How to Get Rid of Unwanted Christmas Presents – Without Being Found Out
Most of us have received at least one Christmas present that simply misses the mark—a jumper that doesn’t fit, an unattractive ornament, or a scent we dislike. Instead of letting these gifts gather dust at the back of a cupboard, here are some clever strategies to dispose of them without offending the giver.
1. Regift Thoughtfully
Dawn-Maria France from North Yorkshire advocates for regifting as a smart way to declutter. She believes the holiday season is the perfect time to pass unwanted gifts to someone who will appreciate them. “One year, I received garden seeds I had no use for. Instead of letting them go to waste, I regifted them to a gardening friend,” she shares.
– Sustainability: Regifting contributes to sustainability, especially in light of the £42 million worth of unwanted presents disposed of each year in the UK.
– Presentation Matters: Dawn-Maria rewrapped the seeds and added a note: “I received this but knew you’d love it.” This thoughtful touch encourages a positive reaction.
2. Hide the Evidence
Avoid embarrassing situations by ensuring the original gifter and the new recipient don’t cross paths. Etiquette expert Antoinette Akanji emphasizes the importance of discretion.
– Remove labels: Ensure any tags or notes are completely removed to avoid confusing exchanges.
– Inspect carefully: Check that the gift hasn’t been opened or damaged; presenting an obviously used item can lead to awkward discussions.
Reverend Kate Bottley recalls a moment of embarrassment when she forgot to check a card inside a regifted item. “They opened it, and I immediately regretted it,” she says.
3. Resell for Good
Kirsty Quinn from Oxfordshire makes about £500 a month by reselling items from car boot sales and charity shops on platforms like eBay and Vinted. She believes that unwanted gifts can find new life with someone who truly values them.
– Economic Relief: Selling unwanted items can also help fund something you genuinely need, especially during financially tough times.
– Market Trends: Vinted notes that the first Sunday of the year sees a significant increase in listings for unwanted gifts, particularly in women’s toiletries and fashion items.
When reselling, consider using a nondescript username and neutral backgrounds for your photos to maintain anonymity regarding the original gift.
4. Donate Where It Counts
If regifting feels inappropriate, donating to charity is a fantastic alternative. Louise emphasizes that charity shops eagerly anticipate the post-Christmas clear-out, as unwanted gifts can become treasures for others.
– Make a Difference: Allison Swaine-Hughes of the British Heart Foundation encourages donating items like extra decorations or clothing that no longer suits your style.
– Shop Smart: Donating to shops outside your local area can help avoid accidental encounters with the original giver.
5. Include a Gift Receipt
If you’re giving a present, consider including a gift receipt to make returns easier for the recipient.
– Options Abound: Gift receipts usually allow for exchanges, credit notes, or refunds depending on the retailer.
– Honest Conversations: If a recipient feels uncomfortable with a gift, Louise recommends an open dialogue: “Don’t hesitate to ask, ‘I’m really sorry, but I’d like to exchange this for something else—do you have the original receipt?’”
Employing these strategies can help you gracefully navigate the tricky landscape of unwanted Christmas presents while minimizing discomfort for everyone involved. Embrace the season of giving by ensuring that unwanted items find new homes, contributing to both personal happiness and sustainability.