Walmart is a bargain hunter’s paradise, but did you know there’s a whole world of hidden clearance deals waiting to be discovered? These treasures aren’t always in plain sight, and if you’re not actively looking for them, you could miss out on significant savings. Hidden clearance items often go unnoticed because they’re not marked as such, or they’re shelved among regular-priced items. Mastering the art of Walmart clearance shopping can save you hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars each year. Whether you’re shopping for groceries, toys, or seasonal merchandise, knowing how to uncover these deals is key. In this guide, we’ll share the best tips for finding hidden clearance items, so you can shop smarter, save more, and leave the store feeling like a clearance queen. Let’s dive into these insider secrets to help you uncover Walmart’s hidden bargains and take your shopping game to the next level.
Understand How Clearance Works
Clearance prices are not the same as rollback prices. Rollback prices are temporary promotions designed to bring shoppers into the store, and they can rise again at any time. Clearance prices, on the other hand, are permanent markdowns aimed at clearing out inventory. Once an item is marked as clearance, it won’t return to its original price. However, these items are often limited in quantity and may sell out quickly. Clearance items are typically discontinued, seasonal, or overstocked products, so when you spot one, it’s a good idea to grab it before it’s gone for good.
Recognize Hidden Clearance
Hidden clearance refers to discounted items that are not marked with clearance tags or placed in the clearance section. These products might be tucked away on high shelves, hidden among regular stock, or even located in completely unrelated sections of the store. For example, a clearance toaster might still be sitting on the shelf in the kitchen appliances aisle without any noticeable signage. Using a price scanner or the Walmart app to check prices is one of the best ways to uncover these hidden deals.
Shop Early for the Best Deals
Timing plays a significant role in clearance shopping. Walmart tends to roll out new markdowns during the first five days of each month. Shopping early in the morning—ideally around 5 or 6 a.m.—gives you an edge because that’s when employees are updating prices. By being one of the first shoppers in the store, you increase your chances of snagging the best deals before they’re picked over by others. Early birds truly catch the worm when it comes to hidden clearance finds at Walmart.
Take Advantage of Post-Holiday Sales
After every major holiday, Walmart discounts seasonal merchandise by 50-90%. These sales typically start the day after the holiday and last for one to two days. Christmas decorations, Halloween costumes, Valentine’s Day gifts, and Easter baskets are just a few examples of items you can find at steep discounts. Stocking up during these sales is an excellent way to save on items you’ll need for the following year. Not only can you save big on decorations and party supplies, but you might also find non-seasonal items included in these markdowns, such as kitchenware or toys.
Build a Relationship with Store Employees
Getting to know Walmart employees, especially managers, can work to your advantage. Store managers are often aware of upcoming markdowns and may share this information if you ask politely. For example, one shopper discovered that a doll she wanted was going on clearance the following week simply by chatting with the store manager. Being friendly and respectful can also make employees more inclined to help you locate hidden clearance items. A simple question like, “Do you have any clearance deals I should check out?” can lead to valuable insights.
Know the Best Times for Toy Clearances
Walmart’s toy clearance events are legendary among bargain hunters. These sales usually happen twice a year: at the end of December through January and again in July. During these events, toys are discounted by as much as 90% to make room for new inventory. This is the perfect time to stock up on birthday or holiday gifts. Even if you don’t have an immediate need for toys, these sales are a fantastic opportunity to buy items for future occasions or donate to local charities.
Familiarize Yourself With Your Local Store
Each Walmart operates independently, meaning clearance items and markdown schedules can vary by location. Store managers make decisions based on inventory levels and local shopping trends, so clearance items in one store may not be available at another. By learning your local store’s layout and patterns, you’ll become more efficient at spotting hidden deals. Pay attention to areas where clearance items are frequently placed, such as end caps, high shelves, or less-trafficked aisles.
Utilize Social Media for Updates
Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook can be treasure troves for clearance shoppers. Many users share their Walmart finds using hashtags like #WalmartClearance, #HiddenClearance, and #ClearanceDeals. Following these hashtags can give you a heads-up on what’s currently discounted in stores across the country. Additionally, joining Facebook groups dedicated to Walmart clearance shopping can connect you with a community of savvy bargain hunters who often share tips, photos, and even item numbers to help you score similar deals.
Look Beyond the Clearance Section
While Walmart’s designated clearance section is a good starting point, hidden clearance items are often scattered throughout the store. Look for yellow tags on shelves in every aisle, as these indicate marked-down prices. In the grocery section, clearance items are often discounted the day before their “best by” date. This includes baked goods, dairy products, and packaged foods. Additionally, check the dented or damaged goods section for even bigger discounts on items that are still perfectly usable.
Use Tools Like BrickSeek
BrickSeek.com is a game-changer for clearance shopping. By entering a product’s SKU or UPC number, you can check its price and availability at Walmart stores near you. The site provides detailed information on clearance prices, stock levels, and even the location of items within the store. While BrickSeek isn’t always 100% accurate—inventory levels can change rapidly—it’s an invaluable resource for planning your shopping trips and deciding which stores to visit. Start with the free version of BrickSeek to explore its features before considering a paid membership.
Take Advantage of Walmart’s Price Matching
Walmart’s price matching policy allows you to save even more on clearance items. The store will match prices listed on Walmart.com as well as competitor prices from retailers like Target and Amazon. However, keep in mind that Walmart doesn’t typically price match clearance prices from other Walmart locations. This is because each store operates independently, and clearance items vary based on local inventory. Always check with your store for the most up-to-date price matching rules.
Shop Online for Hidden Deals
If you prefer online shopping, Walmart’s website is a fantastic resource for finding clearance items. Use the search bar to type in “clearance” and sort the results from lowest to highest price. To avoid third-party sellers, filter your search to display items sold directly by Walmart.com. This method uncovers some of the best online deals, many of which may not be available in-store. Shopping online also lets you take your time and compare prices without the pressure of in-store crowds.
Scan Items to Reveal Hidden Deals
One of the most effective ways to uncover hidden Walmart clearance items is by using the Walmart app to scan barcodes. Often, the price displayed on the shelf doesn’t match the actual discounted price in the system. Scanning items yourself ensures you’re aware of the most accurate and up-to-date pricing. To do this, download the Walmart app, enable location services, and use the in-app scanner to check prices as you shop. Focus on end caps, seasonal sections, and oddly placed items, as these are common hiding spots for clearance deals. For example, a toy marked as $15 on the shelf might scan for $5 in the app. Scanning can also help you identify unmarked clearance items that might otherwise go unnoticed. By incorporating this step into your shopping routine, you can maximize your savings and discover incredible discounts others might miss.
Conclusion: Master the Art of Clearance Shopping
Finding hidden clearance deals at Walmart isn’t just about luck—it’s about strategy and persistence. By understanding how clearance works, shopping at the right times, and utilizing tools like BrickSeek, you can uncover discounts that most shoppers overlook. Whether you’re hunting for groceries, toys, or seasonal items, these tips will help you save big and shop smarter. With these 12 insider secrets in your arsenal, you’re well on your way to becoming a clearance-shopping expert. Start putting these strategies into practice today, and watch as your savings add up with every trip to Walmart. Remember, the thrill of uncovering hidden deals is not just about saving money but also about the joy of mastering the art of smart shopping. Happy bargain hunting!