Not sure if you can return your IKEA purchase?
Can you return an item to IKEA? Check eligibility first
IKEA Australia provides one of the most generous return policies in retail, with a 365-day window to return products if you change your mind. Key eligibility requirements include:
- 365-Day Return Window: You can return items within one full year of purchase (even if they’ve been assembled) for a full refund.
- Proof of Purchase: You’ll need your original receipt or order confirmation. Lost receipts aren’t always a problem, IKEA can typically locate your purchase using transaction details or your IKEA Family account.
- Condition of Item: Items should be unused, clean, and in resalable condition. Assembled items are accepted as long as they're undamaged and complete.
- Place of Purchase: Returns can be processed at any IKEA Australia store, regardless of which Australian store or online channel the purchase was from (overseas purchases are excluded).
- Exclusions & Special Cases: Food, beverages, and custom-made products typically can't be returned. Mattresses have their own 365-day exchange program.
How to return an item to IKEA
Returning an IKEA item is simple and flexible:
- In-Store Returns: Bring the item and proof of purchase to the Returns desk at any Australian IKEA store. To speed things up, bring the payment card used.
- Express Returns: Use IKEA’s online Express Return form beforehand for a quicker in-store process. You'll receive a QR code/barcode via email or SMS.
- Home Collection (Pickup): If you can't reach a store or have bulky items, schedule a home pickup via IKEA’s customer support. Fees apply for change-of-mind returns. Faulty item pickups are free.
- Parcel Drop-Off Returns: For smaller items (under 22kg), use IKEA's partnered drop-off points (where available, e.g., NSW metro areas) for a flat fee of $9, deducted from your refund.
IKEA return timeframes and item conditions
- 365-Day Limit: IKEA’s generous return period gives you one full year to change your mind. Applicable for online and in-store purchases.
- Product Condition: Returned items should ideally be in like-new condition, complete and unmodified. Slightly assembled products are acceptable if clean and intact. IKEA may offer partial refunds for items showing excessive wear or modifications.
- Proof of Purchase & Packaging: Original packaging and receipts streamline the process, but IKEA can often locate purchase details digitally if the receipt is lost.
- Refund Processing Time: In-store refunds are typically initiated immediately, appearing in your account within 2–5 business days. Pick-up returns may take up to 14 days from collection.
Who pays for IKEA return shipping?
- In-Store Returns (Free): Returning items directly to a store is always free of charge.
- Home Collection (Pickup) Fees: For change-of-mind returns picked up from your home, IKEA charges approximately the same fee as your original delivery cost. This amount will be deducted from your refund.
- Faulty Item Returns: If the item is defective, damaged, or incorrect, IKEA covers all return costs, no fees apply.
- Parcel Drop-off (Flat Fee): Smaller items returned via drop-off points incur a $9 flat fee deducted from your refund.
IKEA refunds after a return - how and when you’ll get your money back
- Refund Methods: Refunds are credited back to your original payment method (credit/debit cards, PayPal, or gift cards). Cash/EFTPOS purchases usually get cash or debit card refunds on the spot.
- IKEA Refund Card: Issued in rare scenarios, such as courtesy returns without receipts or if the original payment method can't be refunded directly.
- Processing Time: Refunds initiated at stores typically appear in your account within days. Online or home-collection returns can take up to 14 days post-collection. IKEA sends a refund confirmation by email or provides a receipt if in-store.
- Partial Refunds & Delivery Fees: Delivery fees are usually non-refundable unless the entire order is returned soon after purchase.
IKEA cases submitted through Ajust
I ordered storage drawers from IKEA but when my order arrived, they were missing. I needed them to organise my space and the delay has disrupted my plans and caused a lot of frustration. I just want the missing drawers sent to me so I can finish setting up properly. - Will
I bought a sofa from IKEA that after just a few months was already defective, with wrinkled cushions, sagging support and creases on the arms. It looked nothing like the one I saw in-store. I had to request its removal and a full refund to resolve the issue. - Mark
Customer experiences with IKEA returns
Smooth Exchanges: Customers have reported easy replacements even for complex situations, like receiving replacement items free of charge, without needing to return original products.
Opened Items Accepted: Customers in Australia regularly highlight IKEA’s acceptance of opened and assembled items, provided they're in good condition, as highly convenient.
Lost Receipt Assistance: IKEA frequently assists customers who’ve lost their receipts by finding the transaction in their system.
Official IKEA Returns Resources & Links
- IKEA Australia – Returns & Exchanges: Official return policy details, including 365-day criteria and return options.
- Express Returns Form: Pre-register your return online for faster in-store processing.
- IKEA Customer Support: Contact IKEA directly for arranging pickups or other questions.
- Damaged Items Claim Form: Report and resolve issues with damaged or incomplete items.
IKEA Return FAQs
Can I return an assembled item to IKEA Australia?
Yes, IKEA accepts assembled items within 365 days if they’re clean, undamaged, and complete. This flexible policy helps you shop confidently without worrying about setup. If your receipt is missing, IKEA can often find the purchase using your IKEA Family account or payment details.
Does IKEA charge for home pickup returns?
Yes, IKEA charges a fee for change-of-mind home pickup returns, usually equal to your original delivery cost. However, if the item is faulty or incorrect, pickup is free. This ensures you don’t pay for mistakes that aren’t your fault.
How long do IKEA refunds take after returning an item?
IKEA refunds typically take 2–5 business days for in-store returns and up to 14 days for home pickups. Refunds go back to your original payment method, with IKEA sending a confirmation once processed.
What items can’t I return to IKEA Australia?
You generally can’t return food, beverages, or custom-made products. Mattresses have a separate 365-day exchange program, allowing you to swap for another if unsatisfied. Always check the exclusions before returning to save time.
Every day you wait, your refund gets harder.
Don’t let the return window close. Let’s check if you’re still covered.