Return Policies: Know Before You Buy

Furniture return policy document concept

I bought a recliner that looked perfect in the showroom. At home, in my living room with different lighting, the leather color looked completely different. I also discovered the mechanism squeaked slightly when I used it at night when the house was quiet. The store had a 30-day return policy—but by the time I noticed these issues, I was on day 28. I couldn't return it because I'd assembled part of it. That $1,400 lesson taught me to understand return policies before purchase, not after.

Return policies vary enormously in furniture. Here's what you need to know before you buy.

Typical Furniture Return Windows

Standard Return Periods

30 days: Most common standard
60 days: Some retailers offer longer
90 days: Premium retailers, membership stores
Limited/None: Some clearance, custom, or outlet purchases

When the Clock Starts

Date of delivery: Most common
Date of purchase: Some stores start clock at sale date
Date of delivery acceptance: When you sign for delivery

The "30 Days" Reality

Return windows are typically based on delivery date, not purchase date. However:

Some stores consider the return window from delivery even if you don't use the item
Others start from when the item was available (if you're on backorder)
The safe approach: inspect thoroughly within first week of delivery

Return Policy Costs

Return Shipping/Transportation Fees

Typical: $50-200 for large items
Some stores: Free returns within return window
Furniture stores often: Charge for pickup, not just shipping

Restocking Fees

Typical: 10-20% of purchase price
Some waive: For exchange or store credit
Often applies: To special orders and custom pieces

Condition Requirements

Items must typically be:

Assembled: Some stores won't return assembled items
Clean: No stains, odors, or pet damage
Complete: All parts, manuals, packaging included

What's Usually NOT Returnable

Common Exclusions

Custom orders: Made specifically for you
Clearance/floor model items: Often "final sale"
Assembled furniture: Some stores won't accept
Used/damaged items: Any signs of use beyond showroom testing
Missing parts: If you disposed of packaging and can't find all parts
Special occasion rentals: If you rented for an event

After the Return Window

Once return window closes:

Store credit may still be offered
Exchange for different item may be possible
Manufacturer defects still covered by warranty, but returns aren't

"Never buy custom-ordered furniture without being certain. Most stores won't take it back, and you're stuck with what you ordered even if it doesn't work in your space."

Major Retailers' Policies

Ashley Furniture

Return window: 30 days on most items
Requirements: Receipt, original packaging preferred
Fees: Restocking fee may apply
Custom: Final sale typically

Rooms To Go

Return window: 30 days
Requirements: Receipt, in original condition
Fees: Delivery fee non-refundable

Costco

Return window: 100% satisfaction guarantee, typically no time limit on furniture
Requirements: Costco membership required
Process: Free pickup, no restocking fee

Amazon (Third-Party Furniture)

Policy varies: By seller
Amazon's standard: 30 days on most items
White glove delivery: Check seller specific policies

How to Protect Yourself

Before You Buy

Get return policy in writing: Don't rely on verbal assurances
Understand the window: When it starts and ends
Know the fees: Restocking, pickup, shipping
Ask about exceptions: What's NOT returnable
Save all documentation: Receipt, policy printout, emails

After Delivery

Inspect immediately: Within 24-48 hours
Test mechanisms: All positions, multiple times
Check in different lighting: How does it look in YOUR home?
Don't fully assemble: Until you've decided to keep it
Keep packaging: At least during return window

If You Need to Return

Call immediately: When you notice the issue
Document everything: Photos of issues, date of discovery
Be pleasant: You'll get further with customer service
Know your rights: Some states have additional protections

What If You're Outside the Window?

Negotiate Anyway

Stores sometimes accommodate returns outside window:

Manager discretion: Can override policy
Store credit: Even if cash refund isn't possible
Exchange: May be easier than return

Manufacturer Defects

If the issue is a defect (not that you changed your mind):

Warranty claims don't have same time limits
Document defect thoroughly
Warranty repairs are not returns

Credit Card Protections

Some credit cards offer purchase protections:

Price protection: If item goes on sale within X days
Extended warranty: Extends manufacturer's warranty
Damage protection: For covered damages

State Laws and Your Rights

Implied Warranty of Merchantability

Most states have laws implying a warranty that goods are fit for their ordinary purpose. This is separate from express warranties and may apply even if store has "no returns" policy.

When Store Policy Violates Rights

If you receive a defective product:

Store's "no returns" policy may not override your right to a working product
Document defect and communication attempts
Consumer protection agencies can help

My Tips

Never buy custom furniture unless 100% certain
Never fully assemble until return window passes
Test in your home lighting, not just showroom
Get return policy in writing before purchase
Use credit card with purchase protection
Document issues immediately and thoroughly

For more protection strategies, see our warranty guide and cash back guide.

Sarah Mitchell

Furniture Industry Expert, 12 Years Experience

Sarah has worked in furniture manufacturing, product development, and consulting. She founded ReclinerCash to help consumers make smarter furniture decisions.