A growing trend among retailers is a “keep it” policy which allows customers to keep items they try to return. This often happens when the cost of processing and restocking the item is more than its value or if the product is unlikely to be resold. This customer-friendly practice serves two purposes: first, it improves customer satisfaction and loyalty, and second, it cuts operational costs for the retailer. Below is a breakdown of the 9 major retailers who allow customers to keep some items they try to return along with some personal experiences on each.

PRO TIP: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION TO YOUR ADVANTAGE

If you try and “game the return system” to get free stuff, you’re gonna be disappointed and probably get banned from future returns with most of these retailers.

Instead, use this list when doing price comparisons. For example, if something you’re going to buy is the same price at XYZ Store as it is with one of the below retailers, then buy from one of these stores that often lets you keep returns. I feel this is the secret sauce and then when they let you “keep it” it’s just icing on the cake.

1. Amazon

Amazon has become almost synonymous with convenience, and that extends to its return policies.

If you’ve ever returned a low-cost or bulky item to Amazon, you might have encountered this policy.

For inexpensive items, particularly those that would be costly for Amazon to ship back and restock, they may simply refund your money and tell you to keep the product.

Why Does Amazon Do This?

Amazon handles millions of returns every year.

For lower-cost items like cheap electronics, household items, or apparel, it sometimes makes more financial sense for Amazon to let you keep the product rather than deal with the cost of shipping and restocking.

Examples of items customers have been asked to keep:

– Low-value electronics like earbuds, phone accessories, or chargers. Think of $20 or less as the sweet spot.

– Household items such as organizers, kitchen gadgets, or decor.

– Some apparel items, especially if they are low cost and lightweight.

This policy isn’t applied across the board but is more likely when the cost of the return exceeds the value of the product.

RAY-BAN SUNGLASSES FROM AMAZON

Must recently, I had Amazon tell me to keep a pair of $150 Ray-Ban sunglasses that they sent me that were clearly previously opened. While the glasses themselves were in great shape, the box had been tampered with and opened.

They actually sent me a new pair and told me to keep the ones they had already sent me. I’m guessing they did this because they’d have to sell them to a Amazon salvage store for pennies on the dollar.

See Also: The BEST Store Return Policies in the Known Universe

2. Walmart

As one of the world’s largest retailers, Walmart also offers a fairly generous return policy and has been known to let customers keep inexpensive or bulky items after requesting a return.

They actually use AI to determine if it’s worth it for you to actually return the item which I found interesting.

Why Does Walmart Allow Customers to Keep Some Returned Items?

Walmart handles an enormous amount of returns, and like Amazon, they assess the cost-benefit of accepting an item back.

For inexpensive items that may be difficult to resell, it’s more cost-effective for Walmart to let the customer keep the product rather than pay for return shipping and then restock it.

Walmart items customers have been told to keep:

– Small kitchen appliances like blenders or toasters

– Apparel and accessories

– Low-cost electronics

– Toys and other inexpensive household items

– Car batteries (for safety reasons)

– Large bulky items that cost less than $20.

– Food items like meats, bakery products, and dairy. If these spoil before the best-by date they’ll give you your money back and tell you to keep it.

Also, keep in mind that Walmart’s decision may depend on whether the product was shipped from their warehouse or sold through a third-party marketplace seller.

A WORD OF WARNING FROM WALMART

The Walmart app is notorious for letting you keep items you try to return. But if you try and scam the system, be aware that they’re tracking your returns and if you reach a certain dollar amount you’re account will be flagged and you’ll be told you have to take all future returns back to a Walmart location. When I asked an assistant store manager what the dollar amount was they said they could not let that become public knowledge.

3. Target

Target is another retailer with an emphasis on customer satisfaction, and their return policy is well-regarded for being flexible.

In certain situations, Target will allow customers to keep items instead of going through the process of returning them.

How Target Decides to Let You Keep a Product

Target uses a case-by-case approach when deciding whether to ask a customer to return an item or to let them keep it.

Factors such as the item’s value, shipping costs, and the likelihood of reselling the item all play a role in this decision.

Similar to other retailers, this policy is more common for lower-cost or bulky items.

Common items that Target tells shoppers to keep:

– Low-cost home goods

– Apparel and footwear

– Baby items like toys or clothing

– Small electronics

– Opened food or perishables

– Opened beauty products

Target has streamlined its returns process through the Target app, making it easy for customers to initiate returns, and sometimes customers will be given the option to keep the item when the cost to process the return is too high.

See Also: The Stores Famous for Reducing Prices Near Expiration Dates

4. Chewy

Chewy, an online retailer for pet products, has made a name for itself with exceptional customer service.

Their customer-first approach includes being lenient with returns.

In many cases, Chewy has been known to issue a refund and allow customers to keep the item, particularly if it’s food or a product that might not be resold due to health and safety reasons.

Why Chewy Lets You Keep Some Products

Chewy specializes in pet products, which often have strict regulations about reselling, especially when it comes to food and consumables.

If a customer is unhappy with a product or it arrives damaged, Chewy will often refund the purchase without asking for the item back, particularly if returning the item isn’t feasible for resale or restocking.

Items Chewy customers are often allowed to keep:

– Pet food

– Pet toys

– Bedding and accessories

– Small pet care items

In cases where customers are allowed to keep the product, Chewy often encourages them to donate the item to a local shelter, further enhancing their reputation as a customer- and community-focused company.

WRONG DOG FOOD SENT

Earlier this year, our husky seemed to be loosing weight and not eating her dry kibble so I ordered some wet food from Chewy to mix in with her dry food. They sent me the wrong food for whatever reason.

I contacted them via live chat and they apologized profusely and sent me the correct food. They then told me to keep the food and donate it to a shelter or give it to a friend with a dog.

5. Wayfair

Wayfair, the online home goods and furniture retailer, deals with large, heavy, and sometimes low-cost items, making returns more complicated.

Because of the nature of their products, Wayfair is another retailer known for occasionally allowing customers to keep items they wish to return.

Why Wayfair Lets You Keep Some Returns

Furniture and home decor can be heavy, expensive to ship, and difficult to restock.

Wayfair often works with third-party sellers, and if an item is damaged or not as expected, it may not be worth the logistical cost of processing the return.

Also, for lower-cost items, especially those that are hard to ship or resell, Wayfair may let customers keep them.

Examples of items people have been asked to keep:

– Home decor like rugs, curtains, or small furniture

– Kitchen items like dining sets or cookware

– Lighting fixtures

– Bedding and linens

Wayfair’s flexible return policy is intended to keep customers happy, especially when shopping online for large items.

See Also: All The HIGH Quality Store Brands Made By Name Brands

6. Zappos

Zappos is known for its exceptional customer service and quite liberal return policy.

They focus on shoes and apparel, and in some cases, they have been known to let customers keep products when they aren’t satisfied.

Why Zappos Chooses to Let You Keep Certain Products

Zappos is part of the Amazon family, and like its parent company, they emphasize customer satisfaction.

Shipping shoes and apparel back and forth can become costly, and in cases where the item is inexpensive or can’t easily be resold, Zappos may decide it’s more efficient to let customers keep the product.

Items Zappos has let customers keep:

– Low-cost shoes and sandals

– Small accessories like belts or hats

– Apparel items like shirts or pants

The value of the item and whether it is likely to be resold are important factors in Zappos’ decision to allow customers to keep products after attempting to return them.

ZAPPOS LET ME KEEP HIKING SHOES

About a year ago, I bought a pair of hiking shoes from Zappos and when they showed up they were visibly used and had scuff marks on the soles. After a quick live chat session with Zappos they told me to keep the shoes as they were being discontinued and gave me an instant refund.

7. Costco

Costco is known for its generous return policy, which allows customers to return almost anything at any time.

While they don’t often let customers keep items they attempt to return in-store, it happens somewhat often when shopping at Costco.com.

In particular, it happens with lower-cost perishables as well as bulk items, where it’s WAY cheaper for Costco to let the customer keep the product.

Why Costco Might Let You Keep a Product

Costco operates on a membership-based model, and part of their customer service ethos is to ensure members feel valued.

If an item is damaged or faulty and the cost of returning it is high, Costco may offer a refund and allow the customer to keep the product.

Common items customers have been asked to keep:

– Bulk household goods

– Small electronics

– Low-cost apparel

– Kitchen items and home goods

Costco’s decision to allow customers to keep an item typically hinges on the cost of shipping and the condition of the product.

THIS WORKS ONLY WITH COSTCO.COM

I was surprised that Costco made this article UNTIL I started talking to several Costco members. Turns out this happens fairly often when shopping at Costco.com. Online items that they were told to keep include cheese, deli items, and even gift baskets.

See Also: How To Find a Costco Return Store and Save BIG

8. Kohl’s

Kohl’s is another retailer that offers easy returns, including a convenient partnership with Amazon that allows customers to return Amazon products at Kohl’s stores.

While Kohl’s return policy is fairly standard, there have been instances where customers are allowed to keep products they wish to return.

When Kohl’s Might Let You Keep a Product

Kohl’s tends to allow customers to keep items that are inexpensive or difficult to restock.

Like other retailers, they weigh the costs of shipping and restocking versus the value of the product.

For low-cost items, it’s sometimes more practical to let customers keep the product.

Examples of items Kohl’s has let customers keep:

– Inexpensive apparel and footwear

– Small home goods like candles or picture frames

– Low-cost electronics

– Kitchenware

– Damaged items that it’s not worth paying the return shipping charges on.

9. Home Depot

Home Depot, known for selling home improvement products, also faces challenges with returns, especially for large, bulky, or custom items.

In some cases, Home Depot has allowed customers to keep items they attempted to return.

Why Home Depot Might Let You Keep a Product

If an item is damaged or if the cost of shipping and handling is too high, Home Depot may issue a refund and allow the customer to keep the item.

This is especially common with bulky items like furniture, storage containers, or small appliances.

Items customers have been asked to keep:

– Furniture

– Lighting fixtures

– Small appliances

– Garden tools

– Large storage containers like Rubbermaid and Lifetime products.

Home Depot’s decision to allow customers to keep items they try to return is usually based on logistics and costs.

While not all retailers have a blanket policy allowing customers to keep items they try to return, many companies have recognized the value of doing so in certain cases.

It’s a cost-saving measure for businesses, but also a way to build customer loyalty by offering hassle-free resolutions.

BONUS: Shein is Starting To Do This Too

In recent months, I’ve been hearing from Shein shoppers telling me that they let them keep stuff they tried to return as well.

While Shein is a legit online clothing company, there’s no arguing the fact that their clothing is pretty cheap and not made to hold up.

With that said, it makes sense that they don’t want to pay the return shipping costs all the way to China.

So they’ll let you keep it instead. You can keep it, donate it, or put it on your dog.

Ask the Reader: What other stores have let you keep stuff and still refunded your money? Let me know so I can research them and potentially add them to this article.

By Kyle James

There’s a world of hidden treasures waiting for you, lurking right behind those shiny, perfectly arranged grocery shelves of pristine products. You know the ones—the items that scream, “I’m fresh! I’m new! I’m the trendy choice!” But savvy shoppers like us aren’t fooled. We know the real goldmine is in the markdown sections, where items tiptoe toward their best-by dates, just waiting for someone brave (and thrifty) enough to snatch them up.

Think of it like an adventurous treasure hunt, but instead of buried chests filled with doubloons, we’re talking about half-priced yogurt, steaks on clearance, and cheese that’s been “aged” just a bit more than usual.

So grab your metaphorical treasure map and let’s dive into this uncharted world of marked-down goodies before they expire—without your budget expiring first.

The “Best-Before” Mirage: What Do Those Dates Even Mean?

Before we start sniffing around for discounts, let’s address the elephant in the room: Best-by Dates.

Spoiler alert—they’re not as final as they seem.

The truth is, “best-by” doesn’t mean “bad-after”.

It’s more like, “Hey, we can’t guarantee this will taste as awesome after this date, but you probably won’t die”.

Most products, especially non-perishables like crackers, cereal, and canned goods, are still perfectly fine to consume past their best-by date.

They may lose a bit of their peak freshness, but let’s be real—how many times have you eaten a slightly stale cookie and thought, “Meh, still pretty good?”

USE BY vs. BEST BY DATES

When it comes to “Use By” versus “Best By” dates, keep in mind that Use By has to do with safety and Best By is quality related. Do NOT ignore Use By dates when it has to do with things like infant formula and meats. Best By is much more open-ended and has to do with freshness, quality, and flavor.

The Stores You Should Be Stalking for Markdowns

Now that we’ve cracked the best-by code, let’s get to the fun part—shopping.

Some grocery stores like ALDI simply sell meats, breads, and produce to quickly to have markdowns.

Other stores like Safeway made it a policy to STOP doing markdowns because shoppers were moving clearance stickers to full-priced items.

With that said, below are the stores that are the Meccas of markdowns when it comes to nearly-expired food.

See Also: The Best Fast Food Dupes That’ll Save You Big

1. Target: Bullseye for Deals

Yes, that Target. It’s not just the place you go for cute throw pillows, a new lamp you didn’t need, and five dollar coffees from the Starbucks at the entrance.

Target also has an impressive collection of markdowns in its grocery section.

As the days tick closer to those best-by dates, Target employees start slapping those sweet, sweet yellow and red clearance stickers on everything from refrigerated items to dry goods.

You’ll find markdowns on dairy, bread, and meat.

PRO TIP: MEATS AT TARGET

I had a Target employee tell me that they start marking down meats by 25% 2-3 days before the “Use/Freeze By”. Then on the day before this date, they mark meats down by 50%. Use this information to time your purchases and stock up your freezer on the cheap.

And if you’re lucky, you might even stumble upon some fancy deli items or snacks that are still perfectly fine but “too close” to their best-by date for full price.

A word of warning: Prepare yourself mentally. Those clearance stickers are going to be your new obsession.

You’ll start scanning every aisle like an undercover detective, hunting for the next discount.

See Also: How To Find a Target Salvage Store and Save Huge

2. Walmart: Low Prices—and Even Lower Markdowns

Walmart is known for its everyday low prices, but they also have a not-so-secret markdown section for items nearing their expiration.

This is especially true in the meat, bakery, and dairy sections, where they want to move inventory fast before it technically “expires” (though, again, it’s still safe for you to buy!).

PRO TIP

I had a Walmart employee tell me that they are done with their daily markdowns by 8 a.m., so shopping between 8 – 9 a.m. will give you first dibs on meats and bakery item deals. Look for marked down bakery items in a separate “markdown section” while meats that have been marked down are mixed in with the full priced stuff.

While Walmart doesn’t have as many unique or gourmet items as Grocery Outlet or Target, they’re fantastic for basic groceries like milk, eggs, and bread.

Plus, if you time your trips right, you can score some hefty discounts on family-sized packs of meat, perfect for stocking up and freezing for later.

If you’re really looking to save, keep an eye out for that sneaky little corner where all the baked goods go before they wave goodbye.

You could walk out with enough discounted donuts and muffins to keep your coworkers fat and happy for a week.

3. Trader Joe’s: Yes, They Discount Too

Trader Joe’s might seem too cool for markdowns, but guess what? Even they like to clean house when items approach their best-by dates.

While they don’t typically have a specific clearance section, savvy shoppers know to look for items with reduced prices as they get close to their expiration.

The best part? You’re not sacrificing quality. TJ’s markdowns mean you can get your hands on those organic almond butters, fancy hummus varieties, and vegan cheeses for a fraction of the price.

PRO TIP

The flowers at Trader Joe’s sometimes get marked down too. So not only can you grab dinner for cheap, but you can also pick up a bouquet for yourself because you, my friend, deserve it. Or for someone special, that works too of course.

See Also: Trader Joe’s Employees Tell Me Their Best Buys

4. Whole Foods: For the Fancy Frugal Shopper

Okay, hear me out. Whole Foods isn’t exactly known for its low prices.

In fact, most of us associate it with spending way too much on kombucha and artisanal cheeses.

But for the deal hunters, there’s a secret realm here, too.

Whole Foods tends to discount its fresh items—like meats, seafood, and bakery products—when they get close to their best-by dates.

Yes, it’s true, you can eat like a health-conscious billionaire without spending like one.

And with Amazon Prime members getting an extra 10% off sales items, it feels like they’re practically giving this stuff away. (Okay, maybe not giving it away, but at least you won’t need to sell a kidney to afford groceries this week.)

PRO TIP: ALL ABOUT WEDNESDAYS

I had a friendly Whole Foods employee tell me Wednesday is consistently the very best day to shop. Not only is the store less crowded than weekends, but it’s when they start their new weekly sales cycle. So you’ll be able to take advantage of new items and new sales before anyone else and BEFORE they sell out of the really good deals.

5. Winco Foods: Savings in 10 U.S. States

Unfortunately, Winco Foods is only located in 10 western states, but I HAD to add them to my list as I shop their regularly.

Make the Green Tags at Winco your best friend as those are the products that have begun their markdown schedule.

You’ll find them mainly on breads, meats, and some produce items.

If they don’t sell out, the tags will go to RED which means “Extreme Savings” and is the best deals you’re going to find in the store.

Great time to stock up and put meats and bread in the freezer for later use.

PRO TIP: SHOP EARLY AT WINCO

Winco stores are open 24 hours, so SHOP EARLY in the morning. The earlier the better as you’ll have a quiet store, and more importantly, first dibs on new markdowns as those tend to get added very early in the morning and are often all snatched up by mid-afternoon.

See Also: Shop on the Right Day…12 Insider Tips on Store Markdown Days

6. Grocery Outlet: The Disneyland of Discounts

Grocery Outlet has made its name on being the place where bargains go to party.

This store is filled to the brim with items that are near or just past their best-by date, but still totally edible (and delicious).

It’s like the Robin Hood of grocery stores, taking from the pricey mainstream chains and giving to us, the budget-conscious folks.

Here, you’ll find everything from gourmet cheeses to organic meats, all marked down to prices so low you’ll feel like you’re getting away with something.

One shopper described it as “Black Friday, but without the elbows to the face.”

PRO TIP

Don’t get too attached to anything you buy here. Grocery Outlet’s stock changes faster than a toddler’s mood. What’s there one week may be gone the next, so if you see a deal, snag it.

7. Local Grocery Chains: The Untapped Goldmine

Finally, don’t forget to check your local grocery chains.

Every regional store has its own markdown habits, often marking down meats, dairy, and bakery items as they approach the best-by date.

Some regional stores, like Kroger or Publix, even have special “Manager’s Specials” where you can get everything from fresh produce to bakery treats at deep discounts.

These local stores often have more sporadic markdown schedules, so ask an employee about their markdown schedule and commit it to memory.

See Also: Ultimate Buying Guide: Best Day of the Week to Make Purchases

Timing Is Everything: How to Maximize Your Saving

To really win big in the markdown game, you need to understand one thing: Timing is Everything.

Most stores mark down items early in the morning, but others may discount products later in the day or just before closing.

The key is to find out when your store typically does its markdowns.

Ask an employee or, better yet, become such a regular that they start calling you by name and tipping you off about upcoming deals.

For perishable items like meat and dairy, markdowns usually happen as the products are within a few days of their best-by date.

Be sure to check the markdown section first when you shop.

It’s like going straight for dessert—totally acceptable in this context.

Also, don’t forget about holidays. The day after Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any major holiday, stores often mark down leftover items that are still perfectly good but just didn’t sell in time for the big day.

See Also: All The Popular Store Brands Made By Name Brands

Play It Safe: How to Shop Smart with Markdowns

Alright, while shopping markdowns is a great way to save, we’re not advocating for reckless abandon when it comes to consuming near-expired food.

There are a few simple guidelines you should follow to make sure you’re getting a great deal, not a stomach ache.

Check the packaging: If something is leaking, bulging, or just looks plain sad, skip it.

Smell it: While you can’t always do this in-store (people might give you strange looks if you start sniffing raw chicken in the meat aisle), definitely give items a whiff once you’re home. If it smells funky, trust your nose and toss it.

Freeze it: One of the best ways to take advantage of markdowns is to buy in bulk and freeze what you won’t use immediately.

Meat, bread, and even some dairy items like shredded cheese can be frozen for later.

Use it quickly: When you buy something that’s near its expiration date, plan to use it soon.

This might mean adjusting your weekly meal plan, but hey, that’s the price you pay for a bargain.

Happy bargain hunting, fellow inflation busters.

Ask the Reader: What national grocery stores am I missing that also do markdowns prior to sell-by or use-by dates? Let me know in the comments.

By Kyle James

In today’s competitive market, many stores offer free samples as a way to attract customers and build loyalty. These freebies can range from food items and beauty products to household goods and baby supplies. Here’s a detailed guide to the stores that provide free samples and products, helping you save money and discover new favorites without spending a dime.

1. Costco

Membership Required: Yes

What They Offer: Costco is well-known for its generous sample stations throughout its stores.

On any given day, you can find a variety of food samples, including snacks, beverages, and prepared meals.

These samples not only allow you to try new products but also often introduce you to items that are available in bulk at a discounted price.

How to Get It: Simply walk through the store during peak hours (usually late mornings and afternoons) and visit the sample stations. You can also find free samples at the pharmacy counter for health and wellness products.

COSTCO SAMPLES ETIQUETTE

If the Costco is busy, do NOT plant your cart in the middle of the aisle while you chat with the sample giver for WAY to long. Grab your sample and move on. Also, only take or touch what is put out in front of you. Do not stick your hand in the bowl or tray and take a sample. They will have to THROW AWAY everything and start over.

See Also: 10 Brilliant Ways to Save Money at Costco

2. Sam’s Club

Membership Required: Yes

What They Offer: Similar to Costco, Sam’s Club offers a variety of food samples throughout their stores.

They also have a program called “Freeosk” where you can get free samples by scanning your membership card at designated kiosks.

How to Get It: Visit the store during sample hours and look for the Freeosk kiosks. Scan your membership card to receive your free samples.

3. Sephora

Membership Required: No, but a Beauty Insider account is beneficial

What They Offer: Sephora is a haven for beauty enthusiasts, offering free samples of skincare, fragrance, and makeup products.

With every purchase you can choose up to two free samples, and they also have special promotions where additional samples are available.

How to Get It: Visit a Sephora store and ask for samples at the counter. If you’re shopping online, select your free samples at checkout. Joining the Beauty Insider program can also give you access to deluxe samples and birthday gifts.

4. Ulta Beauty

Membership Required: No, but signing up for their Ultamate Rewards program is beneficial

What They Offer: Ulta Beauty provides free samples of makeup, skincare, and haircare products with online purchases.

They also have in-store events where free samples and services are offered.

How to Get It: Sign up for the Ultamate Rewards program to receive free samples with online orders. Attend in-store events and promotions for additional freebies.

ULTA “SAMPLES HACK”

If it doesn’t matter to you, ALWAYS shop on the Ulta website and shop the special Add-Ons section as you’ll end up with a TON of free stuff. Check out this lady’s haul that she recently shared on a Reddit forum.

See Also: 12 REALLY Smart Ways to Save BIG At Ulta

5. Target

Membership Required: No

What They Offer: Target often has sample stations in their stores, especially in the grocery and beauty departments.

They also offer free samples through their website on occasion and have a baby registry program that includes a FREE welcome kit filled with samples and coupons.

How to Get It: Visit Target stores and look for sample stations. Sign up for the baby registry to receive the welcome kit. Keep an eye on their website for sample offers.

TARGET WITH AN ULTA WITHIN

If your local Target has an Ulta Beauty within, consider yourself LUCKY. These Target locations typically have a free sample bin that you’re free to take beauty samples from. No joke. You’ll find the free sample bin in the beauty section of the store, NOT up front by the registers.

6. Walmart

Membership Required: No

What They Offer: Walmart offers a variety of free samples, primarily through their website.

They have a dedicated page where you can request free samples of household items, personal care products, and more.

How to Get It: Visit the Walmart sample page online and request the available samples. Check back regularly as the offerings change frequently.

See Also: 9 Slick Ways to Save Significant Money at Walmart

USE WALMART GROCERY FOR FREE SAMPLES

I’ve used Walmart Grocery delivery 3 items and EVERY time I’ve gotten several free samples added to one of my delivery bags. Turns out I’m not the only one, so it may be a reason to finally give Walmart Grocery delivery a try.

7. CVS Pharmacy

Membership Required: No, but having an ExtraCare card is beneficial

What They Offer: CVS provides free samples of health and beauty products.

They also have in-store events where customers can receive free samples and coupons.

How to Get It: Sign up for the ExtraCare program to receive offers and free samples. Attend in-store events for additional freebies.

8. Walgreens

Membership Required: No, but having a Balance Rewards card is beneficial.

What They Offer: Walgreens offers free samples of beauty and wellness products. They also have special promotions and events where customers can receive free samples and discounts.

How to Get It: Join the Balance Rewards program and participate in in-store events to receive free samples.

9. Macy’s

Membership Required: No

What They Offer: Macy’s offers free samples of beauty products at their counters.

They often have promotions where additional samples are available with purchases.

How to Get It: Visit the beauty counters at Macy’s and ask for samples. Look out for special promotions and events for more freebies.

FREE MACY’S SAMPLES IN THE MAIL

If you’re on Instagram, Macy’s will mail out a bunch of free beauty samples via Sopost. Follow Macy’s on Instagram and then keep an eye out for these Sopost offers and jump on one when you see it. It’s a 1-time deal but you can always sign-up again when you see another Sopost offer.

10. Nordstrom

Membership Required: No

What They Offer: Nordstrom offers free samples of high-end beauty products with purchases.

They also have events where free samples and deluxe samples are available.

How to Get It: Shop in-store or online and request samples with your purchase. Attend beauty events for more opportunities to receive free products.

11. Whole Foods Market

Membership Required: No

What They Offer: Whole Foods Market offers free samples of organic and natural products.

They often have sampling stations throughout the store, especially on weekends.

How to Get It: Visit Whole Foods Market during peak hours and look for sample stations. Participate in special events and promotions for additional samples.

See Also: Here’s Why Costco Checks Your Receipt When Exiting

12. Trader Joe’s

Membership Required: No

What They Offer: Trader Joe’s is known for offering free samples of their unique and seasonal products.

They usually have a sample station where customers can try new items OR you can sample almost ANY product by starting a conversation with an employee.

How to Get It: Visit Trader Joe’s and head to the sample station. Engage with the staff for more information about the products being sampled.

See Also: The Best Buys at Trader Joe’s According to Employees

TRADER JOE’S SAMPLES HACK

If you want the best chance to score a yummy free sample at Trader Joe’s, you gotta brave the weekend crowd as that’s when they bring them out. It’s a great way to try products that you might not otherwise as TJ’s has so many “eclectic” items to choose from. In recent weeks, I’ve sampled their Chili & Lime Rolled Tortilla Chips, Horchata ice cream, Fiberful Granola bars, and even their Chocolate & Vanilla Bean Swirl Gelato.

13. Lush Cosmetics

Membership Required: No

What They Offer: Lush offers free samples of their handmade cosmetics, including soaps, lotions, and bath products.

They are generous with samples and often provide them upon request.

How to Get It: Visit a Lush store and ask for samples at the counter. The staff is usually happy to provide samples of products you’re interested in.

14. Kiehl’s

Membership Required: No

What They Offer: Kiehl’s provides 3 free samples of their skincare products at checkout as well as free samples at any counter.

They are known for their customer service and willingness to let customers try products before purchasing.

How to Get It: Visit a Kiehl’s store and ask for samples of products you’re considering. They often include free samples with purchases as well.

See Also: All The Companies That Happily Send Out Free Samples

15. The Body Shop

Membership Required: No

What They Offer: The Body Shop offers free samples of their skincare and beauty products.

They also have in-store events where additional samples are provided.

How to Get It: Visit The Body Shop and ask for samples at the counter. Participate in in-store events for more free products.

16. Perfumania

Membership Required: No

What They Offer: Perfumania offers free samples of various fragrances when you join their Perks Rewards Program.

They often have promotions where additional samples are available with purchases.

How to Get It: Visit a Perfumania store and request samples of fragrances you’re interested in. Look out for promotions and events for more freebies.

17. Meijer

Membership Required: No

What They Offer: Meijer offers free samples of grocery items, personal care products, and household goods.

They have a program called “Meijer Freebies” where you can find available samples on their website.

How to Get It: Visit the Meijer Freebies page online and request available samples. Check back regularly for new offerings.

See Also: Score Free Stuff on Amazon…Easy Ways to Make It Happen

18. Grocery Stores (Kroger, Safeway, etc.)

Membership Required: No

What They Offer: Many grocery stores offer free sample stations, especially during weekends.

These samples can range from new food products to seasonal items.

How to Get It: Visit your local grocery store during peak hours and look for sample stations. Participate in store events for more sampling opportunities.

See Also: 24 Clever Ways to Save BIG at the Grocery Store

SCORE FREE SAMPLES AT KROGER

I found a cool website call KrogerKrazy and they have an excellent article on how to score 5 free samples (of your choice) via the mail. Once you sign-up, your Kroger sample box will arrive in a few weeks according to the gal who runs the site, Katie.

19. Bath & Body Works

Membership Required: No

What They Offer: Bath & Body Works offers free samples of their fragrant lotions, soaps, and body sprays.

They also have promotions where customers can receive additional samples with purchases.

How to Get It: Visit a Bath & Body Works store and ask for samples. Keep an eye on their promotions for more freebies.

20. Burt’s Bees

Membership Required: No

What They Offer: Burt’s Bees offers free samples of their natural skincare and beauty products.

They often include samples with online orders and have special promotions.

How to Get It: Visit the Burt’s Bees website and look for sample offers. Participate in promotions and events for additional samples.

21. Baby Supply Stores (BuyBuy Baby, Babies “R” Us, etc.)

Membership Required: No

What They Offer: Stores that specialize in baby products often provide free samples of baby formula, diapers, wipes, and other essentials.

They also have baby registry programs that include welcome kits with samples and coupons.

How to Get It: Visit the store and ask about free samples. Sign up for a baby registry to receive welcome kits with samples.

See Also: ALL the Companies That Hand Out Free Stickers

22. Pet Stores (PetSmart, Petco, etc.)

Membership Required: No

What They Offer: Pet stores often provide free samples of pet food, treats, and other pet products.

They also have events and promotions where additional samples are available.

How to Get It: Visit your local pet store and ask for samples. Participate in store events and promotions for more freebies.

23. Department Stores (Nordstrom, Macy’s, etc.)

Membership Required: No

What They Offer: Department stores often provide free samples of beauty products, including fragrances, skincare, and makeup.

They also have special events where customers can receive deluxe samples and gifts with purchases.

How to Get It: Visit the beauty counters at department stores and ask for samples. Attend special events and promotions for additional freebies.

24. Pharmacy Chains (Rite Aid, Walgreens, CVS, etc.)

Membership Required: No

What They Offer: Pharmacy chains often offer free samples of health and beauty products.

They often have in-store promotions and events where customers can receive additional samples and coupons.

How to Get It: Visit the store and look for sample stations. Participate in promotions and events for more free products.

See Also: 14 Cheap Grocery Stores Near You That’ll Save You BIG

25. Online Free Sample Sites

Membership Required: No

What They Offer: Numerous websites specialize in compiling free sample offers from various companies.

Sites like FreeSamples.org, SampleSource, and PinchMe provide a wide range of samples that you can request online.

How to Get It: Visit these websites and sign up for free sample offers. Check back regularly for new samples.

BONUS Tips:

1. Visit During Peak Hours: Many stores offer samples during busy times, such as weekends and late mornings.

2. Sign Up for Loyalty Programs: Joining store loyalty programs can give you access to exclusive samples and promotions.

3. Attend In-Store Events: Many stores host events where free samples are provided. Keep an eye on store calendars for these events.

4. Check Online: Many stores and brands offer free samples through their websites. Regularly check for new offers.

5. Be Polite: When asking for samples, always be courteous and polite. Store staff are more likely to provide samples to friendly customers.

Ask the Reader: How do you score free samples? Let me know if I missed any stores that are known for handing out freebies.

By Kyle James