IKEA Return Policy: What You Need to Know

By bis

IKEA is a Swedish furniture company, founded in 1943. It isn’t just about couches and meatballs (though both are pretty awesome). They offer a vast array of home solutions for every budget and style, all designed to create your dream space. Though navigating their maze-like stores and assembling their flat-pack wonders can be an adventure, the satisfaction of crafting a home you love makes it worth it.

But what if you buy something that doesn’t quite fit your vision? No worries! IKEA’s famously generous return policy will help you. Unopened items can be returned within a whole year (365 days!) for a full refund, giving you plenty of time to decide if that lamp truly lights up your life. Even if you’ve opened something by accident, you have 6 months (180 days) to bring it back for a full refund (sometimes store credit might be offered instead). Just grab your receipt and ID, and you’re good to go.

IKEA In-store returns vs Online returns

In-store Returns

For in-store returns, you need to proceed to the Exchanges & Returns entrance of your nearby IKEA. To reach the exchanges and returns desk, follow the signs. As soon as you get there, register to get in line. Please get in touch with the Customer Support Center if your things were delivered from the shop and you need to arrange for a pickup time. Should you need to send back a little thing you recently bought from the store? Download this PDF to get started.

IKEA Planning Studio and IKEA Pick Up Point locations do not accept returns. Customers should mail their returns to IKEA Brooklyn if Queens is their closest IKEA location.

RELATED: Lowes Return Policy 

Online returns

While returning large online furniture purchases at IKEA isn’t possible by mail, don’t worry! Smaller items can easily make their way back. You have to contact IKEA’s customer service to get a return authorization number and specific instructions. Then, securely pack your item in its original packaging (if available) and label it clearly with the authorization number. Ship it off to the designated address, keeping your tracking details handy until your return and refund are confirmed. With these steps, returning unwanted items becomes a breeze!

Can you make a return without a receipt?

Returning Ikea purchases without a receipt can be an uphill battle. Their policy leans heavily on receipts or Ikea Family accounts for smooth returns, leaving you with limited options if neither is available.

While credit card lookups or Ikea Family records offer a glimmer of hope, the outcome is often store credit, not a full refund. Worse, you might only receive the lowest selling price of the item over the past year, potentially slashing your refund by half. Compared to other retailers, Ikea’s no-receipt policy stings more harshly.

Here’s the reality: Returning without a receipt is technically allowed, but the terms heavily favour Ikea. Be prepared for store credit at a potentially discounted value, and success isn’t guaranteed.

Tip: Consider alternative solutions like online marketplaces if a full refund is crucial. Remember, prevention is key! Hold onto receipts or create an Ikea Family account for smoother future returns.

Can you return an opened item at IKEA

First off, there is a 365-day return window for unopened purchases, within which the original payment method will be fully refunded. With one important exception, though: after the window is opened and used, refunds are only given as shop credit, and it only lasts for 180 days.

Two essential elements are necessary to guarantee a seamless return: item condition and proof of purchase (preferably the original receipt). The object ought to be in “good condition,” with the least amount of noticeable wear or damage. Furthermore, assembled furniture is only eligible for store credit and is subject to a 30% restocking fee.

RELATED: Ace Hardware Return Policy

IKEA return policy exceptions

Although IKEA’s return policy is widely recognized for its flexibility, there are a few undiscovered areas where things don’t quite go as planned. Here’s what you need to know to make sure your return is easy:

Non-refundable items:

  • Mattress: While you can exchange your mattress for another within 90 days, don’t expect a refund. 
  • As-Is Deals: Those tempting “as-is” products with discounted prices come with a catch – they’re final sale and cannot be returned under any circumstances.
  • Countertops: Did you design your dream countertop? custom-made items are ineligible for returns.
  • Fabric: Once you’ve personalized fabric by the meter, it becomes non-refundable
  • Plant: Ikea does not accept returns on plants. 

IKEA Return Policy FAQ

Q: What is the return window for IKEA products?

A: Unopened items: 365 days from purchase with a full refund.

Opened items: 180 days from purchase with a full refund in the original form of payment (except cash). After 180 days, store credit only.

Q: Do I need a receipt to return an item?

A: Yes, ideally the original receipt or gift receipt. If you don’t have it, they may be able to look up your purchase using other information.

Q: What if I lost the receipt?

A: They may be able to offer you store credit for the lowest selling price of the item without a receipt.

Q: Can I return an assembled item?

A: Yes, but you will only get a full refund if it’s unopened and in original packaging. Opened and assembled items are subject to a 30% restocking fee and refund in the form of store credit.

Q: What items are not returnable?

A: Plants, food, textiles, light bulbs, and “As-is” products.

Q: Can I return online orders in-store?

A: Yes, within 30 days of delivery.

Q: Who pays for return shipping for online orders?

A: IKEA covers return shipping costs for defective or damaged items. For other returns, you pay the shipping fee.

Q: Can I exchange an item for a different one?

A: Yes, as long as it meets the return policy criteria.

Q: Do I need to disassemble furniture before returning it?

A: No, bring it as it is, with the box if you still have it.

Q: What if my item is damaged?

A: You can return it for a full refund or exchange within 365 days.

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