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It may be hard to get relief from the dog days of summer, but this month shoppers may get some relief from high prices on products ranging from laptops to gardening tools, if they know where to look.
“August is a relatively slow month for deals,” says Kimberly Palmer, a consumer expert with Nerdwallet. “But there are definitely some standouts.”
Most of the bargains will be on end-of-season summer goods, as retailers continue clearing out inventory and floor space to make room for fall merchandise. Shoppers can also expect to see the launch of early Labor Day sales at the end of the month. The three-day weekend starting on August 30 is an opportunity to find deals on bigger-ticket items like mattresses and appliances.
There are two fun “holidays” to watch for in August. National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day falls on August 4, where you might see deals or freebies from the likes of Crumbl and Levain. And, National Frozen Custard Day arrives on August 8, which brings potential deals from 16Handles and Pinkberry.
You can also take advantage of sales tax holidays offered in 14 states this month.
Here’s what else to keep an eye out for if you’re looking for deals this month.
Laptops
Aside from Black Friday, back-to-school season is the best time of year to purchase a new computer. The markdowns are meant for students, but anyone can take advantage of the deals. Interested in saving more? Consider a refurbished model.
“If you have a big electronics purchase to make that [tax-free weekend] is the time to do it,” advises Sarah Jankowski, director of user growth and integrated marketing at Shopkick.
Where to look for deals: Dell, HP, BJ’s
Potential savings: About 30 percent off
Patio furniture
While prices on patio furniture will likely fall further after September, the selection declines as well. August is the sweet spot for getting a good price with more items to choose from.
Where to look for deals: Wayfair, Kohl’s, local shops
Potential savings: up to 70 percent off
Barbecues
Like patio furniture, grills and their accessories may be further discounted through the fall. That said, if you purchase one now, you’ll still enjoy a lower-than-average price — and potentially have a few more weeks to use it before it gets too cold to eat outside.
Where to look for deals: Lowe’s, Costco, Weber
Potential savings: Up to 60 percent off
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