Warby Parker Returns Policy

If you’re thinking about trying a pair of Warby Parker glasses, understanding the Warby Parker returns policy is a smart first step. It gives you the confidence to shop, knowing you have options if something isn’t quite right. Their approach is designed to be straightforward and customer-friendly, which takes a lot of the stress out of buying eyewear online.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll cover return timeframes, how to start a return, what condition your items need to be in, and how refunds work. Whether you bought prescription glasses, sunglasses, or contacts, you’ll find clear instructions here.

At its core, the policy is built on a generous trial period. This allows you to truly test your new glasses in your daily life, not just for a few minutes at home. It’s a key part of their mission to make buying glasses more accessible and less risky.

The main thing to remember is the 30-day window. You have a full 30 days from the day your order is delivered to initiate a return for a refund or exchange. This applies to both prescription and non-prescription items.

There are a few important conditions, of course. The glasses must be returned in like-new condition, with all original accessories. We’ll get into the specifics of that later. First, let’s break down what you can actually return.

What Items Are Eligible for Return?

Most products you buy from Warby Parker directly can be returned within 30 days. Here’s a quick list:

Prescription Glasses: Full frames and lenses.
Non-Prescription Glasses: Also known as “plano” glasses.
Sunglasses: Both prescription and non-prescription.
Contact Lenses: Unopened boxes only.

There are a couple of exceptions to be aware of. These items are generally considered final sale:

Opened boxes of contact lenses (for health and safety reasons).
Items purchased from third-party retailers (like other optical shops or department stores). You’d need to follow that store’s policy.
Clearly used or damaged items that aren’t in like-new condition.

The “Like-New” Condition Requirement

This is the most important part of the return process. “Like-new” means the glasses should look as if they’ve never been worn outside your home trial. Here’s what Warby Parker checks for:

Frames: No scratches, scuffs, or signs of wear on the front, temples, or nose pads.
Lenses: Must be completely free of scratches, smudges that won’t come off, or marks.
Accessories: All original items must be included. This is the case, cloth, and any paperwork or info cards that came in the box.

A good rule of thumb is to handle your trial glasses with care. Avoid wearing them for activities that could lead to damage if you’re unsure about keeping them. Put them back in the case when not in use.

How to Start a Return (Step-by-Step)

Initiating a return is done online and is pretty simple. Follow these steps:

Go to the Returns Page: Visit warbyparker.com/returns on your computer or phone.
Enter Your Details: You’ll need your order number and the email address used for the purchase.
Select Items to Return: Choose which items from your order you want to send back.
Choose Return or Exchange: Select whether you want a refund or if you’d like to exchange for a different frame, prescription, or product.
Print Your Label: A prepaid return shipping label will be generated for you to print. If you don’t have a printer, you can often have the label scanned at a carrier location like a UPS Store.
Pack the Items Securely: Place the glasses and all accessories back into the original packaging. Seal the box securely.
Attach the Label & Ship: Attach the prepaid label to the outside of the box. Drop it off at a UPS location or schedule a pickup.

Once Warby Parker receives your return, they will inspect it to ensure it meets the condition requirements. Then, they’ll process your refund or begin working on your exchange.

Understanding Refunds and Processing Times

After your return is approved, the refund process begins. Here’s what to expect:

Timeline: Refunds are typically processed within 5-10 business days of Warby Parker receiving your return.
Method: The refund will be issued back to your original payment method. If you used a gift card, store credit will be issued instead.
What You’ll See: Note that it may take an additional 3-5 business days for the refund to appear on your bank or credit card statement, depending on your financial institution.

For exchanges, the timeline is a bit different. Once your return is received and approved, Warby Parker will start producing your new pair. The production and shipping time for the new item will apply, which you can estimate on their website during checkout.

The Home Try-On Program vs. Purchased Glasses

It’s crucial to distinguish between their free Home Try-On program and an actual purchase. They are handled very differently.

Home Try-On: This is a free service where you select 5 frames to try at home for 5 days. You are not charged for these samples. You simply return them in the prepaid envelope provided. There is no refund involved because you weren’t charged.
Purchased Glasses: When you buy glasses, you are charged. If you want to return them, you must follow the official returns policy steps outlined above to get your money back. You cannot use the Home Try-On envelope for purchased items.

Mixing these up is a common mistake. Always use the correct return method for what you have.

What About Exchanges?

Exchanges are just as simple as returns. You can exchange your glasses for a different frame, a new prescription, or even a different product type (like swapping glasses for sunglasses).

The process starts the same way: initiate a return online and select “Exchange” as your reason. You’ll be guided through selecting your new item. If there’s a price difference, you’ll either be charged the extra amount or refunded the difference.

A key point: Warby Parker often recommends placing a new order for the item you want while you process the return of the original item. This gets your new pair to you faster. Once your return is received and approved, they’ll process the refund for the first order. This is often quicker than waiting for the full exchange cycle.

International Returns

If you ordered from outside the United States, the return policy is similar but with a few key differences. You still have 30 days to initiate a return. However, return shipping is not prepaid for international orders. You are responsible for the cost of return shipping and any applicable customs duties or taxes.

It’s also your responsibility to ensure the package is properly marked for return to avoid additional customs charges. The refund will be issued in the original currency, and any currency conversion differences or bank fees are not covered by Warby Parker.

Tips for a Smooth Return Experience

Keep the original packaging until you’re sure you’re keeping the glasses.
Initiate the return online as soon as you know you want to send something back. This locks in your 30-day window.
Use the provided prepaid label for domestic returns to avoid shipping costs.
Consider getting a drop-off receipt from the shipping carrier as proof you sent the package.
If you have questions, contact customer service before sending the return. They’re known for being helpful.

Common Questions and Issues

What if my glasses arrived damaged or incorrect?
Contact customer service immediately. This is not a standard return. They will usually send a replacement pair quickly and provide a prepaid label to return the faulty item.

Can I return glasses I had adjusted at a store?
Yes, adjustments performed at a Warby Parker store do not affect your ability to return the glasses within the 30-day period.

What if I lost the case or cloth?
It’s best to contact customer service. Missing accessories can sometimes affect the return, but they may be able to offer a solution, like a partial refund or store credit.

Warranty Information: Beyond the Return Window

The 30-day return policy is for changes of mind or fit issues. Warby Parker also offers a separate, limited warranty that covers manufacturing defects for one year from the purchase date. This includes things like:

Frame breakage under normal use that isn’t due to accident or misuse.
Peeling or cracking of coatings on the frames.
Lens issues related to material or workmanship.

If you encounter a problem after 30 days but within a year, reach out to customer service with details. They will review it as a warranty claim, not a return, and may repair or replace the glasses.

FAQs About Warby Parker Returns

How long do I have to return Warby Parker glasses?
You have 30 days from the delivery date to initiate a return for a refund or exchange.

Are Warby Parker returns free?
Yes, for domestic orders within the U.S., Warby Parker provides a prepaid return shipping label. International customers cover their own return shipping costs.

What is Warby Parker’s exchange policy?
Their exchange policy runs concurrently with the return policy. You can exchange any item within 30 days of delivery, provided it’s in like-new condition. The process is managed through their online returns portal.

Can I return contact lenses to Warby Parker?
You can return unopened boxes of contact lenses within 30 days for a full refund. For safety reasons, opened boxes cannot be returned.

How fast are Warby Parker refunds?
Once they receive and approve your return, refunds are processed in 5-10 business days. It may then take a few additional days for the funds to show in your account.

Do I need the original box to return Warby Parker glasses?
While it’s highly recommended, you should use the original packaging to protect the glasses during shipping. All original accessories (case, cloth, paperwork) must be included for the return to be accepted.

Can I return glasses to a Warby Parker store?
Yes, you can return online purchases to any physical Warby Parker retail location. This is often the fastest way to get your refund processed. Just bring the glasses, all accessories, and your order information.

Understanding the Warby Parker returns policy makes shopping with them a low-risk, high-reward experience. Their 30-day window gives you ample time to ensure your glasses are perfect for your face and your lifestyle. By following the simple steps—keeping items in like-new condition, using the online portal, and including all parts—you can handle any return or exchange smoothly. This customer-centric approach is a big part of why so many people feel comfortable choosing their eyewear online with Warby Parker.