West Elm Return Policy: Simplified

West Elm is known for its stylish furniture and modern home décor. Whether you’re furnishing a new place or adding a few cozy touches, shopping with them is pretty exciting. But what if something doesn’t work out? That’s where understanding their return policy comes in.

In this article, I’ll break down the West Elm return policy in a simple, easy-to-understand way. Let’s make returns one less thing to worry about.

West Elm Return Policy Overview

What Can Be Returned (And What Can’t)

Eligible for Return

You can return most West Elm items within 30 days of receiving your order. But for quick-ship upholstery, you have just 7 days.

Registry Items

West Elm will gladly refund eligible items purchased from your registry within 90 days of your event or within 90 days of purchase—whichever is later.

Other return guidelines include:

• Items must be in good, unused condition.
• Having the original packaging helps (but it’s not required).
• You’ll need proof of purchase.

Not Eligible for Return

Some items are always final sale and cannot be returned, including:

• Open Box and clearance items (those ending in $.97)
• Monogrammed or personalized products
• Made-to-order furniture
• Mattresses and foundations
• Gift cards
• Items that are damaged from normal wear and tear

If you’re unsure about a product, check before you buy. And always double-check monograms before clicking “purchase”—they’re not returnable.

What Counts as Proof of Purchase?

To get a refund or store credit, you need to show proof of purchase. West Elm accepts these:

• Original paper or gift receipt
• Electronic receipt
• Original packing slip with order number
• Order number itself
• Gift registry number

No receipt? No refund.

How to Return an Item

In-Store Returns

The easiest way to return most non-furniture items is to take them to a local West Elm store.

Important Notes:

• Returns are free when done in-store.
• West Elm Outlet stores do not accept returns, even if it’s a regular item.

By Mail (UPS)

If your item was shipped to you, you can mail it back using a prepaid UPS return label.

Steps to Return by Mail:

1. Go to West Elm’s online return center.
2. Enter your order number and billing ZIP code (or shipping ZIP if it was a gift).
3. Use the prepaid UPS return label.
4. Pack the item securely in its original box.
5. Drop it off at a UPS location.
6.  If you do not have your order number, please call customer service at 1.888.922.4119.

Heads-up: You might have to pay for return shipping, depending on why you’re returning the item.

By Phone (Furniture or Oversized Items)

• For large furniture that wasn’t delivered by mail, you’ll need to call West Elm’s Customer Care team at 1.888.922.4119 to schedule a return.
• Return fees may apply.

How Refunds Work

Refunds are processed based on the kind of receipt you provide:

Note: Shipping and processing fees are never refunded, no matter the reason.

Price Adjustments? Not at West Elm

West Elm doesn’t offer price adjustments. That means if the price goes down after you buy something – even if it hasn’t shipped yet – you won’t get a refund for the difference.

So if you’re thinking about buying a sale item, just know the price you pay is final.

Returning Gifts and Registry Items

Gifts

If you return a gift with a gift receipt, you’ll get merchandise credit for the value listed on the receipt.

Registry Purchases

West Elm gives you more time for returns if it’s a gift from your registry.

• Return within 90 days of your event or 90 days from purchase, whichever is later.
• The same eligibility rules apply.

What About International Orders?

If your order was shipped outside the U.S., the process is different. You can’t just use the website return system.

Instead:

1. Contact the Customer Care Center first to get authorization.
2. Refunds are handled by Borderfree, in the original currency.
3. Shipping and processing fees are not refunded.

Here’s who to contact, based on location:

How to Contact Them for Help

Need help with your return, can’t find your receipt, or have questions?

Here’s how to reach West Elm’s Customer Care:

• Phone (U.S.): 1.888.922.4119
• Wedding/Registry Support: 1.855.860.3081
• International Phone: +800.15004444
• Email: international@westelm.com
• Website Support: Return Lookup Tool

Pro Tips for Hassle-Free Returns

Here are a few quick tips from me:

1. Hang on to the box! – Keeping the original packaging makes returns way easier and helps protect your item during shipping.
2. Double-check the return window. – Especially for quick-ship upholstery. That 7-day rule sneaks up fast.
3. Watch out for those $.97 price tags. – If the item ends in .97, it’s final sale. No take-backs.
4. Keep your receipts organized. – Snap a picture or save your email confirmation just in case.
5. Returning a gift? – Make sure you get a gift receipt if there’s a chance you won’t keep it.

Common Questions

Final Thoughts

Returning to West Elm doesn’t have to be a hassle as long as you know the rules. Stick to the return windows, avoid excluded items, and hold onto those receipts. Whether you’re swapping out a color or fixing a damaged order, you now have the info you need to shop (and return) with confidence.

Happy shopping!

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 West Elm website for the most up-to-date return policy details. For any specific questions or situations not covered here, the official website or contacting West Elm Customer Service directly is the best resource.