Table OF Content
Do All Furniture Stores Offer Clearance Sales?
Are There Clearance Sales at Every Furniture Store?
Clearance sales are a major attraction for furniture shoppers looking to save money on quality pieces. But one of the most common questions is: are clearance sales offered at every furniture store? The short answer is — not always. In this section, we’ll explore the reasons why some stores offer clearance events while others don’t.
Most furniture stores operate on a seasonal inventory cycle. Retailers often need to make room for new collections, especially before the spring and fall when new product lines arrive. Clearance sales are one way to clear out older stock to make space for incoming styles. However, not all furniture stores follow this model.
1. Types of Furniture Stores
Clearance sales are more common in certain types of furniture stores:
| Type of Store | Clearance Sales Common? |
|---|---|
| Big Box Stores (e.g., IKEA, Ashley) | Yes |
| Boutique or Designer Stores | Occasionally |
| Second-Hand Stores | Rarely |
| Online Furniture Retailers | Yes |
2. Business Model and Inventory Turnover
Stores with high inventory turnover, such as Ashley Furniture or Wayfair, are more likely to have regular clearance sales. On the other hand, stores that specialize in custom furniture or have limited inventory may not need to discount items frequently.
3. Store Size and Volume
Larger stores usually have more inventory and thus need to rotate stock more often, resulting in more frequent clearance events. Smaller stores might not have enough floor space or excess inventory to justify clearance sales.
4. Store Policy on Returns and Overstock
Some stores manage overstock by shipping items back to the manufacturer instead of discounting them. Others may use third-party liquidation companies. These practices reduce the need for in-store clearance sales.
5. Outlet and Clearance Centers
Many big retailers open dedicated clearance or outlet centers where overstocked or discontinued items are sent. For example, Pottery Barn Outlet or Crate & Barrel Outlet locations are prime places to find deep discounts.
6. Promotions vs. Clearance
Shoppers often confuse general sales or promotions with clearance events. While a “30% off everything” sale may be temporary, a clearance sale typically means an item is being permanently removed from inventory.
7. Online-Only Clearance
Some furniture stores offer online-only clearance sections. These are often updated more frequently than in-store options and include exclusive web deals.
8. Regional Differences
Clearance practices can also vary by region. A large city with high customer traffic may cycle through inventory more quickly, creating more opportunities for clearance sales.
9. Final Verdict
No, not every furniture store offers clearance sales, but many do — especially larger chains and stores with regular inventory updates.
How Can I Find Out If a Furniture Store Has Clearance Sales?
Finding clearance sales at furniture stores can be as simple as checking their website or as strategic as visiting during certain times of the year. This section provides practical tips on how to uncover clearance sales wherever you shop.
1. Visit the Website
Most furniture retailers maintain a clearance or “sale” section on their website. Check regularly for updated offers.
2. Use Google Search
A simple Google search like “clearance furniture near me” or “Ashley Furniture clearance sale” can lead you directly to ongoing sales or outlet centers in your area.
3. Subscribe to Newsletters
Many stores send out email newsletters featuring exclusive clearance announcements and discount codes.
4. Join Loyalty Programs
Loyalty or rewards programs may offer early access to clearance items or special member-only deals.
5. Call or Visit In-Person
Sometimes the best way to learn about clearance events is by asking a sales associate. They may have inside info on upcoming markdowns.
6. Use Apps and Deal Sites
Apps like RetailMeNot or sites like Slickdeals often list clearance events from popular furniture retailers.
7. Follow Social Media Pages
Follow stores on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter. Some retailers post flash clearance deals or behind-the-scenes sales announcements.
8. Check Holiday Schedules
Clearance sales often align with holidays:
| Holiday | Common Clearance Sales |
|---|---|
| President’s Day | Yes |
| Memorial Day | Yes |
| Fourth of July | Yes |
| Labor Day | Yes |
| Black Friday | Yes |
9. Inquire About Floor Models
Many stores sell floor models at a discount during clearance events. These pieces may be slightly worn but come with substantial savings.
10. Shop Seasonally
The best clearance sales happen when seasons change — January and July are prime months for inventory turnover.
When Is the Best Time to Shop Furniture Clearance Sales?
Timing is everything when it comes to scoring the best deals on clearance furniture. Knowing when to shop can help you save hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars.
1. End of Season
Retailers typically clear out inventory at the end of winter and summer. January and July are ideal months to shop.
2. Holiday Weekends
Furniture stores often tie clearance sales to major U.S. holidays:
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Memorial Day
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Labor Day
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President’s Day
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Black Friday
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Fourth of July
3. Fiscal Year-End Sales
Some stores offer major markdowns at the end of their fiscal year, which often falls in March or September.
4. Back-to-School and College Season
Stores targeting college students may offer discounts on compact or modular furniture in August and September.
5. End of Month Deals
Salespeople may have monthly sales goals. Shopping at the end of the month could yield better deals as they try to meet quotas.
6. Clearance on Specific Days
Some stores restock clearance sections weekly. Ask the store what day they mark down items.
7. New Model Releases
Just like cars, new furniture lines are often released in spring and fall. This means older models are cleared out in winter and summer.
8. Store Closures or Relocations
Stores going out of business or relocating often hold liquidation or clearance events with deep discounts.
9. Flash Sales and Online Events
Keep an eye on online flash sales, which may include clearance inventory with limited-time offers.
10. Best Time Summary
| Best Times to Shop | Why It’s Ideal |
|---|---|
| January & July | Season turnover |
| Major Holidays | Store promotions |
| End of Month | Salesperson quotas |
| Store Closings | Liquidation deals |
What Items Are Usually Included in Furniture Clearance Sales?
Not all items are equal when it comes to clearance. Some furniture types and categories are more likely to be discounted than others.
1. Floor Models
These are typically the first to go during clearance events. They may show light wear but are sold at steep discounts.
2. Discontinued Collections
Furniture collections that are being phased out are commonly included in clearance.
3. Overstocked Inventory
Items that are overstocked due to supply chain issues or poor sales may be marked down.
4. Seasonal Furniture
Outdoor furniture, holiday-themed décor, and seasonal items are often cleared after the season ends.
5. Large Items
Big-ticket items like sectionals and entertainment centers that take up valuable floor space are prime clearance candidates.
6. Slightly Damaged Goods
Furniture with minor cosmetic damage may be marked down under clearance or “as-is” tags.
7. Tables and Chairs
Dining sets, accent tables, and single chairs often appear in clearance sections.
8. Mattresses and Bed Frames
Especially in stores specializing in sleep products, discontinued models or last season’s styles may be discounted.
9. Display Cabinets & Shelving
Storage pieces, bookshelves, and curio cabinets are often part of end-of-season clearance.
10. Item Summary Table
| Clearance Items | Reason for Sale |
|---|---|
| Floor Models | Light wear, display item |
| Overstocked Goods | Too much inventory |
| Discontinued Styles | Making room for new lines |
| Seasonal Items | End of season |
Do All Furniture Stores Have Online Clearance Sales?
While many furniture stores offer in-store clearance sales, the question remains: do all furniture stores also have clearance sales available online? In this section, we’ll explore the factors that determine whether a furniture store offers clearance sales on their website and how to navigate them effectively.
1. The Rise of Online Shopping
Online shopping has transformed the retail landscape. As more people opt to shop from home, many furniture stores have expanded their clearance sales to include online inventory.
2. Web-Only Deals
Some stores only offer clearance sales online, allowing customers to take advantage of deals that are exclusive to the digital marketplace. This is especially true for larger online retailers like Wayfair, Overstock, and Amazon.
3. In-Store Pickup Discounts
Even if clearance items are available online, many stores provide an extra discount for items picked up in-store. This allows customers to access clearance prices while saving on shipping fees.
4. Limited Availability of Online Clearance
Not all stores offer an extensive online clearance section. Some smaller or boutique furniture stores may only offer clearance items in their physical locations or on a rotating, limited basis.
5. Sale Duration
Online clearance sales are typically time-limited, meaning they may only last for a few days or until stock is depleted. The urgency can drive customers to make quick decisions.
6. Online-Exclusive Brands
Some furniture stores, especially those with a mix of online and physical retail, may sell exclusive clearance items online. These are often clearance versions of limited-edition or seasonal collections.
7. Special Promotions
Furniture stores may host online-only promotions for clearance items around major online shopping days such as Cyber Monday, Prime Day, or Flash Sale events.
8. Mobile App Discounts
Some stores offer additional online clearance discounts for customers who shop via their mobile apps. These discounts may apply exclusively to clearance inventory.
9. Free Shipping and Delivery
When shopping for clearance items online, some retailers include free or discounted delivery to encourage sales. This is especially beneficial for larger items like couches or dining tables.
10. Best Online Clearance Deals Summary
| Deal Type | Store Type |
|---|---|
| Web-only clearance | Online-only retailers |
| In-store pickup discounts | Brick-and-mortar stores |
| Limited-time sales | All types of stores |
| Mobile app discounts | Retailers with apps |
| Free shipping offers | Larger retailers |
How Do Furniture Stores Decide Which Items to Put on Clearance?
Furniture stores often have to make difficult decisions when it comes to selecting which items will be included in clearance sales. This section dives into the factors that determine whether a piece of furniture is marked for clearance or kept in regular stock.
1. Age of the Item
One of the most common reasons furniture is marked for clearance is that it has been on the floor for too long. Stores tend to cycle out older inventory to make room for new arrivals.
2. Seasonal Changes
Seasonal furniture, such as outdoor items, holiday-specific décor, or winter-themed furniture, is often cleared out when the season ends. Stores need to move these items quickly to prevent them from taking up valuable space.
3. Overstocked Inventory
If a store overestimates demand for certain items, it may have excess stock. Overstocked items are usually discounted to help clear out inventory.
4. Damaged Goods
Minor scratches or dents on furniture can result in a price reduction. While these items are not usually defective, they may be sold at a lower price as part of a clearance event.
5. Discontinued Collections
Once a furniture collection is discontinued, any unsold items are typically placed on clearance. This helps the store move out outdated pieces before the new line is introduced.
6. Promotional or Seasonal Sales
During promotional sales, stores may include clearance items alongside regular sale merchandise to attract more customers. This is common during the holiday season or large store-wide sales events.
7. Slow-Moving Items
Furniture that does not sell well may be included in clearance to free up space for more popular items. Stores use clearance to move items that are not in high demand.
8. New Product Launches
When new furniture collections are launched, older pieces in the same category may be marked down for clearance to create space for the new inventory.
9. Consumer Feedback
In some cases, furniture stores consider customer feedback on particular items. If a certain style or design does not resonate with customers, it may be discounted and placed on clearance.
10. Clearance Selection Process
| Criteria | Reason for Discount |
|---|---|
| Overstock | Too much inventory |
| Age of Inventory | Outdated styles |
| Damaged Goods | Minor imperfections |
| Discontinued Collections | Replaced by newer models |
| Slow-Moving Items | Low customer interest |
How Can I Make the Most of Furniture Store Clearance Sales?
To maximize savings during clearance sales, it’s important to approach the event strategically. This section will help you make the most out of clearance events and snag the best deals.
1. Plan Ahead
Before attending a clearance sale, research the types of furniture you need. Create a list of essential items to avoid impulsive purchases that may not meet your needs.
2. Check Inventory Regularly
If you’re shopping for a specific piece, check back frequently to see if it’s been marked down further. Some stores update their clearance inventory weekly.
3. Look for Bundle Deals
Some stores offer clearance deals on bundled furniture sets. For example, you might find a sofa and loveseat set discounted together, rather than buying each piece separately.
4. Negotiate
During clearance sales, the prices may be flexible, especially on floor models or damaged goods. Don’t hesitate to negotiate for a better deal or ask if further discounts are available.
5. Know Your Measurements
Before purchasing clearance furniture, make sure you know the dimensions of the item and how it fits into your space. Clearance items are usually final sale, and returns are not always possible.
6. Consider Quality vs. Price
Sometimes, clearance items are discounted because they’re not the highest quality. Assess whether the savings are worth it if the furniture might wear out quickly.
7. Set a Budget
It’s easy to get carried away during clearance sales, so set a budget to keep your spending under control. Only buy what you truly need.
8. Take Advantage of Delivery Discounts
Some stores offer discounted or free delivery on clearance items. Factor this into your budget to see if it still makes sense to purchase.
9. Sign Up for Alerts
Sign up for store email alerts or notifications to stay updated on upcoming clearance events and exclusive offers.
10. Understand Return Policies
Make sure you’re familiar with the store’s return and exchange policies, as many clearance items are non-returnable.
Are Clearance Sales Always the Best Time to Buy Furniture?
Clearance sales offer great opportunities to save money, but are they always the best time to buy? In this section, we’ll weigh the pros and cons of shopping during clearance events.
1. Pros of Shopping During Clearance Sales
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Significant Discounts: Clearance sales often offer discounts of 30%, 50%, or even more on furniture.
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Move-Out Deals: Items must go, meaning you may find high-quality pieces marked down significantly.
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Great for Non-Urgent Purchases: If you’re not in a hurry, clearance events allow you to be patient and make a well-thought-out purchase.
2. Cons of Shopping During Clearance Sales
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Limited Stock: Clearance sales only include items that are overstocked or being discontinued, so selection can be limited.
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No Customization: Often, clearance items are pre-made and cannot be customized.
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Final Sale: Many clearance items are sold as-is, so returns or exchanges may not be possible.
3. Best for Specific Needs
Clearance sales are ideal for replacing furniture that is no longer in good condition or for purchasing items that you’re not too particular about (e.g., accent chairs, coffee tables).
4. Not Ideal for Immediate Needs
If you need furniture immediately, the limited availability of popular items during clearance events can make it harder to find exactly what you need.
5. Seasonal Considerations
If you’re buying seasonal furniture, such as patio sets, clearance sales after the season ends may provide the best savings, but you won’t be able to use it immediately.
6. When to Shop Outside of Clearance Sales
If you’re looking for something specific or need customization, regular retail prices may be worth it to ensure you get the exact piece you want.
7. Bargain Hunting vs. Full Price Shopping
Sometimes, waiting for the next big sale or checking for new arrivals may lead to a better selection than the limited clearance options.
8. Alternative Deals
Instead of waiting for a clearance event, look for flash sales, open-box deals, or promotions that can offer similar discounts with a better selection.
9. Clearance Isn’t Always the Best
While great deals can be found, clearance sales are not always the best time to buy. Consider your needs and priorities when deciding whether to shop clearance or wait for a bigger sale.
10. Clearout Deals Overview
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Large discounts | Limited selection |
| No waiting | No customization |
| Great for non-urgent needs | Final sale |
Conclusion
In conclusion, clearance sales at furniture stores can offer significant savings, but they come with some trade-offs, such as limited selection and often no customization options. By planning ahead, researching, and being mindful of the store’s return policies, shoppers can maximize their savings while finding great deals. However, it’s important to evaluate whether clearance events align with your specific needs and timeline, as sometimes waiting for a broader sale or purchasing outside of clearance may better suit your requirements. Always weigh the pros and cons before making a final decision to ensure you’re making the best purchase for your home and budget.
