Navigating the Best Home Depot Clearance Deals in 2026

Finding a fantastic deal at Home Depot feels like a major win for any homeowner or DIY enthusiast. While the store is known for its vast inventory, the real treasures often lie in the clearance section. As we look at 2026, understanding where to find the deepest discounts can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars on your projects. Clearance deals are a mix of timing, strategy, and knowing what to look for. These are not just random markdowns; they often follow predictable patterns based on seasons, new model releases, and inventory management. Here’s a detailed guide to the best categories for clearance deals you can expect to find at Home Depot throughout the year.

1. Seasonal & Patio Furniture

This is arguably the most predictable and lucrative clearance category. As summer winds down, typically around late August and September, Home Depot needs to clear out its large inventory of patio sets, grills, umbrellas, and outdoor decor to make room for holiday items. The discounts start small, maybe 25% off, but they can plummet to 75% or more if you’re patient. The key is to watch the inventory closely. If you see a set you love, you have to weigh the risk of it selling out against the reward of a deeper discount. Floor models are another goldmine here. A display patio set that has been sitting outside all summer might have minor cosmetic blemishes, but it will often be marked down significantly further than the boxed inventory.

Beyond the end-of-summer sales, also look for deals after major holidays. Grills and smokers might see another price drop after the Fourth of July, and outdoor heating solutions like fire pits and patio heaters will be cheapest in the spring. By planning your purchases for the off-season, you can furnish your entire outdoor living space for a fraction of the original cost. Remember to inspect any floor models for missing parts or significant damage before committing to the purchase, as these are often sold "as-is."

2. Major Appliances (Floor Models & Dented)

The appliance section is a fantastic place to hunt for bargains, but you need to know where to look. The best deals are almost always on floor models or "scratch and dent" units. Every year, manufacturers like Samsung, LG, and Whirlpool release new models with updated features. To make space for this new inventory, retailers must clear out the previous year's models. These are brand-new, perfectly functional appliances that are only being discounted because they've been superseded. You can often find last year's top-of-the-line refrigerator or dishwasher for 30-50% off its original price.

Even better deals can be found on appliances with minor cosmetic damage. A small scratch on the side of a washing machine or a tiny dent on a refrigerator door—parts you may never even see once the unit is installed—can result in a massive discount. These items are typically located in a designated clearance area within the appliance section. Don't be afraid to politely ask an associate if they have any unboxed or returned items in the back. These deals often aren't advertised online, making an in-store visit essential for the savvy appliance shopper.

3. Power Tools & Equipment

For both professionals and weekend warriors, power tool deals are highly sought after. Major brands like DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Ryobi frequently update their tool lines and offer bundled kits, especially around holidays like Father's Day and Christmas. After these promotional periods, you can often find overstocked or discontinued tool sets on clearance. For instance, a drill-and-driver combo kit from last season might be 40% off simply because the new version comes in a slightly different case or has a minor ergonomic update.

The real value often lies in finding individual tools that have been discontinued or are part of a retired product line. If a brand updates its battery platform, the older-generation tools can be deeply discounted. This is a great opportunity to expand your collection if you are already invested in that battery system. Look for yellow clearance tags in the tool aisles and on the end caps. This is also a category where online-only clearance deals are common, so be sure to check the "Special Buy of the Day" on Home Depot's website regularly.

4. Paint & Painting Supplies

The paint department is a hidden gem for clearance finds. The most common deal is on "oops" paint. These are custom-mixed paints that were returned by customers because the color was slightly off or they simply changed their mind. You can get a gallon of high-quality Behr or Glidden paint for as little as a few dollars. The color selection is completely random, but if you're flexible or painting a small space like a closet or a piece of furniture, you can't beat the price. These paints are usually found on a designated shelf in the paint department and are sold "as-is."

Beyond mistinted paint, you can also find deals on discontinued paint lines, primers, and stains. When a manufacturer updates its color palette for the year, the old colors are often marked down to clear shelf space. Additionally, look for clearance deals on painting supplies like brushes, rollers, and tape, especially after a major promotional event. Buying these staples when they are on clearance can significantly reduce the overall cost of your next painting project.

5. Flooring & Tile

Redoing your floors can be one of the most expensive home improvement projects, but the clearance section can make it much more affordable. You can find incredible deals on laminate, vinyl plank, hardwood, and tile. The clearance flooring is typically made up of discontinued styles or the remaining stock from a large special order that wasn't fully used. The key is to make sure there is enough square footage available for your entire project before you buy. It’s a common mistake to find a great deal only to realize there isn't enough material to finish the room.

Tile is another fantastic clearance find. You'll often find high-end porcelain or natural stone tiles for pennies on the dollar because they are from a discontinued line. This is perfect for smaller projects like a bathroom floor, a kitchen backsplash, or an accent wall. Always buy at least 10% more than you need to account for cuts and mistakes, as you likely won't be able to find more of that specific clearance tile again.

6. Lighting & Ceiling Fans

The lighting and ceiling fan aisle undergoes frequent changes as design trends evolve. What was popular last year might be on the clearance rack this year. This is a perfect opportunity to upgrade your home's fixtures without breaking the bank. Look for deals on everything from chandeliers and pendant lights to bathroom vanity lights and outdoor sconces. As with appliances, manufacturers release new models annually, so last year's ceiling fan designs often get marked down significantly in the spring and fall.

Floor model fixtures are another excellent source of savings. A chandelier that has been hanging in the store for a few months might be discounted by 50% or more. Just be sure to inspect it carefully for any scratches or missing hardware. LED light bulbs also end up on clearance, especially multi-packs, as lighting technology continues to advance. Stocking up on discounted bulbs can lead to long-term savings on both purchase price and energy bills.

Understanding the Home Depot Clearance Calendar

The clearance deals at Home Depot aren't random; they follow a rhythm dictated by seasons, holidays, and product cycles. Understanding this calendar is key to planning your shopping trips and snagging the best deals. The most significant markdowns are tied to seasonal changes. As mentioned, patio furniture and grills go on deep discount in late summer and early fall. Conversely, snow blowers, shovels, and winter supplies will be cheapest in the spring. Holiday decor is another obvious one; shopping for Christmas lights on December 26th or Halloween decorations on November 1st will yield discounts of 75% or more.

Beyond seasonal items, pay attention to new product launches. Major appliances and power tools typically see new models released annually. This means the previous year's models will start getting marked down to make room. This often happens in the fall for appliances, as manufacturers prepare for Black Friday promotions, and throughout the year for tools. By recognizing these patterns, you can anticipate when the items on your wish list are most likely to hit the clearance aisle and be ready to act.

Pro Tips for Maximizing Your Clearance Savings

How to Find Hidden Clearance Deals at Home Depot?

The most dedicated deal hunters know that not all clearance is advertised in the weekly flyer. The key is to train your eyes to spot the yellow price tags. These tags signify a clearance item, and the price ending in a "6" (e.g., $25.06) often means it's a final markdown and won't go any lower. Always walk the end caps of every aisle, as this is where stores consolidate clearance stock. Don't neglect the very top shelves or the back corners of the store, either, as these are common hiding spots for overstock items.

Another advanced technique is searching for "penny items." These are products that have gone through the final markdown cycle and are supposed to be removed from the shelves but were missed. If an item scans at the register for one cent, the store is supposed to sell it to you for that price. Finding these is rare and requires luck, but it’s a testament to how deep the discounts can go for those willing to hunt.

What's the Difference Between Clearance and Special Buy?

It's important to understand the different types of deals you'll encounter. A "Clearance" item, marked with a yellow tag, is a product that the store is phasing out and will not be reordering. This could be due to it being a seasonal item, a discontinued model, or simply overstock. The prices on clearance items will typically drop over time until they are sold.

A "Special Buy," often marked with an orange or red tag, is different. This is a product brought in by Home Depot in a large quantity specifically to be sold at a promotional price for a limited time. These are not being discontinued. Once the Special Buy inventory is gone, it's gone, but the price is static—it won't get marked down further like a clearance item. The "Special Buy of the Day" online is a prime example of this type of promotion.

Can You Return Home Depot Clearance Items?

In most cases, yes. Home Depot's standard return policy generally applies to clearance items. This typically gives you 90 days to return a product with a receipt for a full refund. However, there can be exceptions, so it's crucial to check before you buy. Certain items may be marked "Final Sale" or "As-Is," particularly heavily discounted floor models or "oops" paint. These items cannot be returned.

Always ask an associate or check your receipt if you are unsure about the return eligibility of a specific clearance purchase. For appliances, the return window is much shorter (usually just 48 hours to report any issues), even for clearance models. Understanding the return policy for each item gives you peace of mind and protects you from getting stuck with a product that doesn't work for your needs.

Conclusion

Shopping the Home Depot clearance section in 2026 is a smart strategy for any homeowner looking to save money. The key to success is understanding which product categories offer the most consistent deals and the timing behind the markdowns. From seasonal patio furniture and major appliances to power tools and flooring, significant savings are available year-round for the patient and observant shopper. By learning to spot hidden deals, understanding the difference between clearance and special buys, and knowing the return policy, you can tackle your next home improvement project for a fraction of the cost.