When it comes to purchasing outdoor furniture, timing can be just as important as style or durability. Savvy shoppers know that the best time to buy is not always when the sun is shining brightest—it’s when retailers are adjusting inventory, launching new collections, or clearing out stock. This guide will help you plan your purchase for maximum savings without compromising on quality or selection.
Seasonal Buying Guide
Spring (March – May)
- Pros: New inventory hits the floor. The widest selection of colors, styles, and collections.
- Cons: Prices are typically at their highest due to demand.
- Best for: Shoppers who want first pick of trendy designs or need furniture before summer.
Summer (June – July)
- Pros: Mid-season sales around Memorial Day and Fourth of July. Some retailers offer bundle deals.
- Cons: Inventory is starting to shrink. Certain bestsellers may already be out of stock.
- Best for: Those seeking moderate savings with decent availability.
Late Summer to Fall (August – October)
- Pros: The holy grail of outdoor furniture deals. Retailers offer steep discounts to clear space for fall and holiday merchandise.
- Cons: Limited styles and sizes left. Some stores may have minimal stock.
- Best for: Budget-conscious buyers focused on value over selection.
Winter (November – February)
- Pros: Clearance sales, especially online. Bonus savings around Black Friday and post-holiday promotions.
- Cons: Sparse selection. Mostly discontinued or off-season stock.
- Best for: Off-season planners or those shopping for next year’s setup.
Month-by-Month Breakdown
| Month | Price Trend | Availability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| March | High | High | Early buyers & planners |
| April | High | High | Full-price shoppers |
| May | Moderate | High | Pre-summer sales |
| June | Slight Discounts | Medium | Patriotic holiday deals |
| July | Moderate Deals | Medium | Mid-season refresh sales |
| August | Big Discounts | Medium | Clearance season begins |
| September | Major Discounts | Low | Last call on seasonal sets |
| October | Steep Clearance | Very Low | Best prices of the year |
| November | Promo Discounts | Very Low | Holiday sales |
| December | Online Only | Very Low | Gift sets and accessories |
| January | Clearance Deals | Low | Pre-spring markdowns |
| February | Budget Buys | Medium | Preparing for spring |
Tips to Score the Best Deals
- Sign up for newsletters from outdoor furniture brands like POLYWOOD, Outer, and Yardbird to receive early access to sales.
- Use price tracking tools like Honey, CamelCamelCamel, or Google Shopping to monitor discounts.
- Visit physical outlet stores or warehouse sales, which may offer better in-person clearance than online.
- Shop smart during holidays—Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day are known for aggressive outdoor deals.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying too early: You’ll pay full price and potentially miss markdowns.
- Waiting too long: You may get a deal, but your dream set might be gone.
- Skipping local inventory: Brick-and-mortar stores often have stock not listed online.
FAQs
Q: Is Labor Day a good time to buy outdoor furniture?
A: Yes, it’s one of the best times of the year for clearance deals on patio furniture, especially in-store.
Q: Are winter purchases worth it?
A: If you’re flexible on style and can wait until spring to use your items, winter offers deep discounts.
Q: Do high-end brands offer seasonal sales?
A: Absolutely. Brands like Frontgate and Design Within Reach often run end-of-season or warehouse sales.
Q: Can I negotiate prices on showroom models?
A: Yes—especially toward the end of summer. Floor models are often discounted and open to negotiation.
Conclusion
If you’re shopping for value, aim for August through October to take advantage of markdowns. If selection is your priority, start browsing in March or April before peak demand hits. No matter when you shop, keeping an eye on promotions, being flexible with timing, and doing your research will ensure you land the right outdoor setup at the right price.
