CHICAGO, June 4, 2026 — A longer return window can make a major appliance purchase less risky, especially when delivery, installation and product testing do not happen on the same day.
For consumers comparing appliance retailers, return policies can vary widely. Best Buy may be a convenient option for electronics and appliances, but shoppers looking for more time to evaluate a purchase may want to compare policies at Costco and IKEA before checking out.
The difference matters. A refrigerator, dishwasher, washer or range may not show a delivery issue, fit problem or early performance concern until after it is installed and used. That makes the retailer’s return deadline an important part of the buying decision.
Return Windows Vary by Retailer
Best Buy’s standard return period is shorter than some competing retailers. Most products are eligible for return within 15 days for standard customers, while members of My Best Buy Plus and My Best Buy Total receive longer return periods on many purchases.
That policy may work for customers who inspect and test an appliance immediately. However, shoppers who need to coordinate delivery, installation or a contractor visit may prefer a retailer with a longer window.
For appliance buyers, the return policy is not just fine print. It can determine how much time a household has to identify a delivery, fit or performance issue.
Appliance News analysis
Costco and IKEA stand out because their posted return policies give customers more time in many situations, though the details are different at each retailer.
Costco Gives Major Appliance Buyers 90 Days
Costco’s general return policy is known for being broad, but major appliances fall under a specific deadline. The warehouse club allows returns of major appliances within 90 days from the date the customer receives the product.
That appliance category includes many common household purchases, such as refrigerators, washers, dryers, dishwashers, freezers, ranges, cooktops, water heaters and certain microwaves.
For consumers buying a major appliance, Costco’s 90-day period is significantly longer than Best Buy’s standard return window. It may also give households more flexibility when installation is delayed or when an appliance needs to be tested through several normal use cycles.
- ✓ Best Buy: Standard customers generally receive 15 days for most returns, with longer periods for certain paid membership tiers.
- ✓ Costco: Major appliances generally have a 90-day return window from the date of receipt.
- ✓ IKEA: New and unopened products may be returned within 365 days, while opened products may be returned within 180 days with proof of purchase.
IKEA Has One of the Longest Posted Return Policies
IKEA’s policy gives customers up to 365 days to return new and unopened products with proof of purchase. Opened products may be returned within 180 days, also with proof of purchase.
That makes IKEA one of the more flexible national retailers for return timing. Appliance shoppers should still compare product selection, installation options and service terms, because IKEA’s appliance business is often tied to kitchen design and home-furnishing projects rather than a traditional appliance-only showroom.
Consumers should also separate the return period from warranty coverage. A retailer return policy controls whether the store will take back the item. A manufacturer warranty generally covers repair or replacement after the return period ends.
What Appliance Shoppers Should Check First
Before buying a large appliance, shoppers should review the return deadline, proof-of-purchase requirements, delivery inspection rules, packaging requirements and any exclusions that apply to the product category.
Customers should keep receipts, online order confirmations, delivery paperwork and payment records until the return period has passed. These documents can help resolve return or exchange questions more quickly.
The takeaway for appliance buyers is straightforward: Best Buy may be competitive on selection and promotions, but Costco and IKEA can offer more time to return certain appliance-related purchases. The right retailer depends on the appliance, the timing of installation and the buyer’s need for flexibility.
