Go back to the shop as soon as possible, but NOT on the day they start their sale!

Do not remove labels if you think goods might be unsuitable and may have to be returned.

Keep unsuitable goods safe and secure and preferably not in a smoky atmosphere.

Bring the receipt – most shops ask for this when unsuitable goods are being returned.

Check the shops policy. If the shop says its policy is to offer exchanges or credit notes on unsuitable goods – THIS IS REASONABLE.

Know your rights. If you have bought faulty goods you can ask for a refund or a repair or a replacement. Exactly what you are entitled to depends on the particular circumstances of your complaint.

Remember shops do NOT have to give refunds on unsuitable goods unless this was agreed before the goods were bought.

Being told you can bring goods back does NOT necessarily mean the shop will give a refund. It may just be offering an exchange or credit.

If you are returning a gift, remember that you are depending on the shops goodwill, since you do not have the contract with the shop if you did not actually purchase the item yourself.

Different shops have policies on unsuitable goods. This is legal. In law shops do not have to make any offer at all when someone is returning unsuitable goods.

KEEP CALM – DO NOT LOSE YOUR TEMPER! Do not be rude about the item, especially if the person who bought it is with you. Be polite and friendly and expect the assistant to want to help you – they usually do! Smile! It can work wonders.