13 Things to Buy at Sears While You Still Can

Retail pioneer Sears was once a dominant force in the shopping landscape. But now many industry observers, including skittish stockholders, predict that the crumbling giant is on the verge of collapse, which marks a defining moment in retail history. There are, however, plenty of bargains to be had before Sears closes its doors once and for all. We found these in mid-December.

Looking to get back into shape (or in shape for the first time)? Sears offers a huge variety of exercise and outdoors equipment at discounts of more than 50 percent off in many cases. Select items include home gyms, climbers, treadmills, cable machines, and weights. Some are even eligible for free delivery.

You can't get Kenmore appliances anywhere but Sears. Though over the years Cheapism has applauded its air conditioners and gas ranges, not every Kenmore product is great -- and we suggested in April that buyers think twice about a refrigerator model. But for those who want more than 50 percent off certain refrigerators, now may be the time.

We've also given a thumbs-down to a Kenmore washing machine, but Sears is also making a big effort to move the house brand's washers, dryers, and washer/dryer bundles, many for discounts of up to 45 percent or more.  

Sears isn't selling only big-ticket Kenmore items at bargain prices. Countertop microwaves, vacuum cleaners are also on sale, many over 30 percent off and with free shipping for orders over $25.

Sleep-deprived shoppers can save big on hundreds of different mattresses in all sizes and styles. In many cases, there are discounts of more than 50 percent for major brands, including Serta, Sealy, and Beautyrest.

Sears might be the perfect place to scoop up a closet full of shoes. Some items have been seen discounted by up to 80 percent.

Sears is selling luggage sets for as much as 70 percent off. Packages include two-piece, three-piece, four-piece sets, and larger. Hardshell, vinyl, and cloth are all included across many top-selling brands, including American Tourister, Forecast, and Rockland.

Male, female, and unisex bikes are all on sale, including BMX-style bikes, mountain bikes, cruisers, electric bikes, freestyle bikes, and road bikes. In all, more than 100 models are on sale, including brands such as Schwinn, Mongoose, and Huffy.

Coffee lovers can take advantage of more than 150 discounts on reduced-price coffee makers and espresso stations. Brands such as Ninja, Gaggia, Cuisinart, Hamilton Beach, Mr. Coffee, Black+Decker, and Bunn are all included. Select models are an extra 15 percent off with the code GIFTS.

Long associated with the Craftsman brand, Sears is running a sale on select Craftsman equipment, with an especially wide selection of lawnmowers. Right now, there are over a dozen models on sale. Several mowers are advertised for more than $100 off, and in some cases more than $200 off.

Sears offers steep discounts on several different kinds of lawn and garden equipment, most notably line trimmers and weed whackers. There are more than 15 Craftsman models on sale, including corded electric, battery powered, and gas-powered models.

Sears is offering steep discounts on patio furniture, including bistro sets, casual dining sets, chaise lounges, gazebos, tables, cushions, and covers. In some cases, Sears is knocking more than half off regular prices.

Find discounts of more than 50 percent on outdoor bar chairs, bar tables, wicker bars and full bar sets. Even specialty items such as Sunjoy Bahai bars are included in the savings.