I’m a former Bath & Body Works worker – you’ll be shocked at the ways customers try to get free stuff from the store

SHOPPERS are trying to outwit a popular retailer by using its return policy.

Bath and Body Works shoppers have tried to get their favorite items for free under part of the store's return policy.

Mercedes Angel alleges to be a former employee who shared the secret on TikTok.

In the since-deleted video, Angel explained the store's "equal exchange" policy.

She claims this policy allows shoppers to return any item — even if they used some of it — for another equal item.

Angel said people have returned near-empty candles and been given new ones under this return policy.

Although she admits it feels wrong, she said "tons of people" do it.

In reality, Bath and Body Works has stated on their website this tactic should not work.

On the website, it says: "Our return policy is intended to help customers who have issues that are related to poor product performance or unsatisfactory customer experience and is not intended to be taken advantage of when a product performs as expected."

"If a product has been fully used, it would seem that it has met its performance expectations."

So for those hoping to return an empty bottle of lotion for a free refill, think again.

However, shoppers can save $10 by taking advantage of Bath and Body Works' loyalty program.

Signing up for the loyalty program gives new members get $10 off their first purchase of $30 or more.

Once signed up, you earn ten points for every dollar you spend in-store or online.

At 750 points, you will get a free full-sized product of your choice up to the value of $16.50.

Another secret tip can get you double or triple discounts if you play it right.

When there's a sale, let the assistant ring through your items at the discounted price.

Then hand over one or more coupons. For instance, you could use a $10 off voucher first and then another for 20 percent off the total.

The overall saving if you do it in the right order can be massive.