The Friday/Saturday sale at Bloomingdale's at Mall of America looks to be one of its best if you're looking for bedding or bath items. All towels, including high-end brands such as Abyss and Christy are on sale, but Bloomie's own platinum line is a good towel too.

For sheets, an excellent entry level choice is the 425 thread count Essentials line. All sizes in solid colors are $60 for a set in either percale (crisp almost crunchy), or sateen (soft, silkier). But many other lines are discounted 50 to 75 percent inlcuding Court of Versailles, Barbara Barry, Diane Von Furstenberg, Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein.

Sheets are often a hit and miss purchase but Bloomingdale's satisfaction gaurantee is worthy of the old Dayton's policy. if you're not happy for any reason, keep your receipt and bring it back.

Bloomingdale's always marks down several small appliances to low prices during their sales, but compare them against online prices at Amazon. One good deal is the Kitchenaid Pro 450 4.5 quart lift stand mixer (model #KSS455pssm) in stainless steel finish for $199.99 Several other colors are available online in the same size for $249 to $269, and white is available for $199 at Amazon. But if the stainless color works, this is a savings of about $40 over the lowest online prices. According to Bloomie's ad, it is regularly $355 and it includes a pouring shield and crank to lift the bowl. You also get a $20 Bloomingdale's gift card with mixer purchase. The ad says limited quantities. Call 952-883-2500 to check stock. Or you can order it online but you'll pay an additional $16 in shipping costs.