Shopping for kids’ clothes is fun, but sometimes things just don’t work out. Understanding the return policy Carters offers is key to a stress-free experience. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from time limits to condition requirements, so you can shop with total confidence.
We’ll cover how to return items bought online or in-store. You’ll learn about refund methods, exchange options, and what to do with gift purchases. Let’s get started.
Return Policy Carters
The core of the Carters return policy is designed to be straightforward. They aim to make the process simple for customers. In general, you can return most items within 90 days of purchase, as long as they are in new, unworn condition with all original tags attached.
This applies to purchases made at Carters and OshKosh B’gosh retail stores, outlet stores, and online. Having your receipt or proof of purchase makes the process fastest. Without it, options may be more limited.
What You Can Return
Most items from Carters are eligible for return or exchange. This includes:
- Clothing (tops, bottoms, pajamas, outerwear)
- Footwear
- Accessories like hats and bibs
- Baby gear and items from the layette collection
- Items purchased on sale or clearance (note: these may be subject to different refund methods)
What You Cannot Return
For safety and hygiene reasons, some items are final sale. These typically include:
- Opened packages of underwear or socks
- Personalized or monogrammed items
- Items that have been worn, washed, or damaged
- Products with missing tags or labels
- Certain promotional items may also be non-returnable
The 90-Day Return Window
The 90-day return period is standard. It starts from the original purchase date. It’s a good idea to initiate your return well before the 90 days are up, especially if you are mailing it. This allows time for the package to be received and processed by their warehouse.
If you have a gift receipt, the return period is usually extended. It often goes to 120 days from the purchase date. Always check the details on your specific receipt for the exact deadline.
How to Return Carters Online Purchases
Returning items you bought on the Carters website or app is simple. You have two main options: by mail or in-store. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown for each method.
Option 1: Return by Mail
This is the most common method for online returns. Follow these steps:
- Log into your Carters.com account. Go to ‘Order History’ and select the item(s) you wish to return.
- Initiate the return. You’ll need to print a prepaid return shipping label that will be provided. If you don’t have a printer, you can often have the label emailed to a FedEx location for printing.
- Pack the items securely in any box. Attach the return label clearly on the outside. Remove or cover any old shipping labels.
- Drop the package off at a FedEx drop-off location. You can track the return using the number on your label.
Refunds are usually issued within 10-14 business days after the return is received and processed. The refund will go back to your original payment method.
Option 2: Return In-Store
This is often the fastest way. You can take your online purchase to any Carters or OshKosh retail store, including outlets.
- Bring the items you want to return in their original condition.
- Bring your packing slip or the order confirmation email (digital or printed).
- A store associate will process the return at the register. You’ll get your refund immediately if you paid with a card or cash. Store credit or a gift card is issued if you don’t have proof of purchase.
Remember, returning online purchases in-store is very convenient. It saves you a trip to the post office and you get your refund faster.
How to Return In-Store Purchases
If you bought something at a physical Carters store, you should ideally return it to a store. The process is quick and you can often walk out with an exchange or refund on the spot.
Steps for In-Store Returns
- Gather the items with all original tags attached. Make sure they are unworn and unwashed.
- Locate your original receipt. This is very important for getting your original payment method refunded.
- Visit any Carters or OshKosh store. An associate will help you complete the return.
What Happens Without a Receipt?
If you’ve lost your receipt, don’t panic. Carters can often look up your purchase if you used a credit card, debit card, or provided your email at checkout. If they can’t find the transaction, your return will be handled as a non-receipted return.
For non-receipted returns, you will typically receive the lowest selling price from the past 90 days in the form of a merchandise credit or gift card. Some restrictions may apply based on store management discretion.
Understanding Refunds and Exchanges
Knowing how you’ll get your money back is crucial. The method of refund depends on how you paid and where you return the item.
Refund Methods
- Credit/Debit Card: Refunds are issued back to the original card. It can take 3-10 business days for your bank to post it after Carters processes the return.
- PayPal: The refund goes back to your PayPal balance.
- Gift Card: The amount is refunded to a new Carters gift card.
- Store Credit/Merchandise Credit: Issued as a physical or digital gift card, often used for non-receipted returns or after the 90-day period.
- Cash: Usually only available for in-store returns where you paid with cash and have the original receipt.
Exchange Process
Exchanging an item is easiest done in a physical store. You can bring the item you wish to exchange, pick out the new size or style, and a store associate will handle the transaction. If the new item costs more, you’ll pay the difference. If it costs less, you’ll get the difference refunded.
For online exchanges, you typically need to process a return for the original item and then place a new order for the item you want. Contact customer service to see if they can facilitate a direct exchange to save on shipping.
Special Circumstances and Exceptions
A few situations have specific rules. It’s good to be aware of these before you start the return process.
Returning Gifted Items
If you received a Carters item as a gift, you have two main options:
- With a Gift Receipt: This is the best scenario. You can return the item within the extended gift period (often 120 days) to a store or by mail. You will receive a gift card or store credit for the item’s value at the time of the original purchase.
- Without a Gift Receipt: You can still attempt a return. It will be treated as a non-receipted return, and you will likely receive merchandise credit for the item’s current selling price.
International Returns
If you ordered from Carters.com and had it shipped to an address outside the United States or Canada, you cannot return it to a U.S. store. You must use the mail-in international return process outlined on the website. Be aware that you are responsible for the cost of return shipping for international orders, and original shipping fees are not refundable. Duties and taxes are also typically non-refundable.
Final Sale and Clearance Items
Most clearance items can be returned within the standard 90-day window. However, the refund will be for the price you paid, not the original price. Always check the product description or tag for a “Final Sale” marking. These items cannot be returned under any circumstance, so be certain before you buy.
Tips for a Smooth Return Experience
A little preparation can make the return process effortless. Here are some pro tips:
- Keep Your Receipts: File them digitally or save the paper copy until you’re sure the item is a keeper. This is the single best thing you can do.
- Inspect Items Quickly: Try on clothes soon after you get them. This ensures you’re within the return window if a size is off.
- Keep Tags On: Don’t remove tags or packaging until you’re ready to use the item.
- Use the Original Packaging: For mail returns, using the original box isn’t required, but it can be helpful.
- Track Your Mail-In Returns: Always get a drop-off receipt from FedEx when you ship a return. This provides proof you sent the package.
- Check Holiday Policies: During the winter holidays, Carters often extends the return deadline for purchases made in November and December. Check their website for the specific annual policy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to get a refund from Carters?
After they receive your return, processing takes about 10-14 business days. The refund then appears on your payment method within 3-10 business days, depending on your bank.
Can I return Carters items to an OshKosh store?
Yes, you can. Since the brands are sister companies, you can return Carters items to any OshKosh B’gosh retail or outlet store, and vice versa.
What if my Carters item is defective or damaged?
If an item has a manufacturing defect (like a broken zipper or a seam that unravels immediately), contact Carters customer service even after the 90-day window. They often make exceptions for genuine defects and will help you with a replacement or refund.
Does Carters offer free return shipping?
For returns within the U.S. and Canada that are initiated through your online account, Carters typically provides a prepaid return shipping label. There may be a deduction from your refund for return shipping in some cases, like for international orders or without a receipt. Always check the terms when you start the return.
Can I return swimwear or costumes?
Swimwear and costumes can be returned only if the hygienic liner is intact and all tags are attached. If the liner is removed or the item shows signs of wear, it cannot be accepted for safety reasons.
What is Carters’ return policy for car seats or furniture?
Due to safety regulations, larger baby gear items like car seats, strollers, and furniture may have a different return policy. You should contact customer service directly before attempting to return these items to confirm the process and any restrictions.
How do I check my return status?
For mail-in returns, use the tracking number on your return label. For in-store returns, you’ll get a receipt at the time of the transaction. You can also check the status of online-initiated returns by logging into your account on Carters.com.
Contacting Carters Customer Service
If you have a unique situation or questions about your specific return, reaching out to customer service is the best step. You can find the contact information on the Carters website. Having your order number, receipt, or any relevant details ready will help them assist you faster.
Understanding the return policy Carters has in place gives you the freedom to shop for your little ones without worry. By following the guidelines on time limits, item condition, and having your proof of purchase, you can ensure every return or exchange is handled quickly and fairly. Now you’re ready to tackle that growing pile of outgrown clothes or the wrong size with ease.