As a savvy shopper and self-proclaimed retail enthusiast, I‘ve spent my fair share of time browsing the aisles at Target. From home goods to beauty products, they seem to have it all – including an impressive selection of intimates. But what happens when those new undies don‘t fit quite right or that bra isn‘t as comfortable as you hoped? That‘s where Target‘s return policy comes in.
While Target is known for a generous 90-day return window for most unopened items (and a full year for Target-owned brands), navigating the world of underwear returns can be a bit trickier. To help fellow consumers make informed decisions, I‘ve done a deep dive into Target‘s policy, as well as those of their major competitors. Consider this your ultimate guide to returning the unmentionables.
The Basics: Target‘s General Return Policy
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of panty returns, let‘s review Target‘s standard policy. For most unopened items in new condition, you have 90 days from the purchase date to make a return. If you paid with a RedCard, you get an extra 30 days. For Target-owned brands like Auden, Stars Above, and Colsie, the return window extends to a full year. Proof of purchase is required, but if you don‘t have a receipt, Target may be able to look up your purchase or issue a merchandise return card for the current lowest selling price.
It‘s worth noting that Target also offers an extended holiday return window for purchases made between October 1 and December 25. For these items, the 90-day clock starts on December 26, giving you more time to make returns. However, this extended policy excludes items in the Target-owned brand "Cat & Jack" and certain electronics.
The Underwear Exception
Now, onto the main event. When it comes to underwear, bras, and lingerie, Target‘s return policy is a bit more strict in the name of health and safety. According to their website, intimates are only eligible for return if they are "new and unused with original tags and packaging." This policy applies to all underwear, including socks, bras, and shapewear.
So what does that mean for you? Essentially, if you‘ve worn it, you own it – even if you just tried it on briefly. Once the tags are removed, the item is yours for good. No exceptions.
This may seem harsh, but it‘s actually a common practice across most major retailers. Walmart has a nearly identical 90-day policy for new and unused underwear. Kohl‘s offers a bit more wiggle room with their "No Questions Asked" guarantee, but still requires intimates to be new with tags attached. Even lingerie giant Victoria‘s Secret, which used to offer full refunds for gently worn bras, updated their policy in 2017 to only accept new, unworn items to "protect the health and well-being" of customers and associates.
So why the strict stance on skivvies? It all comes down to hygiene. As retail consultant Carol Spieckerman explains, "Retailers have to draw the line somewhere when it comes to returns, and intimate apparel is an obvious choice from a health and sanitation perspective." While it may be frustrating for consumers, it‘s a necessary precaution.
By the Numbers: Underwear Buying and Return Habits
To put Target‘s policy into perspective, let‘s take a look at some statistics on consumer underwear buying habits. According to a 2020 report by NPD Group, the average American woman owns 21 pairs of underwear, though 10 percent of women own 35 or more pairs. However, a survey by Tommy John reveals that 46 percent of Americans have owned the same pair of underwear for a year or longer, while 38 percent admit to having underwear that‘s over 5 years old.
So what about returns? Unfortunately, specific data on underwear return rates is hard to come by, as most retailers lump intimates in with general apparel. However, a 2018 report by Return Magic estimates that around 5 percent of all clothing purchases are returned, with poor fit being the number one reason.
Interestingly, online purchases tend to have much higher return rates than in-store buys. A study by Invesp found that while brick-and-mortar stores see return rates around 8-10 percent, online apparel sales can have return rates as high as 40-50 percent. This is likely due to the inability to try items on before purchasing.
The Environmental Impact of Underwear Returns
While it‘s important to find intimates that fit well and feel comfortable, it‘s also worth considering the environmental impact of returns. The EPA estimates that 11.3 million tons of textile waste ended up in landfills in 2018 alone. And according to Optoro, returned inventory creates 5 billion pounds of waste each year.
Fortunately, some retailers are taking steps to minimize textile waste. Target, for instance, has partnered with I:Collect (I:CO) to collect and recycle used clothing, shoes, and accessories. Since 2016, they‘ve diverted over 550,000 pounds of materials to be reused or recycled into new products.
As consumers, we can do our part by only buying what we need, choosing high-quality items that will last, and properly washing and caring for our intimates to extend their lifespan. When it is time to part with old underwear, consider recycling through a textile program like I:CO.
Tips for a Successful Undie Return
Despite your best efforts, sometimes a return is necessary. To ensure a smooth process and avoid disappointment, keep these tips in mind:
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Keep your receipt and tags. Target requires proof of purchase for all returns, so hold onto that receipt or packing slip. If your intimates came with a hygienic liner or additional tags, keep those intact as well.
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Try on carefully. If you need to try on underwear or bras to check the fit, do so over your own undergarments. Many stores have disposable liners available for trying on swimwear – don‘t be shy about asking for one to use with bras.
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Make returns promptly. While Target gives you 90 days (or a year for owned brands), it‘s best to make returns as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the higher the likelihood tags or packaging will be misplaced.
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Be nice. Returns can be frustrating, but remember, Target‘s policy is in place for the health and safety of all customers. Getting angry or arguing with customer service will only make the process more unpleasant for everyone.
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Shop smarter. Read product descriptions, check size charts, and filter reviews from customers with similar body types. A little research can minimize the need for returns.
When You Can‘t Return: Alternative Options
Let‘s say you bought the cutest pair of lace undies on clearance, got them home, and took the tags off to try them on…only to find they don‘t fit right and aren‘t eligible for return. You‘re not out of options! Here are a few things you can do with unwearable intimates:
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Donate. Women‘s shelters, foster child organizations, and immigration centers often accept new underwear donations to distribute to those in need. Be sure to call first to confirm their policies.
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Sell. If your items are new, you may be able to recoup some of your money by listing them for sale on sites like Poshmark or Depop. Just be sure to disclose that all sales are final in your listing.
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Repurpose. Designate awkward undies as period panties or use them as polishing rags for shoes. An ill-fitting bra can find new life as a bathing suit top or part of a funky costume.
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Recycle. Many cities and organizations now offer textile recycling services for old clothing and linens. H&M stores, for instance, accept any brand, any condition clothing for recycling across all their locations.
The Bottom Line
Target‘s underwear return policy may seem strict at first glance, but it‘s actually fairly standard across the retail industry. By limiting returns on intimates to new and unworn items only, they‘re protecting the health and safety of both customers and employees.
As a consumer, the best way to avoid return-related headaches is to carefully consider your purchases in the first place. Take advantage of Target‘s generous 90-day window to try on items at home and make sure they work for you. Keep tags and packaging intact until you‘re sure, and hold onto that receipt!
If you do end up with a pair of unmentionables you can‘t return, consider alternate options like donating, selling, or recycling. A little creativity can keep those unwanted undies out of landfills.
Ultimately, finding the right fit in intimates is a very personal process. What works for one Target shopper may not work for another. By understanding the store‘s policies and using a bit of savvy, you can curate an underwear drawer that‘s as functional as it is fashionable. Here‘s to happy, comfy shopping!
