What is the Target Return Policy for Opened Items?

Can you return opened Formula to Target? As shoppers, we often need to return items, especially baby products from Target like formula from brands such as Similac and PediaSure.

If you bought baby formula from Target and are not happy with it, you might be wondering if you can return it.

Even if your situation changed or you just had a change of heart, it’s good to know store return policies.

Let’s help you understand what Target’s rules are for returning both opened and unopened baby formula.

Can You Return Opened Formula to Target?

If you bought baby formula at Target and are not happy with it, you can return it within 90 days, even if it’s opened or partially used.

Target is usually flexible and may give you a refund without returning the formula if you explain your situation. For the recalled formula, you can return it anytime for a full refund.

If the formula is from brands like Similac, Enfamil, Pedialyte, PediaSure, Gerber, Earth’s Best, or HappyBaby, it must be unopened for hygiene reasons. But if it’s Target’s brand, Up & Up, you can return it open.

If your formula is unopened and unused, you have 90 days for a return, and if you have a Target RedCard, you get an extra 30 days.

After this time, you can only get a refund if you have a RedCard, received it from a gift registry, or if it’s recalled.

Keep in mind that opened or damaged items without a receipt may not qualify for a refund or exchange.

Target’s usual return policy applies to baby formula unless there are specific exemptions mentioned.

How to Return Baby Formula

When you need to return something to Target, there are a few ways to start the process. These include:

1. To Return to the Store

To return baby formula to a Target store, just bring it and your receipt to the guest services desk near the entrance.

Tell an employee you want to return it, show your receipt, explain why, and if everything checks out, you’ll get a refund back to your original payment method.

2. Through their Website or App

If you bought your baby formula on the Target website or the Target app, go to your account, and find your order in “Orders” (Target.com) or “Purchases” (Target app).

Click “Return an item,” and choose either “Return to store” or “Return by mail.” If returning to a store, you’ll get a return barcode to bring with you.

3. By Mail

If you want to return your item by mail, pick the item, choose a reason, decide if you want a replacement or a refund, enter your address, click “Submit,” print the prepaid shipping label, stick it on the package, and drop it off at any UPS location.

It might take a few days for the refund to appear in your bank account, and if you have questions, you can call Target Customer Service at 1-800-440-0680.

Does Target Require a Receipt When Returning Formula?

If you don’t have a receipt for your baby formula return at Target, you can still do it by proving your purchase through alternative means.

This includes using a Target RedCard or major credit cards like Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover. If the purchase is confirmed, you’ll get a full refund or a regular exchange.

Make sure to bring a valid government-issued photo ID for verification. If the proof of purchase is challenging, Target may issue a merchandise return card with the current sale price.

If you’re a Target Circle Rewards member, log your receipts regularly through the app to avoid losing them. For any questions, reach out to Target Guest Services at 1-800-440-0680.

Conditions and Alternatives for Returns at Target

To make your return process easy, here are a few things to keep in mind;

1. Proof of Purchase: Make sure to bring the original paper receipt or a digital copy when returning your item. This helps the cashier process your return smoothly.

2. Photo ID Verification: Bring a government-issued photo ID with you. This is to confirm that you are the person making the return.

3. Refund Process: Once your returned item is verified, you’ll get a full refund.

4. Exchange Option: You can exchange the item for something else at Target. Just keep in mind that if the new item costs more, you’ll need to pay the price difference.

How to Handle a Formula That is Not Returnable

If you have baby formula that you cannot return to Target, do not fret. They do not sell returned baby food and formula to ensure safety.

The extra formula can be used to;

1. Use it in Other Foods: The leftover formula may be mixed with rice cereal, or oatmeal, or used in baking instead of milk. It gives additional nutrients to your child’s food.

2. Check Expiry Date: Ensure the formula powder is not expired. If it is still edible, you can treat it like powdered milk. You can also shake things up and drink it yourself if you don’t mind the taste.

3. Donate to Food Pantries: You can also donate an unopened formula to local food pantries or shelters. They will like it and make good use of it.

4. Ask Friends or Social Media: If you opened the formula but cannot use the rest, ask friends or post on social media. Someone may require it, and it is an incredible way to assist others.

Reasons for Returning Baby Formula

The following are some of the legitimate reasons for which you can return the baby formula.

1. Defective or Damaged Items: In case the formula has a broken seal or damaged packaging, it may be unsafe to give to your baby. It is a way of taking care of their health.

2. Unopened Products: In most stores, you can return unused containers if you bought too much formula or received the wrong type.

3. Incorrect Items: If you were given the wrong formula, you have a good reason to return it and get the right one.

4. Concerns about Authenticity or Quality: Naturally, if you think that the formula is fake or does not match the quality standards, you can bring it back. Your baby’s safety is very important.

Remember that stores have special policies when such cases arise to ensure customer satisfaction.

For Target shoppers who are regular customers, baby formula can be returned within 90 days of purchase for a refund or exchange. 

However, if you are a Target Circle member or have a Target RedCard, you have an extra 120 days.

The Up & Up baby formula can be returned within a year even if it’s already opened. The formula from Target’s baby registry list is also refundable for one year after the due date of the baby.

However, whatever the type, you will need to provide a receipt to get a full refund or make an exchange.