The day after Christmas is traditionally the big day for returns of unwanted ugly holiday sweaters or splurges on steeply discounted sales.

Most retailers recommend that people returning gifts have a receipt in hand, but more than half of stores surveyed by the National Retail Federation say that their return policies are more lenient during the holiday season than the rest of the year. Good thing, because less than two-thirds of gift givers say they include the original receipt or a gift receipt "at least some of the time," according to the same survey.

Tips to make the return process easier

* Know the retailer's return policy before you buy. Most retailers have return policies displayed in their stores and Web site.

* Receipts are key to easy returns. Some retailers allow consumers to exchange merchandise without a receipt, but may only provide store credit for the lowest price that the item was sold during the holidays.

* Provide all of the original packaging and all parts, including tags.

Store and mall opening hours today

* J.C. Penney 5:30 a.m.

* Kohl's 6 a.m.

* Macy's 6 a.m.

* Wal-Mart 6 a.m.

* Target 7 a.m.

* Sears 7 a.m.

* Best Buy 8 a.m.

* Dillard's 9 a.m.

* Cherry Creek 8 a.m.

* Park Meadows 8 a.m.

* FlatIron Crossing 8 a.m.

* Southwest Plaza 8 a.m.

* Colorado Mills 9 a.m.