Return policy comparison · 2026
IKEA vs Tineco
Policy data verified April 17, 2026 (IKEA) and July 24, 2026 (Tineco)
Winner
IKEA
A
4.5 / 5.0 · Excellent
Tineco
B+
3.4 / 5.0 · Good
The verdict
IKEA has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Tineco's B+ (3.4/5.0). 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.
IKEATineco
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
| IKEA | Tineco | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | ✓ 365 days (unopened); 180 days (opened) | 30 days from purchase |
| Free returns | Yes (in-store free) | ✓ Yes (in-warranty defects) |
| Restocking fee | None | None |
| Return shipping | Buyer pays mail shipping | Free prepaid return label and RMA number provided for in-warranty defect issues; change-of-mind returns are not accepted at all per the policy |
| Holiday extension | ✓ Not specifically extended | None published |
| Non-returnable | Custom countertops, cut fabric, as-is items, plants, food, mattresses (separate 90-day exchange) | Items showing obvious signs of use, damaged or missing parts unless due to company error, items returned after 30 days, sale/discounted items (only regular-priced items qualify) |
| Watch-out items | Mattress 90-day comfort exchange | — |
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, IKEA or Tineco?
IKEA has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Tineco's B+ (3.4/5.0). 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 IKEA's return window?
IKEA's return window is 365 days (unopened); 180 days (opened).
What is Tineco's return window?
Tineco's return window is 30 days from purchase.
Does IKEA or Tineco offer free returns?
IKEA: Yes (in-store free). Tineco: Yes (in-warranty defects).