As summer begins to wind down and the back-to-school season kicks into gear, it’s time to gear up for one of the most anticipated shopping events of the year – Labor Day! The first Monday in September not only marks a day to celebrate the achievements of the American workforce but also offers an array of incredible deals and discounts across various categories. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your electronics, revamp your wardrobe, or spruce up your home, Labor Day weekend presents an excellent opportunity to snag some great bargains. In this two-part series, we’ll explore some of the best Labor Day deals across different sectors to help you make the most of this shopping extravaganza
To many, Labor Day weekend is the unofficial end to summer, with kids returning to school and summer vacations dwindling down. It might be hard to think about the season coming to a close but there are a few exciting things the upcoming long weekend brings, one of them being incredible deals.
The federal holiday that celebrates American workers falls on the first Monday of September, and this year that is Sept. 4. And while it’s a time to squeeze in one last summer barbecue or beach weekend, it’s also a time for significant savings.
When do Labor Day Sales start?
In the past, we’ve seen retailers offer major deals across categories, from mattresses to home appliances. And last year we saw many popular retailers get in on the action, including Amazon, Home Depot and Walmart. But when can we start to see deals rolling in? We asked Julie Ramhold, Consumer Analyst with DealNews.com, what to expect this Labor Day weekend.
“Typically, Labor Day sales will start showing up as early as two weeks before the holiday itself; last year, we saw the first sale around Aug. 18 … As for those closer to the holiday itself, they’ll likely start no later than the Friday of the holiday weekend, though some will start a couple of days earlier,” says Ramhold.
What items go on sale for Labor Day?
Labor Day is a great time to grab major home essentials, especially summer items, she explains. So, we can expect to see discounts on outdoor grills and other home appliances, patio furniture and mattresses. Ramhold says another thing to look out for is summer clothing since retailers will be wanting to get rid of excess stock — she says you might see discounts up to 70% off!
“Watch for the lowest prices to be on things like shorts, T-shirts, swimwear, sandals, summery dresses and other similar items,” she tells Shop TODAY.
Are Black Friday sales better than Labor Day?
It’s no secret that Black Friday and Cyber Monday is the probably the biggest shopping event of the year, and according to Ramhold, you will typically see bigger sales on those days — but not on everything. She tells us that Labor Day is most likely the best time to grab patio furniture, mattresses and major appliances since they can be a hit or miss on Black Friday. “Retailers have a lot of stock of these kinds of items right now, so they’ll likely offer better discounts during Labor Day as they try to sell off inventory,” she says.
With so many items to look out for, Ramhold says there are a few products you might want to hold out on November sales for and will have better luck scoring deals; this includes electronics such as TVs, toys and fall clothing.
While we’re just under a month out from Labor Day weekend and waiting for official deals to start rolling in, you can score some discounts from major retailers on home items and back-to-school essentials right now — we even found up to 64% off. And make sure to check back here as the official Labor Day sales begin to roll in.
Amazon | Home Depot | Walmart | Target | Macy’s | QVC | Wayfair | Bed Bath & Beyond | J.Crew | Ann Taylor | REI | More deals
Early Labor Day Amazon deals
Artnaturals Anti-Aging Vitamin C Serum
This serum has more than 4,600 five-star rating from shoppers — and it’s currently marked down by 54%. It combines vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and vitamin E, so the brand says it can help diminish fine lines, wrinkles and sun spots.
Amazon Essentials Tiered Fit and Flare Dress
Coming in eight different colors, you can wear this dress well into the new season when paired with a cardigan or denim jacket. Select colors are currently under $25!
Amazon Essentials Two Strap Heeled Sandal
These small-heeled sandals have less than a three-inch lift, so you can feel comfortable wearing them for long periods of time. In fact, one reviewer said they’re perfect for all-day wear and wore them for four weddings.
Apple AirPods (2nd Generation)
Whether you’re in need of an earbud upgrade or are looking to get way ahead of holiday shopping, you can find the second generation of Apple AirPods for under $100! You can expect up to five hours of nonstop listening time on a single charge, says the brand.
Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet
Stream, video call, surf the web, read; the Alexa-enabled Fire tablet really does it all. You can score it for 32% off right now on Amazon.
Molblly Hybrid Mattress
By the looks of it, some mattresses are already being marked down. This memory foam option is currently 20% off and the brand says it’s made of hypoallergenic fabric.
Early Labor Day Home Depot deals
Hampton Bay Stoneham Steel Wood Fire Pit
You’ll be ready for cozy fall backyard nights with a new fire pit. According to the brand, it’s made of weather- and rust-proof material and includes a mesh covering for safety.
Galanz Retro Mini Fridge
This retro mini fridge is perfect for college dorms or extra food storage in the garage. It features a separate freezer compartment and organizational shelving.
Early Labor Day Walmart deals
Shuttle Art 172 Colored Pencils
Back-to-school shopping is in full force and you can grab this pack of colored pencils for upcoming school projects and arts and crafts — there are 172 colors!
Zimtown Charcoal Outdoor Grill
There are still plenty of barbecues to be had, especially since we’re on the brink of football season. This find features two grilling sections so you can cook up more food without wasting time.
Remington Push Lawn Mower
Save $70 off this gas-powered lawn mower, which the brand says is ideal for small lawns. It also has an adjustable handle to suit different heights.
Early Labor Day Target deals
Crayola Markers (Pack of 10)
These markers are a household staple for toddlers, kids and teachers. If you’re looking to stock up for back-to-school essentials, you can grab these for only 99 cents!
HP Officejet Pro 8025 Printer
Whether you’re shopping for college essentials or need to upgrade your home office tech, this wireless all-in-one printer is on sale for 33% off. According to the brand, it can print, scan, fax or copy and has a simple WiFi setup.
Early Labor Day Macy’s deals
Charter Club Petite Denim Jacket
You can grab this denim jacket for just $24 from Macy’s. It comes in five color options, including classic blue and black as well as bright red or yellow denim.
Lifestride Next Level Slip-ons
These shoes are designed with extra arch support and cushioning for comfort. Plus, the brand says they’re machine washable! What else could you ask for? Oh right, they’re on sale, too.
Club Room Men’s Regular Fit Solid Dress Shirt
For business meetings or date nights, this shirt will have him looking sleek and stylish. It comes in multiple colors — we suggest grabbing a couple while it’s marked down to just $15.
Early Labor Day QVC deals
Skechers GO Step Lite Washable Slip-Ons
While these slip-on sneakers are normally $70, you can get them now for under $30. The brand says that they have Goga Mat technology, a cushioned midsole and a stretchy knit upper for comfort. Plus, they’re designed to be washable!
Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Directional Ribbed Cardigan
Barefoot Dreams is known for its ultra-soft blankets and loungewear, and right now you can grab this bestselling cardigan from the brand for 39% off. The brand says that the machine washable knit cardigan is perfect for year-round use, bring it with you to the movie theater, office or anywhere else you want to be cozy.
Early Labor Day Wayfair deals
Wayfair Basics 1800 Series Microfiber Sheet Set
If you’re looking to upgrade your bedding, this sheet set comes in over 20 colorways and even size twin XL for college dorm beds. You’ll want to grab it while prices start at uder $20.
Closet Maid Wall Cabinet Door Organizer
This subtle but huge organizational hack will feel like a massive home upgrade. It hangs behind the door and is perfect for bathrooms, laundry rooms, pantries and more.
Sealy to Go 12-Inch Medium Memory Foam Mattress
This Sealy mattress comes delivered in an easy-setup box. According to the brand, it’s made with cooling technology and moisture-wicking fabric to keep you comfortable all night.
Early Labor Day Bed Bath & Beyond deals
Safavieh Wool Area Rug
Spruce up your living space with a decorative rug. This wool option comes in a variety of colors to suit different decor tastes and sizes start at $23.
Southshore Fine Linens Vilano Bedding Set
If you’re hoping to update your bedding for the new season, this three-piece bedding set comes with a microfiber quilt and two pillow shams. Don’t miss out on this 50% off savings!
Downlite Cloud Top Ultra Plush Pillow Top Feather Bed
Have a mattress that’s a little too firm? The brand says this plush feather bed is filled with hypoallergenic duck feathers — you’ll feel like you’re sleeping on a cloud.
Early Labor Day J.Crew deals
J.Crew Gwyneth Slip Skirt
Right now, J.Crew is offering up to 50% off sale styles. Coming in a painted floral pattern, this flowy skirt is perfect transitional piece for the upcoming season.
J.Crew Vintage Rib Henley T-Shirt
This rib tee is made of a cotton- and elastane-blend material, so you can expect it to be super comfy. The sleeves hit just above the elbow making it perfect for transitional weather.
J.Crew Cotton Poplin Short-Sleeve Sajama Set
We agree with J.Crew — “Something about a matching pj set always makes us sleep better.” This relaxed-fit set features an adorable tangerine pattern that will help you channel summer vibes long after the season changes.
Early Labor Day Ann Taylor deals
Ann Taylor Bobble Flutter Sleeve Top
Ann Taylor is offering an extra 50% off sale styles for a limited time, and you can grab this adorable top for less than $30. Whenever you wear the top, you’ll stand out thanks to the its flutter sleeves with shirred sleeve caps.
Ann Taylor The Pleated Culotte Pant
You can pair any cute blouse with this pleated culotte pant to create the perfect transitional fall outfit. The full-length linen pants will keep you cool, while protecting you from gusts of wind and strong air conditioning.
Early Labor Day REI deals
REI Co-op Swiftland Grid Running Tank Top
This breathable running tank top features anti-chafe seams allowing you to run without worry. Thanks to the top’s reflective trim on the back, you’ll also be able to run from dawn until dusk.
REI Co-op Lightweight Base Layer Half-Zip Top
As we approach autumn, you’ll need an extra layer to keep you warm during your evening runs. And if you prefer a run in the daytime, the half-zip also offers 50+ UPF protection.
More Labor Day deals to shop
Shapermint All Day Every Day Shaper Shorts
Right now, you can save on select Shapermint essentials including these bestselling shaper shorts for 50% off (or 61% off if you buy two!). According to the brand, this shapewear will provide a smoothing effect for the midsection and thighs — and you can even wear them without underwear.
Bedgear Position Performance Pillow
Bedgear is offering 20% off this performance pillow, which comes in two different designs based on whether you’re a back or side sleeper.
Summersalt The Sidestroke
The popular swim brand Summersalt rarely has sales, but ahead of the holiday weekend, the company is marking down select suits and cover-ups by up to 60%. This style is one of Summersalt’s bestsellers and is said to offer compression, boob support and butt coverage. Use the code SPF30 to save.
Madewell Cable Havener Pullover Sweater
Fall is coming, which means it’s time to upgrade your sweater collection. This 50% recycled sweater features full, flowy sleeves and cable stitching. You can score an extra 30% off this sweater and more items in Madewell’s sale section with the code COOLDOWN.
Cozy Earth Bamboo Rib-Knit Lounge Top
During Cozy Earth’s sitewide Labor Day sale, you can save big on bedding and loungewear. According to the brand, this breathable knit top can be worn to bed or as everyday wear. Select colors and sizes are on a sale starting at $77.
Caraway Home Cookware & Minis Set
Caraway is offering a 20% discount on this shopper-loved nonstick cookware set. This set comes with a six pots and pans and four lids.