When I started couponing I thought I was “cool” because I was simply purchasing items on sale and combining with a coupon. This often allowed me to get lots of product for free. It was about 6 months into the process that I realized I had been living under a rock. That’s when I started discovering the Markdown Sections at all the stores that I frequently shop at!
So when it comes to your local stores markdown sections, do you know where they are located? I bet the next time you are in the stores {without the screaming kids of course!} you will begin to take notice. The location of the markdown sections often vary, but, keep in mind there are products in every store that are marked down aka clearanced. For example, my local Kroger stores all vary on their markdown sections. One store has a cart located in the refrigerated section, while the other two stores are located in the back of the store with the Marketplace store having two shelves dedicated to these items in the homegoods section. But, the product on these carts and shelves often remain the same and contain products like diapers, formula and non-perishable items.
The next place to look for markdown products is within the store section itself like the bakery, produce, meat, etc.. Typically your bakery items will remain in the bakery, but, maybe they have their own designated spot. The meat obviously has to stay cold and often put to the side with other marked down meats. You can take these meats home and either use right away or freeze!
When shopping drugstores like Walgreens and CVS the associates often have a shelf dedicated to markdown items. These shelves with markdown items are typically toward the back of the store. However, you can still find discounted products within the aisles as well so be sure to take a stroll!
Now my favorite store to shop at for markdown/clearance items has got to be Target. I’ve picked up numerous good deals. For instance, just last week I picked up 2 Gerber Sleepers for just $4.48. Needless to say I bought a few of them! I ALWAYS hit up the kids clothing clearance section. There’s not a day that goes by that Target doesn’t have kids clothing marked down by at least 30%. I often buy clothing that’s discounted as much as 70% off!
Also in my Target stores, I enjoy shopping the back aisles! The back aisles are often the aisles that aren’t very populated. It’s often the quiet parts of Target that I find the best deals. I have gotten numerous toys and video games for Christmas and Birthday gifts from between 50-70% off, in addition to LOTS of home décor that’s discounted from 30-70% off and how I have decorated our entire home on a budget.
If you enjoy shopping at department stores one of my favorite stores to shop for markdown/clearanced items is Kohl’s. There are discounted products in every section of the store and you can spot it with a yellow sticker! I often combine a Kohl’s Savings Pass with their Kohl’s Cash sales to execute some unbelievable deals. If you are searching for a wedding or birthday present consider heading to your local Kohl’s and score a great product at a fabulous price.
So the next time you are shopping and not in a rush keep your eyes open for the markdown sections. You will be amazed what you can pick up and save even more money by adding a coupon when you can!
Where are your favorite places to find clearance?
My other favorite stores to find good clearance/markdown products are Staples & Office Max. Their clearance products are located in the back of the store on an end-cap. I also like to look for “close-out” merchandise which can be found in every section of the store. My favorites to find these types markdowns are Food Lion & Kroger. One can also find some good deals at Dollar General on their markdown cart and Last Chance isles.