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Clothing Return Policy Guide 2026
Updated January 2026 · 16 stores compared
Clothing generally has some of the most consumer-friendly return policies in retail, with most stores offering 30–90 days. Nordstrom's unlimited policy and Anthropologie's 365-day window are industry leaders. Final Sale items are the main exception to watch for.
Best Window
No limit
Average Window
70 days
Stores Compared
16
Clothing Return Policy Comparison
Sorted by return window length. Windows shown are specific to clothing where stores have category exceptions.
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Best Store to Buy Clothing: Nordstrom
Nordstrom has no time limit on clothing returns and accepts items in good condition without demanding reasons. Anthropologie's 365-day unworn policy is close behind. Both stores prioritize customer satisfaction over strict timelines.
See Nordstrom's full return policy →Tips for Returning Clothing
- ✓Always check if an item is marked 'Final Sale' — Final Sale clothing cannot be returned at any store.
- ✓Remove tags carefully — most stores require original tags still attached for full refund.
- ✓H&M and Zara: swimwear and underwear are hygiene exceptions — they cannot be returned.
- ✓Lululemon won't accept returned items that have been hemmed, washed, or damaged (unless defective).
- ✓Marshalls and TJ Maxx: bring your receipt — without it, you get store credit at the lowest recent price.
- ✓Amazon's return process for clothing is easy: most items qualify for free returns within 30 days.
Frequently Asked Questions About Clothing Returns
- Which store has the best clothing return policy?
- Nordstrom has the most generous clothing return policy — no time limit and accepts items in good condition. Anthropologie gives 365 days for unworn, unwashed items. REI gives 365 days for apparel. Kohl's and Target both give 90 days for most clothing.
- Can I return washed clothing?
- Generally no — washing clothing means it's been used and accepted. The only exception is if washing revealed a defect (shrinkage, color bleeding, seam failure). Nordstrom may make exceptions. Most stores (Lululemon, Zara, H&M, Gap) explicitly do not accept washed items.
- What happens if I lose the receipt for a clothing return?
- Nordstrom, Target, Kohl's, and Gap can look up your purchase by credit card or account. Without proof of purchase, most stores give store credit at the current selling price. Marshalls and TJ Maxx give credit at the lowest recent price.
- Can I return lululemon clothing after wearing it?
- Lululemon accepts returns within 30 days for items in original condition — unworn and unwashed. Worn or washed items can only be returned if there's a quality defect, not due to normal wear. Items that have been hemmed are also non-returnable.