big chains and online retailers slash prices to compete for shoppers, often with bundled deals like free pillows or sheets. If you need a new bed, this weekend delivers some of the deepest discounts of the year.

Pro Tip: Don’t just check big-box stores; online brands like Casper, Purple, and Nectar often run limited-time deals that rival traditional retailers.

Major Appliances

Refrigerators, dishwashers, washers, and dryers all get marked down heavily. Brands want to move older models before new lines debut in the fall. Shoppers can expect anywhere from 20% to 40% off, plus package deals if you buy multiple appliances together.

Pro Tip: Look for floor models or slightly dented units; many stores stack Labor Day discounts on top of clearance pricing.

Outdoor Furniture

As summer winds down, retailers are eager to clear space for fall décor. Patio sets, lounge chairs, fire pits, and even grills are usually steeply discounted. It’s the perfect time to snag high-quality outdoor furniture at end-of-season prices.

Pro Tip: Shop on the last day of the sale; stores are most eager to move oversized items that take up valuable space.

Grills

If you didn’t upgrade your grill earlier in the summer, Labor Day is your chance. From gas to charcoal and even fancy pellet grills, retailers cut prices to move stock before grilling season ends.

Pro Tip: Compare prices online before heading to the store. Some retailers will price match, and you can save even more by stacking coupons or rebate offers.

Electronics

While Black Friday is king for tech deals, Labor Day still brings surprising savings on TVs, laptops, and headphones. Back-to-school sales overlap with Labor Day promotions, making this a smart time to buy.

Pro Tip: Check for bundled offers, like a laptop with free software or accessories, rather than just chasing the lowest price tag.

Cars

September is when dealers want to clear out the current year’s models to make room for next year’s inventory. Labor Day weekend is famous for car sales, with rebates, financing offers, and trade-in bonuses that can add up to thousands in savings.

Pro Tip: Visit the dealership late in the day or on the last day of the promotion; sales teams are more motivated to meet quotas and strike a deal.

Home Improvement Supplies

Big box stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s run Labor Day specials on everything from power tools to flooring. If you’re planning a renovation or just need to replace a worn-out tool, you’ll find prices far lower than usual.

Pro Tip: Sign up for store emails before the holiday. Many chains send exclusive Labor Day promo codes to subscribers.

Mattresses-in-a-Box & Bedroom Sets

Beyond traditional mattresses, online mattress-in-a-box brands and furniture retailers also cut prices on full bedroom sets. Bed frames, nightstands, and dressers often get bundled for less than you’d pay piecemeal later in the year.

Pro Tip: Compare shipping policies; some companies offer free white-glove delivery and setup during holiday promotions.

Travel Packages

Labor Day marks the start of shoulder season, when airfares and hotel rates drop after peak summer. Many travel companies promote flash sales for fall and winter getaways. If you’re flexible, you can score surprisingly cheap packages.

Pro Tip: Use flight search engines with flexible date settings; moving your departure by a day or two can save hundreds.

Lawn & Garden Equipment

Mowers, trimmers, and other yard equipment usually see big markdowns at the tail end of summer. Retailers are motivated to offload bulky items before winter stock takes over.

Pro Tip: Buy off-season items like snow blowers at the same time; you may find surprise markdowns bundled into Labor Day clearance.

The Takeaway 

Labor Day weekend is a golden opportunity for deal hunters. From cars and appliances to mattresses and travel packages, the savings can be significant. If you know what to look for and act quickly, you’ll get big-ticket items at some of the lowest prices all year, setting yourself up for comfort and savings long after the long weekend is over.

Max your Costco card: Membership perks you’re overlooking

READ: Max your Costco card: Membership perks you’re overlooking

If you’ve got a Costco card burning a hole in your wallet, you already know there’s a certain thrill to pushing that oversized cart past sky-high pallets of toilet paper and surprisingly stylish patio sets. But if you’re only popping in for a rotisserie chicken and a case of LaCroix, you’re not even scratching the surface of what your Costco membership can do for you.