Scent Notes: Day 2 of Rewards Exclusion Questions
Edit:
I was just told some clarification — Single Wick Candles ARE included in rewards redemption. It’s candle accessories that are excluded.
Basically, anything imported from China appears to be off the table — reportedly due to tariffs. The recent reward value increase to $18.95 was designed to give more flexibility for redeeming body care, but certain exclusions help offset costs… accessories being a major one.
I kinda figured tariffs were the reason. 🤷♀️
If you’ve been following along…
Yesterday, the Bath & Body Works Rewards App announced that starting next week (5/12), we’ll celebrate MEMBERFEST — a week full of perks and fun!
Not long after that went live, another image surfaced on social media showing an exclusion line at the bottom of a promotional graphic — and yep, it made the rounds quickly. I shared the original App post, but once this new image popped up, people noticed the fine print... and let’s just say, the internet wasn’t exactly throwing a happiness parade.
Personally, I’m always grateful for anything offered for free — thank you! 🙌 But I understand both sides of this. The exclusion fine print is confusing, especially when…
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At the top of the memo, it says things like:
“Now you can redeem even more body care, single wicks, and other select items!”
…and then at the bottom?
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Tiny print exclusions. 🙃
So wait — can we redeem candles or not?
Here’s my take:
We need a clear, comprehensive list — a "Here are the SELECT ITEMS you can redeem" list.
In every store. No more of this “My store said I can” vs. “My store said I can’t.”
Post it BIG:
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On the wall
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At the registers
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On the front doors
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On handouts with your bounceback offers
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Just... everywhere. Please.
Suggested QUALIFYING ITEMS LIST (for rewards redemption):
✅ Included Items:
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Single Wick Candles
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All Body Care (from every collection: Signature, Men's, Beauty, Everyday Luxuries, SPF, Aroma, etc.)
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Bar Soaps, Lip Care, Travel Sizes, Mini Gift Sets
Large Hand Soap Refills
Large Sanitizer Refills
❌ Excluded Items?? :
(Mostly accessories & home decor – many made in China, hence likely tariff-related.)
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Candle Sleeves & Pedestals
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Wick Trimmers, Snuffers, Matches
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Gift Bags, Cosmetic Bags, Coin Purses, etc.
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PocketBac Holders
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Wallflower Units
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Wallflower Refills
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Room Sprays
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Car Fragrance Holders
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Hand Soap Sleeves
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Holiday Accessories (like candle toppers)
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Bath Tools (brushes, sponges, poofs)
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Socks
Final Thoughts
We may never know when this internal memo was written or how far in advance these plans were set in motion. But based on what I’ve heard, it does seem like tariffs are a big reason behind the accessory exclusions. Imported items are affected — and that might be why they're now off the rewards table.
Still, I know some people can’t use the body care products due to sensitivities or allergies — and they’ve always enjoyed redeeming rewards for cute extras. I hear you.
Let’s hope the feedback being shared these last few days isn’t falling on deaf ears. We want clarity, not confusion — and maybe a little extra joy going into MEMBERFEST!
Rewards Program Perks (Refresher):
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Earn points with every purchase
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1,000 points = one free product (now up to $18.95!)
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Exclusive access to events, products & surprises
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Annual birthday gift 🎉
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100 bonus points for first-time app login
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New members get a $10 off $30 coupon right in their app wallet
📣 Let’s just make sure everyone knows what they can actually redeem.