IKEA Return Policy: A Simple Guide

IKEA is known for its stylish, affordable furniture and home goods. But sometimes, even with the best intentions, a purchase just doesn’t work out. Whether the chair doesn’t fit in your space or the mattress isn’t what you hoped, IKEA makes returns pretty easy if you know the rules.

Here’s a simple, no-fuss guide to help you understand IKEA return policy and make your return experience smooth and stress-free.

IKEA Return Policy at a Glance

Here’s a handy table with all the basics

How Long Do You Have to Return to IKEA?

IKEA is surprisingly generous with return windows:

• Unopened products: You have 365 days (one full year!) to return them for a full refund.
• Opened products: You have 180 days to return them, as long as they’re still in good condition (clean, undamaged, and unmodified).

Don’t Forget:

• You must bring your original receipt or order confirmation.
• You also need a valid government-issued photo ID for every return.

Without these, IKEA won’t be able to process your return

What Can’t You Return?

Some things simply can’t be returned, no matter what:

• Live plants
• Cut fabric
• Custom countertops
• As-is products (those heavily discounted “scratch & dent” finds in the as-is section)

Also, any item that has been modified, stained, dirty, or damaged after purchase is not eligible for return.

The IKEA Mattress Exchange: “Love It or Exchange It”

Buying a mattress is a big deal and IKEA knows it takes time to know if it’s right for you.

Here’s how their mattress exchange policy works:

• You get 90 days to try it out.
• If you don’t love it, you can exchange it one time for another mattress.
• The mattress must be clean and undamaged.
• If the new mattress costs more, you pay the difference. If it costs less, IKEA gives you store credit for the difference.
• Delivery of the exchange is free if your mattress was delivered originally.

Pro tip: IKEA suggests giving your mattress at least one month before making a decision. It takes time for your body to adjust and for the mattress to adjust to you.

For more details on the Mattress Return Policy you can visit the Ikea website.

How to Return Items to IKEA: Step-by-Step Guide

Returning items to IKEA is pretty straightforward if you follow these steps:

1. Gather Your Essentials

Before you head out or start an online return, make sure you have:

• Your receipt or order confirmation (proof of purchase).
• A valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.).
• The same payment card you used for the purchase (for a refund back to your card).
• Your item in the right condition:
  • Unopened: Returnable for up to 365 days.
  • Opened: Returnable for up to 180 days if clean, undamaged, and unmodified.

Don’t Forget: IKEA can’t process returns without your receipt/order confirmation and photo ID.

2. Check Where to Return

• Only full IKEA stores accept returns and exchanges.
• Do NOT go to IKEA Planning Studios or Pick Up Point locations – returns are not accepted there.

3. For In-Store Returns

• Go to the “Exchanges & Returns” entrance at your local IKEA.
• Sign up to join the returns line (there may be a kiosk or staff to assist).
• Time-saver: You can start your return online ahead of time on IKEA’s website to speed things up. The screenshot of the online return page is shared below in this section.
• Hand over your items, receipt, and ID at the returns desk.
• If eligible, you’ll get a refund back to your original payment method (typically within 5–7 business days).

4. For Online or Home Delivery Returns

Small Items (By Mail):

• Download a return slip from IKEA’s website or contact Customer Support for instructions.
• Pack the item securely and include the return slip.
• Ship it following the instructions provided by IKEA.

Large Items (Pickup):

• Call IKEA’s U.S. Customer Support at 1‑888‑888‑4532 to schedule a pickup.
• If available in your area, IKEA may ask you to place the item in a safe, accessible location (like your porch, garage, or doorstep).

5. Mattress Exchanges

• You have up to 90 days to exchange your mattress if it’s clean and undamaged.
• Bring it to the store with your receipt.
• If your mattress was delivered: Pickup and delivery for the replacement mattress are free of charge.

6. Damaged or Missing Parts

• Damaged item? Bring it (or the damaged part) and your receipt to a store for help.
• Missing item or part? Bring your order confirmation.
• Can’t visit in person? Call IKEA U.S. Customer Support at 1‑888‑888‑4532. In many cases, IKEA can ship replacement parts directly to you.

Pro Tip: Bring everything at once — your item, receipt/order confirmation, photo ID, and payment card. It’ll make your return quick and painless.

How to Exchange Items at IKEA

Exchanging items at IKEA is simple, but there are a few rules to follow for a smooth experience.

1. Check Eligibility

• Unopened items: Can be exchanged within 365 days.
• Opened items: Can be exchanged within 180 days if they are clean, undamaged, and unmodified.

2. Condition of the Item

• The item must be in good condition.
• Opened products need to be complete and free from dirt, stains, or damage.

3. Bring Proof of Purchase

• A receipt or order confirmation is required.
• You also need a valid government-issued photo ID.

4. Selecting a New Item

• You can choose a replacement of equal or lesser value.
• If the new item costs more, you’ll need to pay the difference.

5. In-Store Exchange Process

• Go to your nearest IKEA store and use the Exchanges & Returns entrance.
• Sign in for the line and present your item, receipt, and photo ID at the desk.
• The staff will help you with the exchange.

6. Online Purchases

• Items bought online can be exchanged in-store.
• For large items, call 1‑888‑888‑4532 to schedule a pickup. (Pickup availability varies by market.)

Refund Process

• Refunds are issued to the original form of payment.
• Processing usually takes 5–7 business days.
• If an item was part of a promotion, and you don’t return the promotional item, the value will be deducted from your refund

How to Contact IKEA for Help

Need help with a return, exchange, or missing order? Here’s how to reach them:

1. Call: 1‑888‑888‑4532 (IKEA US Customer Support)
2. Visit: IKEA’s Contact Page
3. In Person: Head to your nearest IKEA store’s customer service desk.

Tips for a Smooth Return

• Check the Condition: Don’t try to return items that look used, stained, or broken.
• Keep All Receipts: Tuck Ikea receipts in your wallet or create a special folder. You’ll need them, even for exchanges.
• Don’t Cut Fabric Unless You’re Sure: Buy only what you’re absolutely certain you’ll use. Cut fabric can’t be returned.
• Prepare for the Line: Ikea’s returns line can get busy, especially on weekends. Go early if you can.
• Don’t Lose Your ID: You’ll be asked for a photo ID every time.

Common Questions

Final Thoughts

IKEA’s return policy is one of the most generous out there – 365 days for unopened items and 180 days for opened ones. Just remember to keep your receipt, your ID, and your items in good condition. For mattresses, take advantage of their 90-day exchange program.

With this guide, you can walk into your local IKEA with confidence – whether you’re returning that too-small rug or swapping out a mattress that didn’t work out.

Please Note: Return policies can change over time. While this article aims to provide accurate information based on the policy at the time of writing, it’s always a good idea to double-check the return policy on official Ikea website for the most up-to-date return policy details. For any specific questions or situations not covered here, the official website or contacting Ikea Customer Service directly is the best resource.