Whether you live by their lotions or love them as a go-to gift option, Bath & Body Works remains an iconic store on the mall circuit. But unlike fashion retailers, the store is more known for its signature smells than its looks, with many fans of the shop becoming nostalgic at just a whiff of one of their long-running famous fragrances. However, while devoted fans are still pairing their Japanese Cherry Blossom soap along with its matching candle after all those years, there's a good chance you're still missing some essential information about the store. Read on to find out the secrets that experts say Bath & Body Works doesn't want you to know.
READ THIS NEXT: 5 Warnings to Shoppers From Ex-Bath & Body Works Employees.
Disclosure: This post is not supported by affiliate partnerships. Any products linked here are strictly for editorial purposes and will not garner a commission.
1 | Their return policy is better than you realize.
Yuliasis / ShutterstockGiven the types of products they sell, it might seem impossible to get your money back on anything you buy at Bath & Body Works. But as it turns out, the company has quite a generous return policy if that soap, lotion, or candle doesn't end up being to your liking. At the same time, experts warn that you shouldn't plan on going too overboard with it.
"Bath & Body Works has a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee, which means you can return anything for any reason at any time. However, some stores are getting some restrictions on this policy now," Julie Ramhold, consumer analyst with DealNews.com, tells Best Life. "You can still return anything for any reason—including products that are somewhat used—but now some stores will limit customers to only $250 of returns or exchanges without a receipt within a 90-day period. As long as you have a receipt or are returning smaller amounts, you shouldn't have anything to worry about, even if your local store is one of these taking on the new policy."
Former employees have also upheld this claim. In a TikTok video posted in January that has since received over 483,000 likes, one past worker says that the company should honor its "100 percent satisfaction guarantee."
2 | Pick up your orders at the store.
ShutterstockThe great shift to online shopping has changed the way we get the products we need. However, it's not as though the convenience of having your items brought to your door doesn't come with an added cost. Fortunately, experts say there's an easy way to save money while getting the Bath & Body Works goods you're after as soon as possible.
"The retailer doesn't offer free shipping typically, so any order you place will cost $6.99 for a flat rate. However, in some cases, you can avoid shipping fees by choosing to pick up at your local store instead," says Ramhold. "Not only will you get your items faster, but you'll avoid extra fees, so it's a win-win."
READ THIS NEXT: 8 Secrets Jo-Ann Fabrics Doesn't Want You to Know.
3 | Make sure you're on their mailing lists.
JHVEPhoto / ShutterstockNo matter what kind of shopper you are, everyone loves a coupon from time to time. But while you should be sure you're not bringing in the wrong store's flyer—yes, it happens with Bed Bath & Beyond coupons—signing up for the company's mailing list will net you plenty of discounts.
The easiest way to get what you're looking for is to sign up for the store's digital mailing list, which will get you all the latest news and coupons sent right to your phone, according to The Smart Shopper. These can often include offers for free shipping or a free product, and can often be used both online and in stores. However, signing up for the traditional mailing list is also an excellent way to get even better discounts sent to your analog mailbox.
If you're planning to use them, make sure you stick to the calendar. While the company was previously generous with a three-day grace period both before and after their valid use windows, that policy has since been retired, Krazy Coupon Lady reports.
4 | You should schedule your purchases for the semi-annual sales.
Mohd Syis Zulkipli / ShutterstockAn unexpected coupon can be a great way to save some money. But those who are looking for real bargains may want to wait until Bath & Body Works holds its semi-annual sales to refill on their favorite items at some serious discounts.
"These sales typically take as much as 75 percent off and are great opportunities to stock up on your favorite scents since one falls in June and the other in December," says Ramhold. "It's a good time to pick up gifts for yourself and others in seasonal scents for both warmer and cooler months."
For more shopping advice delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter.
5 | There's a right time to buy their candles.
iStockWhile they may be best known for their lotions and soaps, Bath & Body Works has long sold their signature scents in candle form, too. And if you're looking to keep things burning all year round, experts say you should mark your calendar for a major annual sale.
"If you love Bath & Body Works candles, this is one event you can't miss. It tends to last for two days in-store and one day online and usually takes 55 to 60 percent off the popular 3-wick candles," Ramhold says. "Be sure to sign up for the email newsletter, so you don't miss out on the sale: It only comes around once a year, and since it runs for such a short amount of time, it can be easy to miss the news."
6 | Stock up during Black Friday.
MrWinn / ShutterstockShopping the day after Thanksgiving has become the norm for anyone looking for serious deals in their holiday shopping. Bath & Body Works just happens to be one of the better options for anyone looking for gifts or to replenish your own favorite scented goods.
"Additionally, Black Friday is another pretty massive sale that's worth shopping," Ramhold tells Best Life. "Very often, the Black Friday sale has 'buy three, get three' free promotions, so it's another good time to stock up on your favorite items."
7 | You can get serious discounts with their new rewards program.
Shutterstock / Billy F Blume JrSigning up for loyalty programs can seem like a burdensome process that may not pay off that well in the end. But in the case of Bath & Body Works, there's an immediate benefit to registering—especially if you're planning on restocking your favorite fragrances down the line.
"Bath & Body Works has a new nationwide rewards program now that's free to join. Right now, new members receive an offer for $10 off a $30 purchase, plus you earn points with every purchase and will earn free products as well," says Ramhold. "Members also get exclusive access to special events and products and an annual birthday gift as well."
READ THIS NEXT: 10 Discontinued Bath & Body Works Products You'll Never See Again.
8 | You don't need to buy sale items in even quantities.
Mike Mozart / FlickrWe all know how effective a "buy one, get one" sale can be at filling up your shopping basket. Bath & Body Works is no exception to this, often promoting a special on its candles at two for $20. But if you're thinking of getting more than just a pair, you can feel free to buy as many as you'd like without risking any savings.
According to Krazy Coupon Lady, these sales mean that the candles will cost $10 apiece, regardless of how many you buy above two. Feel free to spend $30 on three or $50 on five if that's what you need!
