Return policy comparison · 2026
Buffy vs IKEA
Policy data verified July 21, 2026 (Buffy) and April 17, 2026 (IKEA)
Buffy
B-
2.9 / 5.0 · Fair
Winner
IKEA
A
4.5 / 5.0 · Excellent
The verdict
IKEA has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Buffy's B- (2.9/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 365-day window (industry-leading) versus 30-day window (industry standard).
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
BuffyIKEA
Return window · worth 2.0
Restocking fee · worth 1.0
Return shipping · worth 1.0
Holiday window · worth 0.5
Transparency · worth 0.5
Key terms side-by-side
| Buffy | IKEA | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 30 days (30-night trial, initiate by phone) | ✓ 365 days (unopened); 180 days (opened) |
| Free returns | — | Yes (in-store free) |
| Restocking fee | — | None |
| Return shipping | — | Buyer pays mail shipping |
| Holiday extension | — | ✓ Not specifically extended |
| Non-returnable | — | Custom countertops, cut fabric, as-is items, plants, food, mattresses (separate 90-day exchange) |
| Watch-out items | — | Mattress 90-day comfort exchange |
Buffy tip
Buffy donates returned comforters to charity rather than reselling them, so don't expect a resale-condition inspection - the main risk is missing the 30-day window since returns are initiated by phone or email rather than an automated portal.
IKEA tip
You CAN return assembled IKEA furniture in-store — no need to disassemble. Mattress gets 90-day exchange policy.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, Buffy or IKEA?
IKEA has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Buffy's B- (2.9/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 365-day window (industry-leading) versus 30-day window (industry standard).
What is Buffy's return window?
Buffy's return window is 30 days (30-night trial, initiate by phone).
What is IKEA's return window?
IKEA's return window is 365 days (unopened); 180 days (opened).
Does Buffy or IKEA offer free returns?
Buffy: see full policy. IKEA: Yes (in-store free).