Return policy comparison · 2026
Homecourt vs IKEA
Policy data verified July 24, 2026 (Homecourt) and April 17, 2026 (IKEA)
Homecourt
C+
2.4 / 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 Homecourt's C+ (2.4/5.0). It wins 3 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.
HomecourtIKEA
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
| Homecourt | IKEA | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 30 days (sealed, unopened) | ✓ 365 days (unopened); 180 days (opened) |
| Free returns | No - fee deducted | ✓ Yes (in-store free) |
| Restocking fee | None published | None |
| Return shipping | Not specified; shipping costs are non-refundable and not eligible for store credit | Buyer pays mail shipping |
| Holiday extension | None published | ✓ Not specifically extended |
| Non-returnable | Opened products (eligible for a one-time complimentary exchange or store credit instead of a refund) | Custom countertops, cut fabric, as-is items, plants, food, mattresses (separate 90-day exchange) |
| Watch-out items | — | Mattress 90-day comfort exchange |
Homecourt tip
Already lit the candle or opened the diffuser? You're not getting a refund, but you do get one free exchange for a different scent or store credit — so if you're unsure about a scent, that's your safety net, not a cash-back return.
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, Homecourt or IKEA?
IKEA has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Homecourt's C+ (2.4/5.0). It wins 3 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 365-day window (industry-leading) versus 30-day window (industry standard).
What is Homecourt's return window?
Homecourt's return window is 30 days (sealed, unopened).
What is IKEA's return window?
IKEA's return window is 365 days (unopened); 180 days (opened).
Does Homecourt or IKEA offer free returns?
Homecourt: No - fee deducted. IKEA: Yes (in-store free).