Walmart Clearance Hacks: When to Shop and What to Look For In Stores and Online

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Walmart cart with check out aisles in the background


There’s something so satisfying about scoring a great deal—especially when it feels like you uncovered a secret sale no one else knows about! If you love the thrill of bargain hunting, you’re going to want to know about hidden clearance deals at Walmart.


Yep, Walmart is packed with clearance items that aren’t always labeled or obvious, both in stores and on Walmart.com. And with just a few smart tips, you can learn how to spot them, know whether the price could drop even lower, and shop like a clearance queen (or king).

Let’s dig in and unlock the secrets to saving big at Walmart!

Bonus: Click here for your chance to claim a Walmart gift card. 


Image of a Walmart roll back tag on a shelf with rolls of tape in the background


What Is “Hidden Clearance” at Walmart?


Hidden clearance refers to items that are marked at one price on the shelf or online—but actually ring up for much less at checkout or in the Walmart app.

This can happen in stores when employees don’t update the price tags, or online when markdowns quietly roll out. It’s not a glitch—Walmart uses these price changes to help move inventory and adjust based on store location and demand.

Bottom line: If you’re only looking at the price on the sticker or screen, you could be missing out on major savings.


Download screen for Walmart app


How to Find Hidden Clearance In Walmart Stores


Let’s start with in-store shopping. Here’s how to uncover those sneaky deals:

  • Download the Walmart App and use the barcode scanner.
    Just open the app, tap the barcode icon, and scan the item’s tag. You’ll instantly see if it’s priced lower than the sticker says. It’s fast, free, and surprisingly fun!
  • Don’t skip the regular aisles.
    While clearance sections and end caps are worth checking, hidden deals are often tucked away on regular shelves—especially in home goods, clothing, and toys.
  • Visit less-busy stores.
    Smaller or more rural Walmart locations tend to have more markdowns and less foot traffic, which means better chances of finding clearance items that haven’t been picked over.


A clearance sign at Walmart with clothes in the background


How to Read Walmart Clearance Tags: Is It the Lowest Price?


Walmart has a bit of a system when it comes to clearance pricing, and knowing how to read the tags can help you decide whether to buy now or wait.

Here’s what to look for:

  • Prices ending in .00 or .50 – These usually mean the item has reached its final markdown. It’s as low as it’s going to go, so grab it if you want it!
  • Prices ending in .97 – These are often not the final price. There may be another markdown coming, especially if the item has been on clearance for a while.
  • Multiple stickers on the tag – Carefully peel back the top one. If you see two or three price reductions, the item is likely nearing its final discount.

Most Walmart locations do markdowns around the beginning and middle of the month, so shopping shortly after can give you first pick of new clearance items.


Image of Walmart website viewed through a magnifying glass


How to Find Hidden Clearance on Walmart.com


Finding secret deals online takes a little digging, but it’s worth it. Here’s how:

  • Search for keywords like:
    • “Clearance”
    • “Rollback”
    • “Special Buy”
    • “Flash Picks”
  • Sort by price (low to high) within any category to bring up the best bargains.
  • Look beyond the label. Some clearance items won’t actually say “clearance,” so comparing similar items can help you spot one that’s oddly priced lower.
  • Watch for third-party sellers. These don’t offer Walmart clearance pricing, so be sure you’re buying from “Sold and Shipped by Walmart” if you’re hunting for hidden deals.


Woman scanning item with phone in store with cleaning products in background


Use BrickSeek to Track Clearance Prices


If you want to get really savvy, try using BrickSeek. It’s a handy tool that helps you check local inventory and pricing for Walmart items.

Here’s how it works:

  • Copy the item’s SKU or UPC from Walmart.com
  • Paste it into BrickSeek’s inventory checker
  • Choose your ZIP code to see local store availability and pricing

It’s not always 100% accurate, but it gives you a solid idea of where you might find the best price—and whether it’s worth a trip to the store.


Signage for signing up for Walmart plus


Smart Tips to Save Even More


Clearance prices are great, but you can stretch your dollars even further with a few bonus strategies:

  • Use cashback apps like Ibotta or Rakuten for extra savings on eligible purchases.
  • Stack digital or manufacturer coupons where allowed.
  • Shop post-holiday clearance. Right after Christmas, Easter, Valentine’s Day, and even Back-to-School season are goldmines.
  • Sign up for Walmart+ for perks like early access to deals and free shipping.


Walmart cart from perspective of shopper with clothing section in background


Best Times to Shop Walmart Clearance


Timing can make a big difference. For the best deals, aim to shop:

  • Mid-week (Tuesday through Thursday mornings are usually ideal)
  • Right after major holidays
  • At the end of each season (think: winter coats in early spring, patio furniture in late summer)

And don’t forget—new markdowns often appear at the start and middle of the month, so those are prime clearance-hunting days.




Hot Departments for Clearance Finds


Some departments tend to have better clearance deals than others. Be sure to check:

  • Clothing and shoes
  • Home décor and furniture
  • Toys and games (especially after holidays)
  • Electronics and accessories
  • Beauty and personal care

These areas are packed with hidden gems just waiting to be discovered.






With a little know-how and a few tools, shopping Walmart clearance becomes less about luck and more about strategy. Whether you’re scanning barcodes in-store or searching online, you now have everything you need to find the real deals—and know when to snag them before they’re gone.

Happy bargain hunting! 🛒🛍️🤑



Related: Spring Cleaning on a Budget: DIY Cleaners and Freebies

*Price and availability subject to changes by vendor.
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