What Should You Do with Unwanted Christmas Gifts?

Many people find themselves with unwanted Christmas gifts, such as ill-fitting jumpers or perfumes they dislike. Instead of stashing these items away, there are several tactful ways to regift them without causing offence. This article explores effective strategies for passing on unwanted gifts, including regifting, reselling, and donating, all while promoting sustainability and reducing waste.

Last updated: 14 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

With the festive season concluded, many are left grappling with unwanted gifts. The latest trend is to pass these items on, either through regifting, selling online, or donating to charity shops. This shift is particularly relevant in light of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis in the UK, where many households face financial challenges. The practice of regifting not only helps declutter homes but also contributes to sustainability by reducing waste. Reports indicate that approximately £42 million worth of unwanted gifts end up in landfill every year in the UK.

Key takeaways

Many unwanted gifts can be regifted, resold, or donated to charity.
Regifting should be done discreetly to avoid awkward situations.
Reselling unwanted gifts can provide financial relief and sustainability.
Donating to charity contributes to a good cause and gives items a second life.
Including a gift receipt can simplify exchanges for the recipient.

Timeline: how we got here

The discussion around unwanted gifts has gained traction in recent years, particularly as the environmental impact of consumer waste comes to the forefront. Key events include:

25 December 2022: Christmas Day, a peak time for gift exchanges.
1 January 2023: Many start clearing out unwanted gifts, leading to an increase in resale activity.
First Sunday of January: Vinted reports a spike in listings of unwanted gifts, averaging three times the usual daily rate.
October 2023: Ongoing conversations about sustainability and financial responsibility continue to shape consumer behaviour.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The rise in popularity of platforms like Vinted has made it easier for consumers to resell unwanted gifts. Notably, they report that last year’s top-listed items included women's toiletries, perfumes, and fashion items. This trend highlights the changing attitude towards gift-giving and receiving, especially in the current economic climate.

What was already established

Regifting has long been a controversial topic, with etiquette experts advising caution. The idea of passing on gifts is not new; however, the growing awareness of sustainability and waste reduction is reshaping how individuals approach unwanted gifts. Many are now more willing to embrace regifting as a way to declutter and promote eco-friendliness.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

Unwanted gifts can create clutter and financial strain on households, especially during the festive season when spending is at its peak. By regifting or reselling, consumers can alleviate some of the financial burden while also promoting sustainable practices. This shift can lead to a more mindful approach to gift-giving, as consumers become more aware of their purchasing habits.

Businesses and jobs

As more individuals turn to reselling platforms, businesses in the second-hand market are likely to see increased activity. Retailers that offer gift receipts may also benefit from improved customer satisfaction, as consumers appreciate the flexibility these policies provide. Overall, the trend could foster a growth in the resale economy, creating opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs.

Policy and regulation

With the emphasis on sustainability, there may be future considerations regarding regulations on waste and consumer practices. Encouraging recycling and reducing landfill waste aligns with broader UK government goals to promote environmental responsibility. As public awareness grows, so too may pressure on businesses to adopt more sustainable practices.

Numbers that matter

£42 million: Estimated value of unwanted gifts thrown away each year in the UK.
£500: Monthly income that some individuals like Kirsty Quinn generate by reselling items sourced from car boot sales.
Three times: Average increase in listings on Vinted for unwanted gifts on the first Sunday of January.
Last year’s top resold items: Included toiletries, perfumes, and fashion items.
500: Estimated number of charity shops across the UK that welcome donations of unwanted gifts.

Definitions and jargon buster

Regifting: The practice of giving away a gift that was received from someone else.
Vinted: An online marketplace for buying and selling second-hand clothing and accessories.
Gift receipt: A receipt that allows the recipient to exchange or return a gift without revealing the original buyer's details.
Charity shop: A retail outlet that sells donated goods to raise money for charitable causes.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the festive season comes to a close, individuals should evaluate their unwanted gifts promptly. Consider regifting to friends or family who may appreciate the item, or look into platforms like Vinted for resale. Also, explore local charity shops for donation options.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Monitor how the resale market evolves and consider participating in community events like car boot sales. Continue reassessing what items are truly needed and which can be passed on to others, fostering a more sustainable lifestyle.

Signals to watch

Increased listings of unwanted gifts on resale platforms.
Changes in donation patterns at local charity shops.
Public awareness campaigns about sustainability and waste reduction.

Practical guidance

Do

Carefully inspect any item before regifting to ensure it’s in good condition.
Remove any original labels or notes that identify the previous giver.
Consider donating items to charity shops to help those in need.
Include a gift receipt when giving gifts to allow for easy exchanges.

Don’t

Regift items to someone within the same social circle as the original giver.
Pass on gifts that are opened or show signs of wear.
Forget to include a note if you want to be transparent about the item’s history.

Checklist

Evaluate all gifts received and decide which to keep, regift, or donate.
Check the condition of any item before regifting.
Consider the recipient’s taste and preferences to avoid awkwardness.
Research local charity shops for donation options.
Look into online resale platforms for selling unwanted gifts.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While regifting can be a practical solution, there are risks involved, including the potential for offending the original giver or the new recipient. If the item is recognised, it can lead to awkward conversations. Additionally, if items are damaged or incomplete, it may reflect poorly on the regifter. Therefore, caution is advised when deciding to regift, and it’s essential to ensure that the original giver and recipient are unlikely to cross paths.

Bottom line

Regifting, reselling, and donating unwanted gifts can be a sustainable way to manage the aftermath of the Christmas season. As economic pressures continue, these practices not only help declutter homes but also promote a more environmentally conscious approach to gift-giving. By adopting these strategies, individuals can make room for meaningful items while ensuring that unwanted gifts find new homes.

FAQs

What is regifting?

Regifting is the practice of giving away a gift that you received from someone else, typically to someone who may appreciate it more.

How can I regift without offending someone?

To regift without causing offence, ensure that the original giver and new recipient do not cross paths, remove any identifying labels, and check that the item is in good condition.

What should I do with unwanted gifts?

You can regift, sell online, or donate unwanted gifts to charity shops, all of which help reduce waste and promote sustainability.