Return policy comparison · 2026
DSW vs Sanctuary
Policy data verified April 17, 2026 (DSW) and July 24, 2026 (Sanctuary)
Winner
DSW
A
4.5 / 5.0 · Excellent
Sanctuary
A-
3.9 / 5.0 · Very Good
The verdict
DSW has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Sanctuary's A- (3.9/5.0). It wins 1 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 90-day window (above average) versus 30-day window (industry standard).
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
DSWSanctuary
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
| DSW | Sanctuary | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | ✓ 90 days | 30 days (60 days for holiday purchases) |
| Free returns | Yes (in-store) | Yes (exchanges & store credit only) |
| Restocking fee | None | None |
| Return shipping | Free mail returns for VIP members | Free for exchanges or store credit; refunds to original payment require customer-paid shipping unless the $1.98 shipping protection was purchased at checkout |
| Holiday extension | Yes (holiday extension) | Orders placed between November 15 and January 1 get an extended 60-day return window |
| Non-returnable | Final sale items, worn shoes showing significant use | All final sale items, worn or soiled swimwear (sanitary liner must be intact), items bought through resellers or other retailers |
| Watch-out items | Standard 90-day window | — |
DSW tip
VIP members tracked automatically. Shoes can be lightly worn.
Sanctuary tip
Skip the refund route if you're on the fence - opting for an exchange or store credit gets you a free return label, while a refund to your card means paying return shipping yourself unless you bought the $1.98 protection add-on.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, DSW or Sanctuary?
DSW has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Sanctuary's A- (3.9/5.0). It wins 1 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 90-day window (above average) versus 30-day window (industry standard).
What is DSW's return window?
DSW's return window is 90 days.
What is Sanctuary's return window?
Sanctuary's return window is 30 days (60 days for holiday purchases).
Does DSW or Sanctuary offer free returns?
DSW: Yes (in-store). Sanctuary: Yes (exchanges & store credit only).