I don't offer returns but have been forced to offer one?

[drspouse]

I sold some cot sheets on a BIN and the buyer says they are "too faded". They were marked as used and they are comparing them in a photo they sent to the same brand cot bumper - it's a fairly in demand brand but older style so there's no way it won't have been washed a lot - obviously their cot bumper hasn't been washed as much.

They didn't ask before buying whether they were faded etc.

I offered a partial refund but the buyer says they want a full refund or a return. I have specifically said I don't offer refunds but now Ebay say I have to refund? What is that about?

Buyers rights unfortunately.

You should have put in the item description they were faded.

Just refund them and be done with it. Did you get a lot of money for them?

what size cot sheets as I might be interested faded or not

They are arguing 'not as described'. Offering a partial refund weakens your case but you have to convince Ebay that used sheets will always be lighter than brand new - the buyer and Ebay may try to say you should have said if they are 'faded'.

If you misdescribe an item then you have to refund, just like a shop.

Do insist on only refunding once you have the item returned, as most buyers don't bother. Good luck.

I have had incidents like this. I presume we're talking of a sale of less than £10? If so, just give a refund and put it down to experience. It's not worth the hassle unless it involves a lot more cash.

They are Gro company zip up sheets/duvet cover, £25. If it was a lower amount I'd be less annoyed! Cot bed size. Wonderful things!

I have no idea what colour they are supposed to be when new but this style is at least 5-6 years old (based on when I got them second hand and the fitted sheet attachment is an older kind) - so her matching bumper must be that old too. So she's a bit unrealistic expecting any sheets of that style to be not faded.

Notcitrus yes I will definitely get them returned first.

Unfortunately people's expectations of secondhand goods differ. She may have expected them to be lightly used and hence unfaded - I think you should have mentioned this in the listing.
When you agree to such a return you will also have to pay the return postage (this is automatically generated by EBay for the buyer and the cost will be added to your invoice at the end of the month).

Definitely wait until you get the item returned before you process the refund though.

It's impossible for me to tell how faded they are, though, as I have nothing to compare them with.

Just ask for return and refund. Don't quibble, you won't win. If you accept the refund you might avoid a negative. In your next description when you relist say good used condition, no marks or holes but show some wash wear as expected. How much does a new one cost?

They are £50 new. I always check the completed items on eBay and price at the low end.