Our Deposit & Return Scheme

All our packaging has a value. By paying a deposit, we're creating an incentive for returns—making sure containers come back to be reused rather than discarded. It's a simple system that works.

Returning your bottles, jars and bags closes the loop. Every container we get back is cleaned and refilled, staying in circulation instead of becoming waste. It's how we keep packaging out of landfills and make refilling genuinely sustainable.

Collection

Local Delivery

We'll collect your empties when we deliver your next order. Just make sure they're clean and leave them in your designated spot on delivery day.

return by post

Post Your Empties

Bring your empties into the shop and we'll credit your deposit on the spot. Or refill them in store there and then — that way, you'll only pay for the product you fill it with.

Display of cleaning product dispensers and in a store setting.

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In-Store

Bring your empties into the shop and we'll credit your deposit on the spot or you can refill them in store — you'll only pay for the product you fill.

Together, we've saved 70,647 single-use bottles and packaging items from landfill. Every refill adds to that number.

Our Packaging

A little more info

The Boring Stuff

CAN I KEEP MY REFILL BOTTLE?

Yes, you can keep your bottle. However, the deposit won't be refunded if it isn't returned. The deposit is only credited back when the container is returned in good condition.

WHAT CAN BE RETURNED?

Returnable items: amber glass bottles, clear jars, cotton bags, and 2.5L/5L tubs.

Only The Village Refill's own containers can be returned. Third-party or other brand containers are not accepted.

WHATS MY CONTAINERS WORTH?

500ml bottles and jars: £1 deposit, fully credited back on return.
1L bottles and jars: £2 deposit, fully credited back on return.
Cotton bags: £1 deposit, fully credited back on return.

2.5L and 5L tubs are returnable at no deposit.

IS THERE A CLEANING CHARGE?

There's no separate cleaning charge on return. The cost of washing and preparing bottles for reuse is built into the price of the product itself. Your deposit is returned in full when you bring your container back.

POSTING YOUR EMPTIES

You can save up your empties and post them back to us at your own cost. Once we receive them and confirm they're in good condition, we'll credit your full deposit to your account.

We recommend saving up around 10 items before posting — the more you save, the better the return. For example, 10 items will typically cover the cost of postage and earn around £5 in credit (depending on postage method).

Pack glass containers securely in a sturdy box, wrapped in newspaper, cardboard, or other padding to prevent breakage in transit.

CONTAINER CONDITIONS

All returned containers must be clean and in reusable condition. A little label wear is fine. We reserve the right to withhold the deposit on any container that is damaged or not suitable for reuse.