Return policy comparison · 2026
DAVIDsTEA vs Kroger
Policy data verified July 24, 2026 (DAVIDsTEA) and April 17, 2026 (Kroger)
DAVIDsTEA
B+
3.4 / 5.0 · Good
Kroger
B+
3.4 / 5.0 · Good
The verdict
DAVIDsTEA and Kroger are in a dead heat: both grade B+ (3.4/5.0) on Thrifle's five-axis return-policy scale. Pick by what you buy: the tie-breakers live in the fine print below.
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
DAVIDsTEAKroger
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
| DAVIDsTEA | Kroger | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 30 days | 30 days (varies by product) |
| Free returns | ✓ In-store only | Mostly in-store only |
| Restocking fee | None published | None |
| Return shipping | Online: fill out a return form within 30 days; return shipping cost for mail-in isn't specified. In-store: bring item and receipt to any location for free exchange or refund. | N/A (most returns in-store) |
| Holiday extension | — | ✓ Not specifically extended |
| Non-returnable | Gift cards, promotional items, clearance items (all final sale); online purchases cannot be returned to physical stores | Alcohol (most states), tobacco, prescription meds, customized items, gift cards |
| Watch-out items | — | Perishables 7 days, electronics 15 days |
DAVIDsTEA tip
If your original card is expired or no longer valid, DAVIDsTEA refunds you as a store gift card instead of cash — worth using a card you still have on hand if there's any chance you'll return something.
Kroger tip
Bring receipt and item to customer service. Online orders may have different rules — check specific Kroger banner (Ralph's, Fred Meyer, etc.)
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, DAVIDsTEA or Kroger?
DAVIDsTEA and Kroger are in a dead heat: both grade B+ (3.4/5.0) on Thrifle's five-axis return-policy scale. Pick by what you buy: the tie-breakers live in the fine print below.
What is DAVIDsTEA's return window?
DAVIDsTEA's return window is 30 days.
What is Kroger's return window?
Kroger's return window is 30 days (varies by product).
Does DAVIDsTEA or Kroger offer free returns?
DAVIDsTEA: In-store only. Kroger: Mostly in-store only.