Even the best policies can be a pain if the customer service is lousy. Before you buy, look at how the store handles returns. Is there a phone number or live chat? Do they respond to emails quickly? A store that makes you jump through hoops to get a refund isn't worth the hassle.

If you're buying from an online marketplace like Etsy or eBay, returns are often mediated by the platform. But for direct purchases, you're at the mercy of the seller's policy.

A good sign: the store's return policy is written in plain language, not legalese. It should tell you exactly what to do, step by step. If it's vague or confusing, that's a warning sign.