Make the most of shops' returns policies


Until recently I really hated returning my "shopping mistakes" to the shops. This dated back to my younger days when shops were much more reluctant to refund purchases, and I found the whole process really uncomfortable.

Here are a few tips I've found useful in getting over this sticking point

• Use or wear new purchases as soon as possible - whatever you do, don't stick them at the back of the wardrobe and forget about them.
• Check the receipt for details of how long the shop's returns policy is - it usually is 14-28 days but occasionally shops like M&S offer a generous 90 days.
• Make sure you keep the receipt in a safe place in case you need to return your purchase
• If you have real problems remembering put a note in your diary a few days before the returns policy expires and be sure to use the item by then.
• Keep all packaging and labels on products until you first use them, so it is clear they are unused if you need to take them back
  
• We all make shopping mistakes so don't feel bad about it!
  

And finally - it does get easier. I'm now a dab hand at taking things back - you can be too.

Good luck

Sue