Costco Products You Can't Return

Shoppers Leave a Costco Store in Trafford, Manchester, England

Anthony Devlin/Stringer/Getty Images News/Getty Images Europe

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Shoppers Leave a Costco Store in Trafford, Manchester, England
Anthony Devlin/Stringer/Getty Images News/Getty Images Europe

No Take Backs

Costco has been known to accept returns of almost any item, no receipt required, because of their "Risk-Free 100% Satisfaction Guarantee" policy. The exceptions generally apply to alcohol and, in some cases, prescription medications, which are typically prohibited to be returned by law, or fast-wearing items that have a limited warranty. But the hoarding sprees inspired by the pandemic have caused Costco to reevaluate. Here is what you can no longer return. (Not a Costco member? You can apply here.)


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Kirkland Signature Bath Tissue, 2-Ply 30 Rolls
Costco

Toilet Paper

That's right, if you or your paranoid in-law have been hoarding toilet paper from Costco, don't even consider returning it. On the bright side, you may never have to wrestle those bulky packages home again. And you could always TP a neighbor's house to vent your frustration.


Related: The Top Deals at Costco Right Now

Kirkland Signature Create-a-Size Paper Towels, 2-Ply 12-Count
Costco

Paper Towels

Fortunately for those with a paper towel fortress in their basements, this commodity will never really expire, but we can't comment on the structural integrity of the fortress. We suppose they could always try selling a few packs on eBay or in a garage sale.


Related: Costco Mistakes That Could Cost You

Royal Basmati Rice, 20 lbs
Costco
Kirkland Signature Bottled Water 16.9 fl oz., 40-Count
Costco

Water

We all have those images of grocery store shelves devoid of water and other living essentials. Hopefully this policy from Costco will prevent further hoarding of necessities that we all need. Or, you could always buy a Brita pitcher

 
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Purell Hand Sanitizing Wipes, 100 Wipes
Costco

Sanitizing Wipes

The demand for sanitizing wipes skyrocketed with the pandemic, leaving supply in the dust. We're hoping that the folks who stocked up on these wipes were mailing them out to friends and family.


Related: The Big Differences Between Costco and Costco.com

Lysol Disinfectant Spray Crisp Linen, 19 oz. 3-Count
Costco
Neutrogena Rainbath Shower Gel, 40 fl oz.
Costco

Soap

Soap hoarders are just watching their money go down the drain, because Costco won't redeem this item anytime soon. But what better time to enjoy a soothing bubble bath?

Costco Shopper with Cart Filled with Items in Parking Lot
hapabapa/istockphoto

Are There Workarounds?

It looks like Costco is standing strong for the time being on these non-refundable items, so while you could try making a scene with the manager, or try to explain how much toilet paper you have in your basement, it might be better to try to get rid of it by other means. Who knows, with inflation sending prices skyward, you might even be able sell it at a higher price than you paid.


Related: Things You Probably Didn't Know About Costco

Samsung 55" TU700D Series 4K UHD LED LCD TV
Costco

Electronics

After 90 days, Costco will not take electronics back, but that gives the buyer just enough time to wait for the new-and-improved version to come out. That's a pretty good deal if you are trying to assess what size TV to get, or what sound system works best in your home.


Related: I Shopped at Costco for the First Time and This Is What I Learned

Pringles Potato Chips Original, 5.26 oz. 14-Count
Costco
Far Niente 3 Bottle Wine Assortment 750 ml 3-Pack
Costco

Alcohol and Tobacco

Costco would if Costco could, but in most places, it is illegal to return alcohol and tobacco where it was purchased. Now, if the buyer is looking to travel, they may be able to return those stogies after crossing a few state lines. 


Related: The Best Costco-Brand Liquors to Buy — and Which to Leave on the Shelf


Sponsored: Find a Qualified Financial Adviser


Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn't have to be hard. SmartAsset's free tool matches you with up to 3 fiduciary financial advisers in your area in 5 minutes.


Each adviser has been vetted by SmartAsset and is held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests. If you're ready to be matched with local advisers that can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.