Return policy comparison · 2026
Lowe's vs Sans
Policy data verified April 17, 2026 (Lowe's) and July 24, 2026 (Sans)
Winner
Lowe's
A
4.5 / 5.0 · Excellent
Sans
B+
3.4 / 5.0 · Good
The verdict
Lowe's has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Sans's B+ (3.4/5.0). It wins 2 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.
Lowe'sSans
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
| Lowe's | Sans | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | ✓ 90 days (365 with Lowe's Advantage Card) | 30 days (risk-free trial) |
| Free returns | Yes | Yes |
| Restocking fee | None generally | None |
| Return shipping | Free mail returns | Free - covered by Sans |
| Holiday extension | ✓ Not specifically extended | None published |
| Non-returnable | Custom cuts, Lowe's Outlet items (ALL final sale), safety equipment used, liquid propane | None published |
| Watch-out items | Major appliances 48 hours after delivery, outdoor power equipment 30 days | — |
Lowe's tip
1-year plant guarantee — bring back dead plants for a full refund. Outlet items are ALL final sale.
Sans tip
Sans backs its air purifiers with a 5-year warranty separate from the 30-day trial, so problems that show up after the return window may still be covered - worth emailing support instead of assuming you're out of luck.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, Lowe's or Sans?
Lowe's has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Sans's B+ (3.4/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 90-day window (above average) versus 30-day window (industry standard).
What is Lowe's's return window?
Lowe's's return window is 90 days (365 with Lowe's Advantage Card).
What is Sans's return window?
Sans's return window is 30 days (risk-free trial).
Does Lowe's or Sans offer free returns?
Lowe's: Yes. Sans: Yes.