Let’s be honest. Christmas isn’t just about joy, togetherness, and overeating – it’s also about navigating the minefield of unwanted gifts. We’ve all been there. You’re sitting around the tree, and Aunt Susan hands you a garishly wrapped package. Inside is something…awful. Maybe it’s a neon sweater with tassels, a mug with a cringe-worthy motivational quote, or yet another scented candle. Whatever it is, you know it’s going straight into the “What the Heck Do I Do with This?” pile.
So, what do you do? How do you deal with unwanted Christmas presents without hurting feelings or letting the clutter consume you? Here are ten strategies to help you manage the festive fallout.
1. The Art of the Fake Smile
First things first: you have to survive the initial unwrapping. Mastering the fake smile is an essential skill. It’s not just about looking grateful; it’s about sparing the feelings of the well-meaning gifter. When you unwrap that handmade soap shaped like Santa’s backside, channel your inner Oscar winner. Smile broadly, nod appreciatively, and deliver a generic but enthusiastic response: “Wow, this is so thoughtful!” The trick is to strike a balance between sincerity and efficiency—enough to move on without raising suspicion.
Practice makes perfect, so rehearse in the mirror if you’re prone to giving away your true feelings. The aim here isn’t deception for the sake of it but ensuring the holiday mood stays joyful. Once you’ve delivered your line, quickly shift focus to another part of the celebration. Compliment the decorations, ask about their holiday plans, or make a light-hearted joke. Moving on helps prevent any awkward follow-up questions like “Do you really like it?”
Remember, Christmas is about kindness, and sometimes, a well-placed fake smile is the kindest thing you can do. Plus, it buys you time to figure out what to do with the gift later.
2. The “Thank You” and Deflect
When faced with an unwanted gift, the words “Thank you” are your first line of defense. Even if the gift is the furthest thing from what you’d ever want, a heartfelt thank-you can go a long way in maintaining goodwill. Pair it with a warm smile and maintain steady eye contact to convey sincerity.
Once you’ve thanked them, it’s time to pivot. Deflection is your best friend in these moments. After unwrapping, steer the conversation in another direction. Ask about their holiday traditions, compliment their outfit, or express interest in how they spent their morning. Anything that shifts the spotlight away from the gift works. For example, if someone asks if you like the purple polka-dot scarf they gave you, say, “Oh, it’s such a unique pattern! By the way, how was your trip to visit the cousins last week?”
The goal here isn’t to avoid gratitude but to escape further scrutiny. The giver will feel appreciated, and you can avoid having to commit to using the item in their presence. Deflection is subtle but highly effective when handled with tact, ensuring everyone walks away feeling good.
3. Re-Gift Like a Pro
Re-gifting has a bad reputation, but it’s not inherently a bad practice. Done correctly, it’s a sustainable and practical way to ensure unwanted gifts find a home where they’re truly appreciated. The key to successful re-gifting lies in discretion and planning.
Start by creating a designated “re-gift” drawer or box. Whenever you receive an item that isn’t your style or doesn’t fit your needs, tuck it away here. Be sure to attach a sticky note with the name of the original giver to avoid awkward situations where you accidentally re-gift it back to them. Consider keeping a list in your phone as an extra failsafe.
When choosing a new recipient for the item, think carefully about their tastes and preferences. A generic scented candle might be perfect for a Secret Santa exchange, while a quirky mug could brighten a coworker’s desk. Presentation matters, so re-wrap the item beautifully and include a thoughtful note.
Ultimately, re-gifting is about ensuring the item has a second chance to shine. Done with care, it’s a win-win: you clear your space, and someone else receives a present they’ll genuinely enjoy. Just remember, what goes around shouldn’t come back around!
4. Return or Exchange It
Gift receipts are a Christmas miracle. If your gift comes with one, you’ve hit the jackpot. With a receipt, you can return or exchange the item for something you actually like, guilt-free. Most stores make this process easy during the post-holiday season, so act quickly before the return window closes.
Even without a receipt, you may still have options. Many retailers allow exchanges for store credit, especially if the item is in its original packaging. Do a little research on store policies to see what’s possible. For example, large chain stores often have generous return policies during the holidays.
If you’re dealing with a particularly unusual or niche item, consider reaching out to the store directly. Sometimes, a polite conversation with customer service can yield surprising results. Keep the item’s packaging intact and bring any tags or stickers with you—these small details can make a big difference.
Returning or exchanging unwanted gifts isn’t just about getting something you prefer; it’s also about reducing waste. Rather than letting an item gather dust, you’re giving it a second life. Plus, you’re turning a potential clutter problem into an opportunity for joy.
5. Donate to Charity
One person’s unwanted gift could be another’s treasure. Donating to charity is a thoughtful and generous way to handle items that don’t fit into your life. Local shelters, thrift stores, and community organizations often welcome donations, especially around the holiday season when demand is high.
Before donating, consider the condition of the item. Most charities appreciate new or gently used items that are clean and functional. That means the neon sweater you’ll never wear could be a warm and welcome addition to someone else’s wardrobe. Even quirky items, like novelty mugs or themed blankets, might bring joy to someone in need.
Do a little research to find the right organization for your donation. Some charities specialize in clothing, while others focus on household goods or toys. Check their websites for guidelines on what they accept. Many charities also offer pick-up services, making the process even easier.
By donating, you’re not only clearing your space but also contributing to a good cause. It’s a feel-good solution that turns an awkward situation into an act of kindness. After all, the holiday season is about giving—and this way, everyone benefits.
6. Sell It Online
In the digital age, there’s a market for just about everything. That gnome-shaped lamp or quirky cookbook you’ll never use? Someone out there might be willing to pay for it. Platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Depop make it easy to list unwanted gifts and turn them into cash.
Start by taking clear, well-lit photos of the item. Write a concise but appealing description, highlighting any unique features. Be honest about the condition, and set a reasonable price based on similar listings. If you’re unsure about pricing, spend a few minutes browsing to see what similar items sell for.
Timing is key. Post your listing shortly after Christmas when people are actively shopping for deals. Consider offering free local pickup to attract more buyers, especially for larger or fragile items. For shipping, use sturdy packaging and factor the cost into your pricing.
Selling online isn’t just about making money; it’s also about finding a home for items you don’t need. With a bit of effort, you can declutter your space and fatten your wallet. Just remember to be discreet—you wouldn’t want the original gifter stumbling across your listing!
7. Upcycle or Repurpose
If you’re the creative type, upcycling unwanted gifts can be a fun and rewarding project. With a little imagination, you can transform even the most questionable items into something useful or beautiful. Think of it as turning lemons into lemonade—or, in this case, turning a hideous scarf into a chic throw pillow.
Start by assessing the item’s potential. Can it be painted, sewn, or reassembled into something new? For example, mismatched mugs can become quirky planters, and an oversized sweater can be turned into a cozy dog bed. Pinterest and DIY blogs are treasure troves of inspiration for upcycling ideas.
Upcycling isn’t just about creativity; it’s also an eco-friendly choice. By repurposing items, you’re reducing waste and giving them a second life. Plus, the process can be incredibly satisfying, especially when you end up with something you genuinely love.
If you’re new to DIY projects, start small and work your way up. You don’t need to be an expert to create something wonderful. Sometimes, the simplest transformations can make the biggest impact.
8. The “Mystery Loss”” Excuse
Sometimes, a little white lie can save you a lot of grief. If the original gifter asks why they never see you using or wearing their gift, the “Mystery Loss” excuse is a handy fallback. It’s a polite way to dodge awkwardness without hurting anyone’s feelings.
For example, you could say, “Oh no, I misplaced it during my last move!” or “It got damaged in the wash—I was so upset!” These excuses are vague enough to be believable and final enough to end the conversation. Just make sure your delivery is convincing. A touch of regret in your tone can go a long way.
This strategy works best for gifts that you’ve already donated, re-gifted, or sold. It’s a way to maintain the illusion of gratitude while freeing yourself from the burden of actually using the item. However, use this tactic sparingly and only when absolutely necessary. Honesty is usually the best policy, but sometimes, a small fib is the easiest path to keeping the peace.
9. Host a Post-Holiday Swap Party
Turn unwanted gifts into a social event with a post-holiday swap party. Invite friends and family to bring items they received but don’t want, and set up a fun exchange. It’s like Secret Santa in reverse, with everyone walking away with something new—and hopefully better suited to their tastes.
To organize, set some ground rules. Items should be new or gently used, and everyone should wrap their contributions to keep the swap exciting. Provide snacks and drinks to create a festive atmosphere, and consider adding games or activities to keep the energy high.
During the swap, take turns choosing gifts or use a white elephant-style system where participants can “steal” from one another. It’s all in good fun, and the laughter often makes the event more memorable than the gifts themselves.
A swap party isn’t just about rehoming unwanted presents; it’s also a chance to connect with loved ones and make the post-holiday slump a little brighter. Plus, it’s an eco-friendly way to ensure that gifts find appreciative owners.
10. Be Honest (When Appropriate)
Honesty can be tricky, but in some cases, it’s the best approach. If someone close to you gives you a gift that’s completely off the mark, consider having a gentle, honest conversation.
Start by expressing gratitude for their thoughtfulness. Then, explain why the item isn’t quite right for you. For example, you might say, “Thank you so much for this lovely sweater! It’s such a sweet gesture, but I don’t usually wear this style. Would you mind if I exchanged it?” Most people will appreciate your openness, especially if it means their gift doesn’t go to waste.
Honesty works best in close relationships where trust and understanding are already strong. However, be mindful of the giver’s feelings and approach the conversation with kindness. Avoid being critical or dismissive—focus on the positive intent behind the gift.
While honesty isn’t always the easiest path, it can lead to better understanding and more thoughtful gift exchanges in the future. Sometimes, a little courage can make all the difference in maintaining strong, open relationships.
Bonus Tip: Preventative Measures for Next Year
To avoid a repeat performance, take control of the gift-giving process. Create a wishlist or drop hints about what you’d like. Some families even agree to skip gifts altogether or stick to practical items. Communication is key. If people know what you actually want, they’re less likely to go rogue with their shopping.
Dealing with unwanted Christmas presents doesn’t have to be a chore. With a little tact, creativity, and strategy, you can navigate the holiday season with your relationships intact – and your home free of clutter. So, go forth and conquer those unwanted gifts. And remember: it’s the thought that counts…right?
