Can I get my money back?
Q I bought a buggy from an online nursery store about three months ago, but it has developed a fault and I want a refund. The site is saying that they will repair the pushcahir, but not replace it or refund it. The manufacturer won't help either. What can I do?
A You should have been notified of the guarantee period and conditions when you bought the buggy. The majority of online shops and manufacturers offer a guarantee of up to 12 months - check what yours says. Most will only refund or exchange a faulty pushchair within 28 days of purchase. After that it is only obliged to repair it if it breaks. As you bought it online, you must deal with the website because your purchase agreement is with them. It must then contact the manufacturer to sort out any problems.
My product is faulty
Q I snapped up a steam steriliser in the sale at my local pharmacy store three weeks ago, but the lid is cracked so it isn't sterilising properly. Can I take it back and get a refund?
A Any goods that are sold at a reduced price because they are damaged should have a sticker ot tag attached that describes the damage, so you are aware of it before you buy and therefore can't claim a refund. If the steam steriliser was just reduced to clear and was sold in full working order, then your statutory rights still apply. As it is unusable with the damage you've described, you should be able to get a refund from the shop. However, if you damaged the product yourself, you won't be entitled to a refund.
Sale bargain?
Q I bought a cot a couple of months ago, but I haven't unpacked it and put it up because my baby's not due until March. However, I've now seen the same cot reduced by 40% in the sale. I'd rather pay the sale price and put what I've saved towards something else. Can I do this?
A If you haven't unpacked your cot and still have the receipt, you could try returning it to the store for a refund if you can face taking it all the way back. But I would advise you to call the store to check its refund policy before you set out. It may just offer you a credit note, which means you'll have to spend the money you get back in the same store.
I'm still waiting for a refund
Q I recently bought a baby carrier from an online store, and returned it unused a week later. But although I've chased the shop several times, I still haven't had my money back. What shall I do?
A If you remembered to keep your receipt and purchase order, well done; plus you've returned your purchase unused within 14 days - both are important if you want a full refund. Online and mail order retailers have up to 28 days to return your money. If after that you still haven't received anything, then call or write again, and contact your local Trading Standards Authority or go to the website www.consumerdirect.gov.uk for help.
I want a reasonably priced pushchair
Q I'm on a tight budget and don't want to pay more than £250 for my baby's first pushchair. What can you recommend?
A Ideally newborns should be tucked up in an enclosed carrycot that you can see into while pushing, but if you're watching your budget you could look at the Bebe Confort Loola, which costs around £230 and has a reversible seat unit that allows you to see your baby as you're pushing him along. Or try the Silver Cross 3D Pram System, which costs a bit more at £280 but includes a lie-flat 'pramette' unit. It's worth spending as much as you can afford on a good, durable model that'll last until your baby becomes a toddler.
