Return policy comparison · 2026
H&M vs Zara
Policy data verified April 17, 2026 by the Thrifle team
H&M
B+
3.4 / 5.0 · Good
Zara
B+
3.4 / 5.0 · Good
The verdict
H&M and Zara 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.
H&MZara
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
| H&M | Zara | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 30 days | 30 days |
| Free returns | Yes (in-store) | Yes (in-store) |
| Restocking fee | None | None |
| Return shipping | $5.99 deducted for mail | $4.95 per item for mail |
| Holiday extension | Not specifically extended | Not specifically extended |
| Non-returnable | Underwear, swimwear (broken seal), opened beauty, gift cards, face masks, altered items | Underwear/swimwear without hygiene seal, pierced jewelry, opened cosmetics/perfume |
| Watch-out items | Standard 30-day window | Sale items: same 30 days but clearance may be stricter |
H&M tip
Return in-store for free — mail deducts $5.99 from refund. H&M Member purchases tracked automatically in app.
Zara tip
Return in-store for free — mail returns cost $4.95 PER ITEM which adds up fast on hauls.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, H&M or Zara?
H&M and Zara 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 H&M's return window?
H&M's return window is 30 days.
What is Zara's return window?
Zara's return window is 30 days.
Does H&M or Zara offer free returns?
H&M: Yes (in-store). Zara: Yes (in-store).