If you’re thinking about buying clothes from Bonobos, you should know about their return policy. Understanding the return policy Bonobos offers is key to shopping with confidence, as it outlines how you can send items back if they don’t work out. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from time limits to condition requirements, making the process simple and stress-free.
We’ll cover the step-by-step instructions for both online and in-store returns. You’ll learn about refund methods, any potential fees, and what to do with final sale items. By the end, you’ll be an expert on how to handle any return or exchange with Bonobos.
Return Policy Bonobos
Bonobos aims for a customer-friendly return experience. Their standard policy allows you to return most full-price items within 45 days of purchase for a full refund to your original payment method. Items must be unworn, unwashed, and have all original tags attached.
This generous window gives you plenty of time to decide if you’re happy with your purchase. It’s one of the more flexible policies in the apparel space, which is a big plus for shoppers.
What Items Are Eligible for Return?
Most items you buy from Bonobos can be returned. This includes pants, shirts, suits, outerwear, and accessories. As long as you follow the condition rules and are within the 45-day period, you should be fine.
Here’s a quick list of typically eligible items:
- Chinos and jeans
- Dress shirts and polos
- Suits and blazers
- Sweaters and sweatshirts
- Swimwear (with hygiene liner intact)
- Belts, hats, and other accessories
What Items Are NOT Eligible for Return?
There are some important exceptions to the standard return policy. Knowing these upfront can save you from disappointment later.
- Final Sale Items: These are clearly marked during checkout and cannot be returned or exchanged. This often applies to heavily discounted clearance merchandise.
- Personalized or Monogrammed Items: Any product that has been altered for you specifically is final.
- Gently Used or Damaged Items: Clothing that shows signs of wear, washing, or damage will likely be rejected. This includes missing tags.
- Items Purchased from Third-Party Retailers: If you bought Bonobos gear from another store, like Nordstrom, you must follow that store’s return policy instead.
The 45-Day Return Window Explained
The 45-day clock starts on the day your order is delivered. It’s not from the day you placed the order. Bonobos uses the delivery confirmation from the carrier to determine this date.
If you’re cutting it close, it’s best to initiate the return online as soon as possible. Once you start the process, you usually have a little extra time to get the package to the mail carrier or drop-off location.
How to Return an Online Order to Bonobos
Returning an online order is designed to be straightforward. You can do it all from your computer or phone. Here are the step-by-step instructions.
Step 1: Start Your Return Online
Go to the Bonobos website and log into your account. Navigate to your order history. Find the order containing the item(s) you want to return and select “Return Items.” If you checked out as a guest, you’ll need the order number and the email address used for the purchase.
Step 2: Select Items and Reason
Choose which specific items from the order you are returning. You’ll be asked to select a reason for the return from a dropdown menu (e.g., “Didn’t fit right,” “Style not as expected”). This feedback is helpful for them but doesn’t affect your refund.
Step 3: Choose Refund or Exchange
Decide if you want a refund to your original payment method or an exchange for a different size or color. If the item you want for an exchange is a different price, you’ll be charged or refunded the difference.
Step 4: Print Your Label and Pack Up
Bonobos will provide a prepaid return shipping label. Print this label. Pack the items securely in their original packaging if possible, or any sturdy box. Attach the label clearly to the outside of the package. Remove any old shipping labels.
Step 5: Ship the Package
Drop the package off at the designated carrier (usually UPS or USPS). Keep your drop-off receipt until you get confirmation that the return has been received and processed. This is your proof of shipment incase anything gets lost.
How to Return an Item to a Bonobos Guide Shop
If you have a Bonobos physical store (called a Guide Shop) near you, returns can be even easier. You can return both online purchases and in-store purchases to any open Guide Shop.
The staff there can process your return immediately. You’ll need to bring the items with all tags attached and your receipt or order confirmation email. The refund will typically be issued on the spot back to your original payment method.
Understanding Refunds and Exchanges
How Long Does a Refund Take?
Once Bonobos receives your return package, it takes about 5-10 business days to inspect the items and process the refund. The refund will then go back to your original payment method. The time it takes for the credit to appear on your bank or credit card statement varies by institution, often an additional 3-5 business days.
What About Exchange?
If you requested an exchange, Bonobos will ship the new item to you once the return is received and approved. They may place a temporary authorization hold on your card for the new item until the return is finalized, but this is standard practice.
Are There Any Return Shipping Fees?
Bonobos offers free returns on most full-price items. They provide the prepaid label at no cost to you. However, there are a couple exceptions where you might incur a fee:
- Returns for store credit instead of a payment-method refund are always free.
- If you are returning an item purchased with a promotional discount or gift card, the return might be subject to a $7 shipping fee deducted from your refund. This will be clearly stated when you initiate the return.
Tips for a Smooth Bonobos Return Experience
Following a few simple tips can ensure your return goes off without a hitch.
- Keep the Tags On: This is the number one rule. Don’t remove the tags until you’re sure you’re keeping the item.
- Use the Original Packaging: While not always mandatory, it helps protect the items and looks more professional.
- Act Within 45 Days: Don’t let the window slip by. Mark the delivery date on your calendar if your memory isn’t great.
- Take Photos: If you’re returning something expensive or are concerned about a dispute, take quick photos of the items with the tags attached before you pack them up.
- Save Your Drop-Off Receipt: That little slip from the UPS store is your best friend if a package gets lost in transit.
What to Do About Final Sale Items
Final sale means exactly that—the sale is final. Bonobos does not accept returns or offer refunds for these items. Before you click “purchase” on a final sale item, be very confident about the size and style.
If you recieve a final sale item that is defective or incorrect (e.g., you ordered a medium but received a large), you should contact Bonobos Customer Service immediately. They will usually make an exception in cases of their error or for damaged goods.
Bonobos Return Policy for Gifted Items
Returning a gift is a common situation. Bonobos handles this with a gift card refund.
If you have the gift receipt, you can return the item using the process described above. Instead of a refund to a credit card, you will receive the refund in the form of a Bonobos gift card, which will be emailed to you. The value will be based on the price paid at the time of purchase.
Without a gift receipt, returns are generally not accepted unless the purchaser can provide the original order information.
International Returns
If you are located outside the United States and ordered from Bonobos.com, you are still eligible to return items within 45 days. However, international customers are responsible for the cost of return shipping and any applicable customs duties or taxes. The refund will be issued to your original payment method, minus any international return shipping costs Bonobos incurs.
It’s recommended to contact customer service before sending an international return to get the correct procedure and label.
Contacting Bonobos Customer Service
If you run into any issues or have specific questions not covered here, Bonobos customer service is available to help.
- Email: Use the contact form on their website.
- Phone: Call 1-855-206-2187.
- Hours: Typically Monday-Friday, 9am-9pm ET, and weekends 10am-7pm ET.
Having your order number ready will speed up the process significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long is the Bonobos return period?
You have 45 days from the delivery date to return most full-price items for a refund.
Does Bonobos have free returns?
Yes, returns for a refund to your original payment method are typically free, with a prepaid label provided. Some promotional purchases may have a small fee if returned for cash.
Can I return Bonobos items to a store?
Yes, you can return online and in-store purchases to any Bonobos Guide Shop for immediate processing.
What is Bonobos’ return policy on sale items?
Items marked “Final Sale” cannot be returned. Other sale items are usually returnable within the standard 45-day window, though a shipping fee may apply in some cases.
How do I start a Bonobos return?
Log into your account on their website, go to your orders, and select the items to return. You’ll get a prepaid label to print.
How long do Bonobos refunds take?
After they recieve the return, processing takes 5-10 business days, plus additional time for your bank to post the credit.
Can I return worn clothing to Bonobos?
No. Items must be unworn, unwashed, and have all original tags attached to be eligible for a return.
What if my Bonobos return is past 45 days?
Returns initiated after 45 days are generally not accepted. You may contact customer service to explain the situation, but approval is at their discretion.
Does Bonobos accept returns without a receipt?
For in-store returns, a receipt or order confirmation is required. For online returns managed through your account, the electronic record serves as your receipt.
What is Bonobos’ exchange policy?
You can request an exchange for size or color during the return process. The new item will ship after your return is approved.
Knowing the return policy Bonobos has in place makes shopping their collection a risk-free endeavor. Their 45-day window and free return shipping on most items provide ample opportunity to ensure you love what you buy. By following the clear steps for online returns or taking advantage of the in-store option, you can handle any post-purchase changes of heart with ease. Always remember to check for final sale markings and keep those tags on, and you’ll have a positive experience from click to closet.