Receiving Christmas gifts, especially from someone you aren’t particularly close to, can be tricky. Sometimes we are gifted something that we don’t really want or need, or even something we already have. But what do you do with those unwanted gifts? The good news is there are several options that don’t include throwing them away. Read on to learn more.
DONATE
Probably the best thing you can do with unwanted gifts is to donate them to a good cause. Not only will you be able to support a good cause and help someone else, you'll be able to rid yourself of the gift you don’t want or need.
However, keep in mind that not all unwanted gifts can be donated. While an independent or local charity shop may have different guidelines, there are several items that donations centers are unable to accept. For example, Goodwill will not take personal care items, fragrance items, weapons, or exercise equipment. If you aren’t sure, call ahead to learn what you can and can’t donate.
RETURN TO STORE
Your cousin or co-worker likely won’t know that you returned the gift they bought you and doing so has become more common over the past years. Many retailers are adjusting return policies to offer longer periods of time after the holidays, so you have more time to get an item back to the store. In some cases, you may have a gift receipt and if you do, bring it for the return. Otherwise, you may be able to get store credit that you can then use to purchase something you’d prefer.
Keep in mind that sometimes the retailer may only be able to apply the credit to the card used to make the purchase. The person who bought the gift would then see that you returned it, so consider whether that’s important to avoid or not. If you aren’t sure, ask the retailer about their policy prior to returning the item.
REGIFT
If someone else on your holiday gift list would like or appreciate the gift you don’t want, don’t be afraid to regift it. While you should avoid regifting for the purpose of getting rid of an item, it should be considered if the other person would genuinely like the present.
SELL ONLINE
Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, eBay, OfferUp, Poshmark, and other similar platforms are perfect for selling unwanted gifts. All you have to do is choose a site and set up a listing for the item. Be sure to include a detailed description and title, information about the item's condition, photos, and a reasonable starting price.
SWAP WITH A FRIEND
Do you have a friend or family member trying to get rid of a gift they didn’t like? Propose a swap (if both items are something the other would enjoy). However, don’t do this at the same gathering where you received the gift, or in front of the person who gave you the gift (hopefully that’s obvious). Wait until after the party or even a few days later to have the swap.
REPURPOSE
Social media and the internet are full of ideas for things you can DIY. Even if you don’t like the gift, you may be able to turn it into something else useful or that you’d like better. Research your gift online to discover possible ways to repurpose the gift.
