Carter’s Return Policy (2025 Update)
Introduction
Buying clothes for growing kids can be tricky. Sizes change fast, and sometimes that cute outfit just doesn't fit right. If you need to make a return, understanding the Carter return policy is the first step to getting your money back quickly.
Whether you shopped online or visited a store, Carter’s generally offers a family-friendly process. In short, Carter’s allows returns within 90 days for most items, provided they are new and unwashed. However, there are specific rules about return shipping fees and what happens if you lose your receipt.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the Carter refund policy, exchange rules, and how to start your return today.
Overview of Carter’s Return Policy
To help you get started quickly, here is the essential information at a glance:
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Return Window | 90 days from the date of purchase. |
| Item Condition | Must be new, unworn, unwashed, with tags attached. |
| Proof of Purchase | Receipt, packing slip, or order confirmation required for full refund. |
| Refund Method | Original payment method (credit card, PayPal, etc.). |
| No Receipt? | You may receive store credit at the current selling price. |
| Return Shipping | Customers typically pay for return shipping (unless the item is defective). |
| In-Store Returns | Free at any company-owned Carter’s or OshKosh B’gosh store. |
Return Window & Eligibility Requirements
Standard Return Period
The standard return window for Carter’s is 90 days from the original purchase date. This applies to both online orders and in-store purchases in the US and Canada. If you return items after this 90-day period, you may only be eligible for merchandise credit at the current selling price rather than a full refund.
Note: Regional policies may vary. For example, Carter Clothing in Europe generally offers a 30-day return window.
Condition of Items
To qualify for a refund, your items must meet these strict conditions:
- Unworn and Unwashed: Clothes that have been washed or worn cannot be returned.
- Original Tags: Items should have their original tags attached.
- Original Packaging: Sets or multi-packs should be returned with their packaging intact.
Receipt Requirements
Keeping your receipt makes the process much smoother.
- With Receipt: You get a full refund to your original payment method.
- Gift Receipt: You will receive merchandise credit or an exchange.
- No Receipt: Carter’s may look up the transaction or offer an exchange at the item's current selling price.
How to Return Items to Carter’s
You have two main options for returning items: bringing them to a store or mailing them back.
Option 1: In-Store Returns (Free & Fastest)
This is the best way to avoid return shipping fees. You can return both online and in-store purchases to any company-owned Carter’s or OshKosh B’gosh location.
In-Store Return Checklist:
- Gather your unwashed items with tags attached.
- Locate your original receipt, packing slip, or order confirmation email.
- Bring the credit card used for the purchase (if you want a refund to that card).
- Visit the checkout counter for immediate processing.
Option 2: Online Returns by Mail
If you can't get to a store, you can mail your return. Be aware that shipping costs are usually deducted from your refund unless the item arrived damaged or defective.
Steps to Return Online:
- Log in: Go to the official Carter’s website and access your "Order History" or use the Guest Returns tool.
- Select Items: Choose the order and specific items you wish to return.
- Print Label: Generate a prepaid return shipping label. Note that the cost of this label is often deducted from your refund.
- Pack: Place items and the packing slip securely in a box.
- Ship: Drop the package off at the carrier location indicated on the label (usually USPS or FedEx).
Refund Methods & Processing Time
Once Carter’s receives your return, the clock starts ticking on your refund.
- Processing Time: It typically takes up to 10 business days for the warehouse to receive and inspect your return.
- Bank Posting: After Carter’s issues the refund, it may take your bank an additional 3–5 business days to post the funds to your account.
-
Refund Methods:
- Credit/Debit Card: Returned to the same card.
- PayPal/Apple Pay: Refunded to the linked account.
- Gift Cards: Refunded as a new electronic gift card or merchandise credit.
Important: Original shipping and handling fees are generally non-refundable.
Exchange Policy
Need a different size? The Carter exchange policy is straightforward, but it is easiest to do in-store.
- In-Store Exchanges: Simply bring the item and receipt to the store. You can swap it for a different size or color immediately. If the new item is cheaper, you get the difference back.
- Online Exchanges: Direct exchanges via mail are often difficult. It is usually recommended to return the unwanted item for a refund and place a brand-new order for the correct size.
If you do not have a receipt, you may still be able to exchange the item, but you will only receive credit for the item's current selling price, which might be lower than what you originally paid.
Non-Returnable or Restricted Items
Not everything can be returned. To avoid frustration, check this list before heading to the store.
- Worn or Washed Clothing: If it has been through the laundry, it is yours to keep.
- Missing Tags: Items without tags may be refused.
- Clearance/Final Sale: Items marked as "Final Sale" cannot be returned or exchanged.
- Gift Cards: These are non-returnable and cannot be redeemed for cash (except where required by law).
- Underwear: For hygiene reasons, opened underwear packs generally cannot be returned.
Fees, Deductions & Exceptions
While Carter’s is generous with their timeline, there are costs to be aware of.
- Return Shipping Fee: If you use the prepaid label provided by Carter’s for an online return, a fee (typically around $6–$8) is often deducted from your total refund.
- Defective Items: If you received a damaged or incorrect item, contact customer support immediately. In these cases, return shipping fees should be waived.
- Restocking Fees: Carter’s does not typically charge a restocking fee for standard returns.
Holiday & Extended Return Policies
During the busy shopping season, many parents wonder about the Carter’s holiday return policy.
While Carter's does not always explicitly advertise a specific "Holiday Extension" in their standard text, many retailers extend the return window for purchases made in November and December until January.
- Recommendation: If you are buying gifts early (November), keep the gift receipt. If the 90-day window covers you until after Christmas, you are safe.
- Verification: Always ask a store associate or check the website banner during the holiday season for temporary policy changes.
Customer Support & Contact Information
If you have a complicated return or received a defective product, it is best to talk to a human.
- Phone: 888-782-9548 (Consumer Affairs)
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 AM – 9 PM ET.
- Online: Use the "Contact Us" form on the Carter’s website for email support.
- Live Chat: Available on the website during business hours.
For more information on returning fashion items, you might also find our guides on the Fossil return policy, Urban Outfitters return policy, or Depop return policy helpful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I return items to Carter’s without a receipt?
Yes, but it is not guaranteed. If you do not have a receipt, Carter’s may process the return as an exchange or merchandise credit based on the item's current selling price. They may also ask for a valid ID to track your return history.
How long does a refund from Carter’s take?
Once you mail your return, allow up to 10 business days for Carter’s to receive and inspect it. After they process the refund, it may take your bank another few days to show the credit. In-store returns are processed immediately.
Do I have to pay for return shipping?
Usually, yes. If you return an item by mail using their prepaid label, the shipping cost is deducted from your refund. However, if the item is defective or the wrong item was sent, contact support to get the fee waived.
Can I return clearance items?
It depends on the specific item. Items marked "Final Sale" cannot be returned. Standard clearance items may be returnable if they are not marked final sale, but it is best to check your receipt or ask a store associate.
Can I return online orders in-store?
Yes! Returning online orders to a local store is the best way to return items because it is free and you get your refund faster. Be sure to bring your packing slip or order confirmation email.
What if my item is defective?
If your item arrived damaged or has a quality issue (like a broken snap), Carter’s stands by their quality. Contact customer service immediately or bring the item to a store for a full refund or exchange, even if it has been washed (for quality defects).
Is there a time limit for returns?
Yes, the standard time limit is 90 days from the date of purchase. Returns attempted after 90 days may be refused or only eligible for merchandise credit at the current selling price.
Can I return a gift?
Yes. If you have a gift receipt, you will receive merchandise credit or an exchange. If you do not have a gift receipt, the store may still offer credit at the current selling price.
Disclaimer: Return policies may change at any time and can vary by location. Always confirm details on the official Carter’s website or with your local store. Information verified November 2025.
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