Untangling the Wayfair Return Policy the Easy Way

Let's be real, Wayfair's return policy could use some improvement. It's a bit of a headache to figure out, especially when you've got something that just doesn't work out. Surprisingly, there's a long list of things you can't return, and plenty of exceptions and special rules for certain items.

Now, I've been a regular at Wayfair's sales, snagging deals left and right, like during their Way Day event and Anniversary Sale. So, I'm here to share what I've picked up about their return policy. I'll walk you through what to do if you get something damaged or defective, and whether those Open Box items can be sent back.

I've tried to make sense of the Wayfair Return Policy, breaking it down into simple terms with all the important stuff you need to know. If after reading this you still want to shop at the retailer, don’t do so without Wayfair coupons and always download The Krazy Coupon Lady app for up-to-date info on their best sales.

Wayfair Return Policy

Wayfair allows returns within 30 days of delivery. Refunds are issued to the original payment method or as store credit. Items must be in their original condition, unassembled, and in their original packaging. Returns are accepted with or without a receipt, but providing a receipt or order number speeds up the process.

Certain products have different return time frames. Mattresses can be returned within 100 days. Large appliances must be returned within 48 hours of delivery as long as they have not been installed. 

Items not eligible for return include open box items, clearance items, gift cards, personalized items, items bundled at discounted rates (unless the entire bundle is returned), anything marked as "Non-Returnable" on the sale page, live plants, and swatches

Does Wayfair have free returns?

Not exactly. You're on the hook for return shipping and any associated restocking fees. But if it's a Wayfair damaged item (meaning something that was accidentally shipped to you already damaged), that return is free.

How to Return an Item to Wayfair

For online returns, log in to your Wayfair account and go to the "My Orders" section. Select the item you want to return and follow the prompts to start the return process. You will receive a prepaid shipping label, but the return shipping cost will be deducted from your refund unless the return is due to a Wayfair error.

In-store returns are only available for Wayfair items if they are made in the retailer’s one physical store in Wilmette, Illinois. However, if you bought the item through a Wayfair pop-up shop or event, you need to follow the online return process. 

Wayfair accepts returns only if items are in their original condition, meaning they must be unassembled and in the original packaging. Used, damaged, or assembled items are not accepted for return. Opened items are acceptable as long as they meet these conditions.

Tips to Hack the Wayfair Return Policy

Leverage the extended holiday return policy.

During the holiday season, Wayfair extends its return window. Items purchased between Nov. 1 and Dec. 31 can be returned until Jan. 31. Use this to your advantage by planning holiday purchases early, knowing you have an extended period to make returns if needed.

Use store credit to avoid return shipping fees.

If you choose store credit instead of a refund to your original payment method, Wayfair often waives the return shipping fee. This hack can save you money on return shipping costs, especially for larger items.

Request a return without packaging.

If you no longer have the original packaging, contact Wayfair customer service. They may still accept the return and provide you with guidance on how to proceed. This can be particularly useful for larger items where keeping the original packaging is impractical.

Make the most of Wayfair's damaged item policy.

If an item arrives damaged, you can often get a replacement or a partial refund without returning the item. Contact customer service immediately upon discovering the damage and provide photos as evidence. This can save you the hassle of a full return and still resolve the issue.

Use Wayfair's assembly services to your advantage.

If you use Wayfair's professional assembly service and the item is not as expected, you can often return it even if it has been assembled. Ensure you request this service through Wayfair, as they are more lenient with returns on items assembled by their professionals.

Make use of free sample swatches.

For items like furniture and rugs, Wayfair offers free fabric and material samples. Order these swatches to ensure the color and texture match your expectations, reducing the likelihood of needing a return due to mismatched aesthetics.

Inspect large appliances before accepting delivery.

Always inspect large appliances like refrigerators or washing machines before accepting delivery. Once you accept and plug in the appliance, returns are only possible if it arrives damaged. This helps avoid restocking fees charged by the manufacturer and passed on to you.

Be aware of return shipping costs.

Wayfair charges for return shipping, which varies based on the size, weight, and distance the item must travel. Orders $35 or under typically incur a $4.99 fee. Larger items, like furniture, can cost significantly more to return, sometimes exceeding the purchase price. Always factor this into your return decisions.

Thankfully, if your item arrives damaged or defective, you won't pay for return shipping. Document the damage with photos immediately upon arrival. Small items may get a free return shipping label for FedEx or USPS, while larger items will need a Wayfair-arranged pickup from your home. Keep the item in its original packaging.

Call customer service for leniency.

Wayfair’s return policy can be frustrating, but calling their Customer Service at 844-963-1026 and being polite can help. Smaller items in good condition are more likely to get leniency, while larger items like bed frames, couches, or barstools have stricter return conditions.