UPDATE: The holiday season has left many with unwanted gifts, and experts are urging quick action to handle these items effectively. With just days past Christmas, now is the perfect time to consider what to do with those presents that missed the mark.
Many people, like Dawn-Maria France from North Yorkshire, advocate for re-gifting. “It’s a budget-friendly way to manage spending, especially during the cost-of-living crisis,” she explains. Dawn-Maria believes that passing on unwanted gifts is not only practical but also a sustainable choice that combats waste. Last year, the UK saw an estimated £42 million worth of unwanted presents thrown away, many ending up in landfills.
TIME-SENSITIVE INSIGHT: January 1, 2024 is a peak day for reselling unwanted gifts, according to data from Vinted. Listings on this day can triple compared to normal daily rates, making it a critical time for anyone looking to declutter and find new homes for their unwanted items.
How to Re-Gift Responsibly
Experts recommend several strategies to re-gift without causing offense. Louise Minchin, a presenter on BBC’s Rip Off Britain, emphasizes the importance of removing any labels or notes that reveal the original recipient. She advises checking gifts for any signs of wear—broken seals or opened packaging can give away that the item is not brand new.
“I’ve been caught out,” admits Reverend Kate Bottley from BBC Radio 2, recalling an instance where she forgot to remove a card from a re-gifted item. Such slip-ups can create awkward moments that are best avoided.
Antoinette Akanji, an etiquette expert, advises keeping the original giver and the new recipient from crossing paths. “If your aunt has given you a jumper that you didn’t like, do not re-gift it to your cousin,” she warns, noting that this could lead to uncomfortable conversations.
Resale and Donation Options
Many are turning to resale as a way to manage unwanted gifts. Kirsty Quinn from Oxfordshire reports making about £500 a month reselling items on platforms like eBay and Vinted. “If you receive a gift that you don’t like, selling it online can help someone else get something they want at a cheaper price,” she says. This is especially relevant as consumers face economic challenges.
Vinted’s data indicates that last year’s top-listed items included women’s toiletries, perfumes, jewelry, nightwear, and make-up. The company also suggests using a neutral username and clean backgrounds for photos to maintain anonymity when reselling.
If re-gifting feels uncomfortable, donating to charity is a viable option. Allison Swaine-Hughes, retail director at the British Heart Foundation, states, “Our stores are full of unexpected treasures—quality items just waiting to find loving new homes.” She encourages people to donate items that may not fit their needs, as they could brighten someone else’s life.
Make Gift-Giving Easier
For those still in the gift-giving mode, including a gift receipt can alleviate future issues. Louise Minchin emphasizes, “Including a gift receipt gives recipients far more options,” which can ease the process of exchanges.
As the holiday season concludes, now is the time to act on those unwanted gifts. Whether you choose to re-gift, resell, or donate, addressing these items promptly can make a significant difference in managing clutter and promoting sustainability during this festive time.
Stay tuned for more updates and strategies on how to handle your post-holiday gifting dilemmas!
