For the most part, Costco has one of the best return policies around. The beloved warehouse store known for its great deals on bulk items offers a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee on most items. That means you can return just about anything within 90 days if you have the receipt and original packaging. However, there are exceptions to every rule—including this one.
As it turns out, there are a few things that you can’t return to Costco. In addition to some of the most obvious culprits, like rotten food and used underwear, here are a few non-refundable items to be aware of:
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1. Sanitizing wipes
Shoppers were rushing to stock up on many essential items at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic—including sanitizing wipes. Stores were (pun intended) wiped clean of this product, and we're going to bet that there are many homes still stocked with way too many of them right now. However, Costco won't let you return your wipes. But, hey, at least you're set for life!
2. Alcohol and Tabacco
Okay, this one isn't Costco-specific. As it turns out, there are laws in most places that prohibit you from returning alcohol and cigarettes to stores. The one loophole may be to travel to a state that allows this. Just check up on the laws before you give it a shot.
3. Tires
If you purchase some new tires and take even the shortest drive possible, we're sorry to say that Costco won't allow you to return them. This sounds pretty reasonable to us, considering the fact that tires can easily get a little torn up even if they haven't been used for very long. So just be sure you make the right choice when you purchase them!
4. Toilet paper
Toilet paper is another essential that people started stockpiling back in 2020. And, just like sanitizing wipes, Costco won't take your leftovers. But, honestly, that shouldn't be too much of an issue. After all, there will never be a time you won't need toilet paper!
5. Paper towels
Here's another paper product that you won't have much lucky trying to return to Costco. That's right: even if your paper towels are unopened and unused, it's simply against store policy. But think of it this way: if you have a surplus, at least you'll be prepared to handle spill after spill! If you really want 'em off your hands, try donating.
6. Rice
Rice is a staple in many kitchens, so there shouldn't be much of a reason to return it, anyway. But unfortunately for anyone who may want to, Costco won't accept it. If you really don't see yourself working your way through a whole bag, this makes a great non-perishable food to donate.
7. Batteries
Unlike rice, paper towels, and toilet paper, batteries actually do expire. So it makes sense why Costco won't accept your own batteries if you try to return them. Unfortunately, they're also quite tricky to dispose of; you can't just throw them in the trash. Instead, take your unwanted batteries to specialized battery recyclers.
8. Large diamonds
Engagement gone wrong? Yikes! While there are many issues to deal with here, one major bummer is the fact that Costco won't let you return diamonds that are larger than one carat. Anything smaller than this, though, can be returned within 90 days, just like all their other jewelry—but only for store credit.
