Bath & Body Works boasts a return policy that's as broad as it gets: "Return anything, anytime for any reason. 100% Guaranteed." While this is shopper-friendly, it can also lead to some cringeworthy moments, like returning heavily used items. To address this, a policy update rolled out in Sept. 2022 with the following:
Returns limited to merchandise in “new, gently used, or defective condition (due to materials or craftsmanship).”
Exchanges restricted to products of the same type and ticket price as the item being exchanged.
Price adjustments exclude select promotions lasting 48 hours or less, for example, Candle Day or Body Care Day.
Fair enough. But let’s take a deeper dive into what this means for Bath & Body Works Rewards members who know the retailer’s sale schedule by heart because, hey, returns still happen.
Bath & Body Works Return Policy
At Bath & Body Works, you've got about 90 days to return your purchase, though holiday times might change that. With an original receipt, you'll likely get a refund back to your original payment method. If not, they'll typically give you store credit. Just make sure whatever you're returning meets at least one of these requirements: new, gently used, or in defective condition (due to materials or craftsmanship). That way, whether you've got the receipt or not, you're more likely to get what you need.
Note: Anything returned beyond the 90 day window will result in merchandise credit, not a refund to your original form of payment.
How to Return an Item to Bath & Body Works
Returning items to Bath & Body Works is convenient and flexible. In-store returns require bringing the item and original receipt or packing slip to any store location. For online returns, customers can mail the item back, with return shipping costs typically covered by the customer. Alternatively, online returns can be processed in-store for a refund or exchange at the current selling price.
Tips to Hack the Bath & Body Works Return Policy
Try the "Buy Now, Return Later" strategy.
Purchase items during Bath & Body Works' sales or promotions, and then return them when they are no longer on sale for a full refund or store credit. This can help you take advantage of discounted prices without feeling rushed to make a decision.
Take advantage of Semi-Annual Sales.
Bath & Body Works typically holds semi-annual sales in January and June, offering deep discounts on select products. Stock up on your favorite items during these sales to save money and potentially avoid the need for returns later.
Join the Bath & Body Works Rewards Program for easy access to past orders without a paper receipt.
Enroll in the Bath & Body Works rewards program to earn points on purchases, receive exclusive offers (like during Member Appreciation Days), and enjoy birthday gifts. This can enhance your shopping experience and provide additional perks when making returns. Additionally, if you use the Bath & Body Works app linked to your rewards account, you’ll have easy access to previous orders
Utilize coupon stacking for maximum Savings.
Combine Bath & Body Works coupons with sales or promotions to maximize your savings on purchases. This can help you score discounts on already reduced items and potentially reduce the need for returns. And if you’re looking for Bath & Body Works mail coupons, they send out printed coupon books on occasion, too.
Something to consider: when you return something at Bath & Body Works, they're going to factor in any deals or discounts you used when you bought it. That means if you got a free item with your purchase or used a coupon, they'll adjust your refund accordingly. Oh, and good news: your shipping confirmation email can double as your receipt, so no need to stress if you misplaced it.
Exchange candles for another scent if the one you purchased isn't working for you.
The great news is you can still return candles, even gently used ones for another scent. One new addition to the Bath & Body Works return policy is that your exchanges must be for the same item at the same price point, perfect for those looking to swap for a new scent. But other than that, this awesome policy remains largely unchanged.
