Wayfair Furniture Return Policy

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Thinking about buying furniture from Wayfair but worried about what happens if it doesn’t work out? You’re not alone. Understanding the Wayfair furniture return policy is the first step to shopping with confidence. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from time limits to restocking fees, in simple terms.

We’ll cover how to start a return, what items have special rules, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Our goal is to make this process clear so you can focus on finding the perfect piece for your home.

Wayfair Furniture Return Policy

The core of the Wayfair furniture return policy is a 30-day window from the day your item is delivered. This applies to most items, including furniture, decor, and rugs. If you change your mind or something isn’t right, you have one month to initiate a return.

It’s important to know that “initiate” means you must contact Wayfair to start the process within 30 days. The actual pickup or return shipment can happen after that date, as long as you’ve started the process in time. Always check your order details for the exact delivery date.

What Items Are Eligible for Return?

Most items sold and shipped by Wayfair can be returned. This includes:

  • Sofas, sectionals, and chairs
  • Tables (dining, coffee, side)
  • Bed frames and headboards
  • Dressers and storage cabinets
  • Area rugs and home decor
  • Mattresses (with important conditions)
  • Outdoor furniture

Key Exceptions and Special Rules

Not everything follows the standard 30-day rule. Some products have different policies due to their nature.

Open-Box or Used Items

Clearance, open-box, or refurbished items are often marked “All Sales Final.” These typically cannot be returned unless they arrive damaged or defective. Always read the product listing carefully for these warnings before you purchase.

Assembled Furniture

If you have assembled the furniture, it may still be returnable. However, you must disassemble it safely and pack it securely in its original packaging for return. If the original packaging is gone, you’ll need to work with Wayfair support to find a solution, which might involve a pickup service that provides packaging.

Mattress Return Policy

Mattresses have a unique “100 Night Trial” period. You must try the mattress for at least 30 nights before requesting a return. After that, you can initiate a return anytime up to 100 nights from delivery. Wayfair often arranges for a local charity to pick up the mattress for donation, and you’ll receive a full refund once the pickup is confirmed.

Hazardous Materials & Large Items

Some large or complex items, like pool tables or items containing hazardous materials (e.g., chemicals in some lighting), may require special return instructions. Contact customer service directly for these cases.

Understanding Return Costs: Restocking Fees & Shipping

Whether you pay for return shipping or a restocking fee depends on the reason for the return.

  • Changed Your Mind or Ordered Wrong Item: You are responsible for the cost of return shipping. A restocking fee may also apply, usually between 5% and 20% of the item’s price. This fee covers the cost of processing and repackaging the item for resale.
  • Damaged, Defective, or Incorrect Item Shipped: If Wayfair or the carrier made a mistake, they cover all return costs. There is no restocking fee. You will get a full refund or a replacement sent to you.

Always check your return authorization email for a detailed breakdown of any charges before the return is finalized.

Step-by-Step: How to Return Furniture to Wayfair

Follow these steps to ensure a smooth return process.

  1. Log into Your Wayfair Account: Go to the “My Orders” section on the website or mobile app.
  2. Select the Item to Return: Find the specific order and click “Return Item.” You’ll be asked to choose a reason from a dropdown menu. Be accurate here, as it affects fees.
  3. Review the Return Options: Wayfair will present your options. This could be a prepaid return label for you to schedule a carrier pickup, a QR code for a drop-off at a partner location (like FedEx or UPS), or instructions for a large-item pickup.
  4. Schedule Pickup or Drop Off: For large furniture, Wayfair usually schedules a professional pickup. You’ll get a time window. Have the item ready and accessible. For smaller boxes, you can use the provided label.
  5. Pack the Item Securely: Use the original packaging if possible. If not, use a sturdy box with ample padding. For assembled items, disassemble carefully to avoid damage.
  6. Get Your Refund: Once the return is received and inspected at the warehouse, your refund is processed. The time frame can vary from a few days to a few weeks.

How Refunds Are Processed

Refunds are issued to your original payment method. The timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

  • Credit Card Refunds: Typically appear within 3-7 business days after Wayfair processes it.
  • PayPal or Gift Card Refunds: Usually are faster, often within 24-48 hours.
  • Store Credit: If you choose this option, it’s often issued immediately as a Wayfair e-gift card.

Remember, any non-refundable charges (like return shipping you agreed to pay) will be deducted from your refund total.

What to Do If Your Furniture Arrives Damaged

Immediate action is crucial for damaged items.

  1. Inspect Upon Delivery: If you see visible damage on the box, note it on the carrier’s delivery receipt before signing. Take pictures.
  2. Unpack and Inspect Thoroughly: Do this as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours. Document any damage with clear, well-lit photos from multiple angles.
  3. Contact Wayfair Immediately: Use the “Damaged Item” option in your order page or call customer service. Provide the photos and a description.
  4. Understand Your Options: Wayfair will likely offer a partial refund if the damage is minor and repairable, a full replacement of the damaged part or the whole item, or a full return/refund with free pickup.

Tips for a Hassle-Free Return Experience

  • Keep the original packaging for at least the first 30 days. It makes returns infinitely easier.
  • Take photos during unboxing. This creates a record of the item’s condition when it arrived.
  • Start the return process early. Don’t wait until day 29. Give yourself time to deal with any issues.
  • Read product reviews. Often, other customers will mention their return experiences for that specific item or brand.
  • Consider using a credit card. Many offer additional purchase protection that can be helpful in disputes.

Wayfair’s Return Policy vs. Other Retailers

How does Wayfair compare? Most online furniture stores offer 30-day policies. Some, like Amazon, may have shorter windows for large items. Wayfair’s 100-night mattress trial is competitive with dedicated mattress companies. Their policy is generally standard for the industry, though restocking fees for “change of mind” returns are common with many furniture sellers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I return furniture to Wayfair after 30 days?

The standard return window is 30 days. After that, returns are generally not accepted unless the item is defective and you contact them promptly. They may make exceptions on a case-by-case basis, but it’s not guaranteed.

Does Wayfair charge for returns?

Yes, for returns due to customer preference (wrong order, changed mind). You typically pay return shipping and a possible restocking fee. Returns for damage, defects, or seller error are free.

How long do Wayfair refunds take?

After the warehouse receives your return, processing can take 5-10 business days. The refund then takes 3-7 more business days to show on your original payment method, depending on your bank.

Can I return a used mattress to Wayfair?

Yes, under their 100 Night Trial. You must use it for at least 30 nights. They arrange for donation pickup, and you get a full refund after pickup is verified. You do not need to pack it up.

What if I lost the original packaging?

Contact Wayfair. For large item pickups, the service may bring packaging. For smaller items, you may need to purchase a suitable box. Returns without original packaging may be subject to additional fees if the item gets damaged in transit.

Does Wayfair offer exchanges?

Direct exchanges are less common. The standard process is to return the original item for a refund and then place a new order for the item you want. This ensures you get any current pricing or promotions on the new order.

Can I return open-box furniture?

Items specifically sold as “Open Box” or “Clearance” are usually final sale. They cannot be returned unless they arrive in a condition worse than described or are defective.

Final Thoughts on Navigating Returns

Knowing the ins and outs of the Wayfair furniture return policy empowers you to shop smarter. The key takeaways are the 30-day window, the importance of the return reason, and the value of keeping packaging. While returning large furniture is never as simple as dropping a small package in the mail, Wayfair’s process is designed to handle it.

By following the steps outlined and asking the right questions upfront, you can minimize stress. Always double-check product listings for final sale notes and take good photos during unboxing. With this knowledge, you can furnish your home with greater peace of mind, knowing you understand your options if your new piece isn’t quite the right fit.