Electronics, home and office

In our electronics category: returned, overstock and open-box electronics, for free collection in Brentwood or shipped to you.

Only when the listing says so. Otherwise rely on the condition grade and notes, and test the item the day you receive it.

That it powers on, every listed accessory and cable is there, the screen and ports are undamaged, and it resets to factory settings. Report problems within 7 days.

Only if the listing says so. Chargers and cables are often missing from returns, so check the listed contents before you buy.

Not necessarily — many are returned unused or simply unwanted. The grade tells you what we found; "For parts or not working" means it is not promised to work.

Most smaller electronics can; each listing says whether it ships, is collection only, or offers both.

Sometimes, in our cell phones category. Check the condition grade and whether the listing says the phone is unlocked or tied to a carrier.

That it is not locked to a previous owner's account, the battery holds charge, the screen is undamaged, and it resets cleanly to factory settings.

Check the exact model names in the listing against your phone; cases, screen protectors and mounts are made for specific models. See phone accessories.

Clean ear tips and pads before use, or replace the tips. Our audio listings say whether an item is new, open-box or used.

Charge them fully, pair them, and test both sides, the microphone and any noise cancelling on the day you get them.

Yes. Reset any smart speaker, camera, doorbell or hub to factory settings before setting it up on your own account.

Yes. Refurbished grades mean the item was restored to working order; used grades describe wear from previous use without that restoration.

Yes, in home and garden and home decor: returned and overstock goods, with collection in Brentwood or shipping.

That sets are complete, nothing is cracked or chipped, and every part needed for assembly is there — listings note what is known to be missing.

Inspect the cord and plug, clean it thoroughly, check it against recall lists, and test it before regular use. See small appliances.

Wash them well before use and check lids and seals. Our water bottles and lunch containers are graded, so you know if they were used.

Yes, in canteens, bottles and flasks. Check that lids seal and, for insulated ones, that they keep temperature.

Yes. Bulky outdoor items are often collection only, which saves postage — check each listing's delivery options.

It depends on the item: the listing and photos show whether it is boxed, assembled or partly assembled, and note any missing hardware we know of.

No. Colour or style is a change of mind, which final sale does not cover, so check the photos and dimensions first.

It has two walls with most of the air taken out of the gap between them, which slows heat moving in or out. Most heat escapes through the neck, so keep the lid on.

Yes, in office supplies and equipment — often overstock, sold singly or in packs.

Check the listing: a pack that has been opened is graded below New, and its notes say if any are missing. See pens and pencils.

Yes, in books, movies and music, graded with book-style words such as Like New, Very Good, Good and Acceptable.

The book has obvious wear but is complete and readable.

The book looks new but has been read.

The photos show the actual item, case included or not; check that discs are listed as present before buying media.