my husband tends to remove and throw away the tags before he even tries them on.  So I started to remove the tags my self and put the receipts and tags in the pockets.  Once he got around to trying them on.  That way if they didn't fit and I needed to return them I had all the paperwork needed.  No more unplanned donations.

By Sheila on 11/23/2009 8:49:39 AM

Some really great ideas!!

By Rachel on 11/21/2009 7:57:12 PM

I love your idea. I can't remember how many times I have needed to return something to the store but did not have the receipt or tag because I discarded them to quickly.

By Melissa on 11/10/2009 2:18:22 PM

I use clothespins to keep the receipt attached to the tag while it's hanging in the closet, which also works well with multiple items on the same receipt.  I also keep a coupon caddy for receipts, organized by category, which I keep in the car so I am always prepared!

By Erin on 10/28/2009 2:30:28 PM

I love the idea about saving the tags and putting them with the receipt.  I am determined to be better at this.  I do file my receipts for business purposes, but with the personal one's ....they just end up whereever and then when something breaks or I need to take it back, I can't find the receipt...It's here somewhere (lol)Love all the comments.  Thanks to all for taking the time to post. 

By Shelly on 10/27/2009 8:20:23 AM

I have started returning even the cheapest things that I do not want or can't use.  In this economy every penny counts.

By Rita on 10/26/2009 9:11:56 AM

Great Idea.Most of my returns go directly to my car. So, I can have them when I go to town.  

By PAMELA on 10/25/2009 12:53:43 PM

Thanks for the suggestions on returning items. I frequently misplace receipts. HOpe I ca remember you directions!

By Jane on 10/23/2009 7:54:42 PM

Excellent information. I hope that I can follow directions next time I want to return something. I forget so easily.

By Jane on 10/23/2009 7:51:41 PM

Having worked retail long enough you learn the ins and outs. If the tags fall off most stores will exchange items for the same thing in a different size (Ta-Da the tag is back on) or give you store credit. If it is a factory defect on a current style, such as ripped seam or if it shrinks more then an inch, store should take it back without to much fuss. If they don't ask for the district manager’s phone number and they'll change their tune quickly. Some stores can even look up receipts and reprint them using your credit card. And no matter what be aware of the return policy. I worked for a place which had a 10 day exchange, no returns, and no exceptions policy. I hated telling people there was nothing I could do about it.

By Christine on 10/23/2009 7:47:59 PM

Having a specific place in the house to store your returns is a very good idea, but be careful about taping the receipt to the UPC.  Stores scan the UPC when they process a return.  If you damage the UPC, you'll have a harder time returning the item.  I've never lost a receipt - they all go in an envelope at home, then get moved to my wallet if I need to take it back to the store.  No rooting through the bag if they're all always in the same location.

By Stephanie on 10/23/2009 2:57:11 PM

I always keep tags in an envelope for at least 30 days

By Geraldetta on 10/23/2009 9:58:30 AM

My grandaughter had a habit of always taking the tags off of her clothes before trying them on even though she was told time again, or saying that she liked something and then never wore it, so my solution to that is now when I take her school shopping etc. I have her try every thing on in the stores and I have her show me everything she trys on and she respects my opinion no more returns Brenda

By Brenda on 10/22/2009 8:13:29 PM

Great advice Thanks!

By Antoinette on 10/22/2009 5:48:24 PM

VERY GOOD IDEA!  I HAVE HAD OCCASIONS WHEN I KNEW THE RECIEPT WAS IN THE BAG, BUT FELL OUT ON THE FLOOR BEHIND THE RETURN COUNTER. THIS ALSO HAPPENS WITH COUPONS THAT ARE GIVEN  AT THE CHECKOUT REGISTER. THANK  YOU FOR SUGGESTING THE TAPE TO THE TAGS OR PRODUCT.

By ALICE on 10/22/2009 5:09:36 PM

Wonderful advise thank for the membership

By Darlene on 10/22/2009 12:25:19 AM

When removing tags from clothes, I staple all tags that go with that piece of clothing together and write (in pencil) the initial of the person who it belongs to, along with the date purchased on the tag.  I also write a brief description of the item on the tag.  An example would be:  M101909      blue SSLV swtr    (SSLV is short sleeve).  The tags are then placed in an expandable folder (by month purchased).  The pencil marks can be erased if it needs returned and all tags stay together.  I keep all receipts (I usually pay with a credit card) attached to my credit card statement or in an envelope if paid with cash.  When I need to find a receipt fast, I can just look at the date on the tag to find it.  This has worked very well for me for a long time.  I wash all clothes before wearing them.  I have had clothes that were washed exactly as the label stated and ended up with a problem (hole or something similar) before wearing or within a couple of wearings.  When you spend so much money on the clothes, you want to be able to return them when it is not your fault if something happens to them.  With the tags and receipt, I usually have no problems whatsoever.  If I purchase something electronic, I usually keep the box in the attic with a note attached stating what date it was purchased (at least until the warranty is out.  Doing this with the clothes and other items really does help me find receipts fast. 

By Beverly on 10/21/2009 11:12:06 PM

Cindy,The same thing happened to my daughters jeans (they ripped down the middle inseam) and shirts that got a hole in them after a few washings from American Eagle. I called the 800# to speak to soneone there 1st then I went to the store. The store was reluctant to give me my money back or make an exchange. Once i told them I contcated customer service they changed their mind. By all means take them back. I know their clothes are not cheap!!!Candi

By Candi on 10/21/2009 11:52:09 AM

Yes!  I have learned the hard way about taking the tags off stuff too quickly!  Great tip.  And, if for some reason you can't return it to the store, you can still sell on eBay or the like and you'll get more for it with the tag still on!

By Amy on 10/21/2009 11:30:40 AM

I find this to be good advice especially for kids & men. If everything is right there in the bag it is easier to just put everything back together in the bag & to return it. They cannot say well it was on sale earlier this week & if you paid full price then they don't want to give you the refund. Better to have everything together & make it easier on everyone so you can get other stuff done.

By Graner on 10/21/2009 2:28:53 AM

This is the best advise I have had in a long long time.  I always get stuck with things to return because I put the reciept in a safe place.  So safe even I cannot find them.

By Jacqui on 10/20/2009 11:03:39 PM

Don't forget to also check your receipt for the store's return policy. Some stores have a 30 or 60 day time limit. After that you might not be able to return at all, might have to take store credit, or might get less than you paid for the item.

By Stacey on 10/20/2009 10:18:21 PM

When we purchase large items such as TV, Freezer etc. we tape the receipt to the back of that item so we can find it if we have a problem.

By Victoria on 10/20/2009 7:15:32 PM

I am VERY familiar w/FOLEX.  I used it on some new carpeting a very light beige in color.  I spilled some Koolaid on the carpeting and after MUCH research, found that my best bet was indeed FOLEX.  I was disapppointed that it did NOT remove ALL the stain, but still use FOLEX because it is still the best I have found for carpeting.  I WAS UNAWARE IT WAS SAFE TO USE ON REGULAR FABRIC AS CLOTHING!!!  I am excited to hear from someone who has experienced the safety of it on clothes!Thank you so much for your comment!

By Sue on 10/20/2009 7:15:29 PM

Lynne, I do the same thing.  I staple my tags (from clothing mainly) to my receipt and save it.  AFTER I wash the item to be sure it doesn't do anything "funny" in the washer and/or dryer, I will keep it a while longer and place the buttons that often come with the item in my sewing kit (in the 'button' section).

By Sue on 10/20/2009 7:01:34 PM

thanks for the idea

By LaShonda on 10/20/2009 12:32:09 PM

Theres a product called Folex. It will take out ANY stain you have whether it be on carpet, counters or laundry. Seriously this liquid is magic!  WalMart used to carry it. Now I seem to find it at Lowes or Albertsons.  It's very pricey at Albertsons. About $6 a bottle at Lowes. Try it!  You will soon find it INDEPSENSIBLE~!

By Molly on 10/20/2009 12:27:37 PM

I have a question about returning an item that became damaged after one wearing.  My daughter bought a beautiful sweater, wore it once, washed it on delicate, and a good part of the the neck piece - about 5 inches long - detached from the rest of the sweater.  Should I try to return it or find someplace to repair it?  Of course she doesn't have the receipt.  The same goes from some jeans from American Eagle.  Worn once and they tore completely down the inseam!  Of course, not IN the seam but right next to it!!  I think that's a lost cause.

By Cindy on 10/20/2009 10:19:58 AM

When I haven't worn a new item yet, I staple the receipt to the tags. If I need to return them, I do not have to wonder where did I put the receipt or which store did I but the merchandise from.

By Michelle on 10/19/2009 6:34:47 PM

Put old newspaper inside of trash bin and some baking soda before putting trash bag, this helps eliminates odors.

By NISA on 10/19/2009 1:25:26 PM

When you get a new mattress set, place your receipt and warranty under the mattress!

By Susan on 10/19/2009 9:34:17 AM

very good idea! tanks

By Merline on 10/19/2009 12:13:56 AM

With so many people losing their jobs, you'll find that crime will be (if not already) on the rise.  It has in our part of the country and police are strongly advising not to leave anything in the car whatsoever except items that may be needed for an emergency car repair need (such as jumper cables).  You never know who may be driving in your neighborhood looking for the perfect car break-in even if it's in the garage.  You'd be surprised at how electric doors are getting open according to our area police depts.  Also some merchants are now considering that once the tag is removed the item has been used and is either unreturnable or only returnable for an exchange of the same thing in a different size or equal in price.  You'd best buy only what you truly need and will be using so save yourself any trouble down the road.  Also I've been told that some merchants are now making note of how many return a customer has in a given period.  If too many they do have the option to refuse to accept any more returns by that customer.

By Debbi on 10/18/2009 3:16:29 PM

i like that idea of keep the tags & reicepts together being that what i do. being its alot easier if you have issues. I also liked that goodwill if you missing somethign out of hte game you can return it in 7days

By M on 10/18/2009 10:50:34 AM

Save the tags too!   A store with a particularly liberal policy will often take clothing back with the tags removed IF you still have the original tags.  Lands End has this policy.  I staple the tags to the receipts and keep them in a tupperware container that I clean out quarterly. 

By K J on 10/18/2009 10:40:04 AM

What a great suggestion for me to keep in mind when I make purchases.

By Charlotte Anne on 10/18/2009 2:59:02 AM

very-good tips. Thanks!!

By ALI on 10/17/2009 4:47:54 PM

Great tips.  I always lose my reciepts. 

By Rosalia on 10/16/2009 6:09:02 PM

I'm usually pretty good at keeping receipts for purchases in a special place. But this a great Ideal.Thannks!

By DEBRA on 10/16/2009 3:29:34 PM

I've learned to staple the receipt to the tag, and put it in a folder with all my other receipts.  Then it is easily found if I need to return something to the store.

By Sharon on 10/16/2009 2:28:41 PM

I've used this system to curb unnecessary spending. Sometimes I'm just in the mood to shop but really don't need anything. I'll hit the stores and scout for big sales or deals. I'll be happy with my purchases, but then leave them in the closet in the bag with the receipt for a couple of weeks. More often than not, when I revisit my purchases, I end up taking them back. I pick a day that I'm not it a shopping mood so it's to the service desk and back. It's a little kooky but it keeps my spending in check. And if it's a really good deal for something I still like, I keep it.

By Sharon on 10/16/2009 2:07:50 PM

 I just keep all tags on the clothing and reciept in the bag. If i have to return i do it immediately and just leave the bag with the store. What i do use any bags i have accumulated at home is for my trashcans around the house so i don't have to purchase trash can liners.

By Linda on 10/16/2009 9:23:15 AM

Unfortunately keeping bags around isn't my idea of clutter free (which is a habit of mine).  When I buy something, I  immediately try it on when I get home.  If it doesn't fit it gets immediately put back in my car for a return that same week.  If I like it, I still keep the tag and staple to my receipt.  I keep all and any receipts in a monthly organizer. At the end of the month, we sort through them for tax purposes and file and then throw out the rest!

By LYNNE on 10/15/2009 11:40:20 AM

Most purchases I make that I later need to return are clothing because I do not have time to try items on at the store.  When I get home, I staple the receipt to the price label. If I have more than one item (i.e. 2 shirts, a pair of pants), I simply hang the items together in the closet so all the price labels are in range to staple together.If for some reason, you don't get around to returning the item (i.e. one item isn't worth the trip to the overcrowded mall), take the item to a second hand store. Keep the price label on because second hand items sell for higher prices if the original retail price is still on the garment.

By Anne on 10/15/2009 1:07:04 AM

why didn't I think about this idea? This is a perfect solution for us!

By Chamila on 10/15/2009 12:56:04 AM

I give Minnie Pearl Christmas presents for the family. For those who do not know who she was, she was in the Grand Ole Opry and always wore a hat with a price tag on it. She was so cute.  I also save all sales slips. It's a joke in our house but I find it easier to return the gifts.

By Leona on 10/14/2009 11:58:32 AM

I never remove a tag because sometimes sizes are so different @ my favorite store depending on the designer.  I always try to make the return within 2-3 days.

By Jackie on 10/14/2009 11:49:17 AM

Wonderful Idea. I tape it to sack but like this idea better. THANKS

By Ruby on 10/14/2009 10:30:59 AM

Great idea! I use a a filing system for all my purchases, in fact a 2 drawer filing cabinet. This way a can label all bills, receipts, credit cards, utilities, ect. whether they are paid, need to be paid this has helped alot trying to keep track of our household. I save all receipts just incase I need to return something. Another great thing about saving receipts, when you need proof of purchase to obtain a rebate you may already have purchased the item. But you have to keep them in order or you end up with a paperwork mess if you're not careful.

By JENNIFER on 10/14/2009 10:29:03 AM

That's good advice. I have a bad habit oflosig my receipt. Then whn someting doesn't fit right it is a hassle to take it back!

By Sara on 10/14/2009 9:22:58 AM

Buying meat in bulk or family packages is a smart way to save money.  Sam's Club or Costco have great family packs for smaller prices.  When I get home I divide into smaller ziplock bags.  There is only 3 in my home right now.  So I patty up the hamburger and put 4 burgers to a bag.  Chicken bought in bulk is easily separated into portions that fit my family's needs.  Buying a whole sirloin roast is easily cut-up into steaks, stewmeat and roasts.** cutting meat when it's slightly frozen makes it MUCH easier **

By Staci on 10/14/2009 1:29:22 AM

Put the item in the car, where you can see so you don't forget to return it within the stores specified dates ( a lesson learned!!!)

By ANN on 10/14/2009 12:44:21 AM