Discover Great Deals as Walmart Clears Out Patio Chairs

As seasons change, retailers like Walmart often make room for new inventory by clearing out last season's stock. For savvy shoppers, this presents a golden opportunity to find fantastic deals on outdoor furniture, especially patio chairs. Understanding which types of chairs are commonly marked down can help you navigate these clearance events and find the perfect seating for your outdoor space at a fraction of the original price. Below are some of the key styles you're likely to find.

Types of Patio Chairs Often Found on Clearance

1. Classic Folding Bistro Chairs

Bistro chairs are a timeless choice for small spaces like balconies, front porches, or cozy garden nooks. Typically sold in pairs as part of a three-piece set with a small table, these chairs are often made from powder-coated steel or wrought iron. Their main appeal is their space-saving design; they can be easily folded and stored away during inclement weather or when you need to free up floor space. When you see these on clearance, it's an excellent chance to add a touch of café-style charm to your home.

When inspecting a clearance bistro chair, check the joints and folding mechanisms for smooth operation and stability. Look for any signs of rust or chipped paint, as these areas could be vulnerable to further weather damage. Even with minor cosmetic flaws, a sturdy steel bistro chair can offer years of use, especially if you take a moment to touch it up with rust-resistant paint. Their simple, elegant design makes them incredibly versatile, fitting in with a wide range of decorative styles.

2. All-Weather Wicker Club Chairs

Wicker club chairs offer a more substantial and comfortable seating option, bringing the feel of an indoor living room to your patio or deck. Unlike traditional natural wicker, which can degrade quickly outdoors, the models found at stores like Walmart are typically made from all-weather resin or polyethylene (PE) wicker. This synthetic material is woven over a sturdy steel or aluminum frame, making it resistant to UV rays, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. These chairs often come with thick, comfortable cushions that are also designed to be weather-resistant.

Clearance sales are the perfect time to snag these luxurious chairs, as their original price can be quite high. When you find one, pay close attention to the cushions. Check the fabric for any fading or mildew and test the zippers if the covers are removable. Also, examine the wicker weave itself, particularly around the legs and armrests, to ensure it isn't unraveling or cracked. A well-maintained wicker club chair provides deep, comfortable seating perfect for long conversations or relaxing with a book.

3. Zero-Gravity Recliners

For ultimate relaxation, nothing beats a zero-gravity chair. These recliners are designed to distribute your body weight evenly, creating a feeling of weightlessness that can help reduce pressure on your spine and joints. They are a popular item for poolside lounging, camping trips, or simply reclining in the backyard. Most models feature a durable steel frame and a weather-resistant textilene fabric sling that provides support and breathability, preventing you from getting too hot in the sun.

During clearance events, you can often find these chairs at a significant discount. Key features to look for include a smooth reclining mechanism that locks securely into place at any angle. Test this mechanism in the store if possible. Some models also come with convenient add-ons like a detachable sunshade or a side tray with cup holders. Check the elastic cording that connects the fabric to the frame, as this is the part most likely to wear out over time. Fortunately, replacement cord kits are often available and easy to install.

4. Stackable Metal or Plastic Dining Chairs

If you need seating for a larger outdoor dining table or often host guests, stackable chairs are an incredibly practical solution. Made from materials like lightweight aluminum, powder-coated steel, or durable molded plastic, these chairs are designed for easy storage. You can stack a set of four or six in a corner of your garage or shed, taking up minimal space. Their simple, functional design makes them a versatile option for any patio dining setup.

When shopping for these on clearance, check the legs and overall frame for any wobbliness or signs of stress, especially at the weld points on metal chairs. For plastic models, look for discoloration from sun exposure or any cracks. The main advantage here is volume—clearance pricing allows you to buy a full set of six or eight chairs for what you might have paid for just two or three at the beginning of the season, making it an economical way to prepare for future backyard barbecues and family gatherings.

Why Timing Your Patio Furniture Purchase Matters

Understanding the retail cycle is key to getting the best deals on seasonal items like patio furniture. Most major retailers, including Walmart, operate on a predictable schedule. New outdoor furniture collections typically arrive in stores in late winter or early spring, just as consumers begin thinking about warmer weather. This is when prices are at their highest, as demand is just beginning to build.

The prime markdown period begins in late summer, usually around August, and extends into the early fall. As the season winds down, stores need to clear floor space for upcoming holiday and autumn merchandise. This is when you'll see the first round of discounts. The longer you wait, the deeper the discounts become, with the best clearance prices often appearing in September and October. The trade-off, of course, is that selection dwindles over time. By waiting for the lowest prices, you risk the most popular styles selling out. The sweet spot is often that late-August to mid-September window, where there is a good balance of available inventory and significant savings.

Common Questions About Patio Chairs

How Do You Protect Patio Chairs from the Elements?

Protecting your investment is crucial to extending its lifespan. The best method of protection is using waterproof furniture covers. These are available in various sizes and shapes to fit everything from a single chair to an entire dining set. When the furniture is not in use, especially overnight or during rainy periods, keeping it covered will prevent water damage, sun fading, and the accumulation of dirt and debris. This simple step can dramatically reduce wear and tear.

For long-term storage during the off-season, moving your chairs into a protected area like a garage, basement, or shed is the most effective strategy. If space is limited, at least bring the cushions indoors. Cushions are often the first component to fail due to moisture retention, which can lead to mold and mildew. For the frames themselves, regular cleaning helps. Wiping down metal and plastic with a mild soap and water solution removes corrosive agents like pollen and bird droppings, while specialized cleaners can help maintain the look of all-weather wicker.

What's the Difference Between Aluminum and Steel Frames?

When choosing metal patio furniture, the two most common options you'll encounter are steel and aluminum. While they may look similar, they have key differences in weight, durability, and maintenance. Steel is significantly heavier and stronger than aluminum, which makes it very sturdy and less likely to be blown over by strong winds. However, it is susceptible to rust if the protective powder coating is chipped or scratched. Regular inspection and touch-ups with rust-resistant paint are necessary to keep it in good condition.

Aluminum, on the other hand, is naturally rustproof, making it an excellent choice for humid or coastal climates. It is also much lighter than steel, which makes the furniture easy to move around and rearrange. The main downside is that its light weight can make it less stable in windy conditions. High-quality aluminum furniture often has fully welded joints for added strength, whereas less expensive options might be assembled with bolts that can loosen over time. Your choice between the two often comes down to balancing the need for rust resistance and portability (aluminum) with the desire for maximum sturdiness and weight (steel).

Conclusion

Shopping for patio chairs during Walmart's clearance events can lead to substantial savings. By focusing on popular styles like folding bistro chairs, all-weather wicker club chairs, zero-gravity recliners, and stackable dining chairs, you can find high-quality seating for your outdoor living space. Understanding the best time to buy and knowing what to look for in terms of materials and construction will help you make a smart purchase that you can enjoy for many seasons to come.

References

1. Walmart Patio Furniture Deals
   https://www.walmart.com/shop/savings/patio-and-garden/patio-furniture
2. Walmart Patio Chairs Category
   https://www.walmart.com/browse/5428_91416_3986806_4843476
3. Walmart Patio & Garden Clearance
   https://www.walmart.com/shop/deals/clearance/patio-and-garden
4. Walmart Patio Sets Clearance
   https://www.walmart.com/browse/5428_91416_3013177