Christmas has come and gone, and now you’re staring at a pile of gifts that, while wrapped with love, are about as useful to you as a snow globe in the Sahara. Whether it’s the eighth pair of fuzzy socks from Aunt Susan or that questionably scented candle from your Secret Santa, don’t despair! You’ve got options—and no, setting them on fire isn’t one of them (unless it’s that candle). Here’s a handy guide to navigate the world of unwanted gifts with wit, grace, and just a touch of mischief.
Option 1: The Art of the Return
Returning a gift can be a delicate operation. You don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings, but let’s be real: you’re never going to use a cheese fondue set shaped like a cow.
1. Find the Receipt (or Don’t)
If the giver included a gift receipt, congratulations—you’ve won the lottery of polite exits. March into the store like a champion and swap it for something you’ll actually use. No receipt? No problem. Most stores allow returns for store credit, so you can still turn that reindeer sweater into something less…festive.
2. Practice Your Story
If confronted by the gift-giver, always have an excuse ready. “Oh, I loved it so much, but my cat thought the scarf was her mortal enemy and shredded it.” (Never blame yourself—it’s Gift Returning 101.)
Option 2: Mastering the Regift
Regifting gets a bad rap, but it’s actually a form of recycling—and we’re all about saving the planet, right? Done well, regifting can be a win-win. Done poorly, it can turn into a family feud.
1. Keep Track of Who Gave It to You
Nothing says “awkward” like regifting a mug that says “World’s Best Dad” back to the person who gave it to you. Pro tip: slap a sticky note on it with the original giver’s name.
2. Match the Gift to the Person
That hot pink wine tumbler might not be your style, but it could be perfect for your cousin who drinks Rosé like it’s her day job. Regifting works best when the gift genuinely suits the new recipient.
3. Change the Packaging
A fresh box and new wrapping paper can transform even the most obvious regift. Bonus points for writing a heartfelt note about how the gift “made you think of them.” It’s not lying—it’s strategic flattery.
Option 3: The Great Online Hustle
If you’ve ever wanted to channel your inner entrepreneur, now’s your chance. The internet is a magical place where even the ugliest vase can find a buyer.
1. Sell It Online
Websites like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Poshmark are your friends. List the gift with a vague yet enticing description like, “Vintage-inspired sweater—never worn!” Nobody needs to know it came from your grandmother.
2. Be Honest About Its Worth
Sure, you might think that bedazzled tissue box cover is priceless, but be realistic. If it’s not worth much, sell it for a bargain—or bundle it with another gift to sweeten the deal.
Option 4: Donate and Feel Like a Hero
Sometimes, the best thing to do with an unwanted gift is to give it to someone who’ll truly appreciate it.
1. Find the Right Charity
Many shelters, thrift stores, and community centers gladly accept donations of new or gently used items. That pasta maker you’ll never use? It could make someone else’s day.
2. Do It Quickly
Don’t let that gift gather dust in the corner. The sooner you donate it, the sooner it can bring joy to someone else.
Final Thoughts: A Gift’s Journey
Remember, it’s not about the gift—it’s about the thought behind it. (Or so people say when the gift is terrible.) Whether you return, regift, sell, or donate, what matters is that you’re making the most of what you’ve got. So go forth, conquer that post-holiday pile of unwanted treasures, and maybe—just maybe—next year’s gifts will hit the mark. Or not. That’s what this guide is for.
