Five guilt-free ways to deal with unwanted Christmas presents
Each year, Christmas brings joy, laughter, and for many Australians, gifts that miss the mark.
Nearly 9 million people (42%) admit they've unwrapped a truly terrible present, according to Finder, with examples ranging from avocado holders to novelty toilet seats featuring Santa's face. Last year alone, more than $1 billion worth of gifts ended up in landfill.
This year, despite cost-of-living pressures, Australians are still spending big. Research from the Australian Retailers Association shows total gift spending is forecast to rise slightly to $12 billion, up $200 million (1.7%) on last year, with shoppers averaging $757 each.
With budgets stretched and waste already high, the risk of unwanted gifts could be even greater.
If you've found yourself on the receiving end of something questionable, don't despair. Instead of letting it gather dust or head to landfill, here are five ways to give unwanted gifts a second life.
1. Return unwanted Christmas presents
As the saying goes, keep your friends close, your enemies closer, and your receipts for major purchases closest of all.
That way, you can exchange the gift for something you'll use or love - because who knows you, better than you?
While not all presents will come with a gift receipt, it won't hurt to ask the giver (gently) for one.
When it comes to actually returning a gift, some retailers are flexible and may offer a store credit or even a refund, but be aware of conditions - especially for sale or online purchases.
Pro tip: Keep the tags on, the packaging intact, and try to return gifts promptly. If one staff member isn't helpful, politely ask to speak to a manager.
2. Regift thoughtfully
While Christmas itself may conjure up a sense of nostalgia, the last thing you'll want is the awkward realisation that you've just unwrapped the very present you regifted last year.
Even so, one in five (21%) admitted to regifting Christmas presents, with 12% relabelling multiple gifts under the tree.
Rebecca Pike, money expert at Finder, re-gifting has become routine: "What was once considered a social faux pas has now become commonplace."
If you're confident someone else will appreciate the gift, save it for a future occasion. Just make sure it's in mint condition and keep a note of who gave it to you to avoid any embarrassing moments of déjà vu.
Another idea is to set up a gift swap with friends or family, or to explore online swap groups to find someone who will truly enjoy it. Again, make sure you regift in different friend circles though.
Pro tip: Online sites such as Draw Names Australia and White Elephant Rules can help facilitate these gift swapping parties.
3. Sell unwanted gifts online
While you might not be thrilled with what you unwrapped, one person's "meh" is likely to be another's treasure.
Use platforms like Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace, or eBay to sell your unwanted gifts. It's a simple way to declutter and make some extra cash.
Better yet, you could consider giving away any unwanted gifts for free.
There are many local community pages on Facebook that only allow for free items to be posted. Pay it forward and spread the Christmas cheer to someone else.
Pro tip: High-quality photos and clear descriptions will attract more buyers.
4. Donate presents that missed the mark
While Christmas is a joyous time for some, the thought of spending money on gifts is simply not an option for many.
Organisations like the Salvation Army and Oxfam run holiday appeals, and others urgently need support.
Barnardos Australia is collecting toys for kids who might otherwise miss out. With only 14% of their target met and just two weeks to go, your donation could be a child's first Christmas gift.
GIVIT is another that focuses on refugees escaping war and terrorism.
Charities also welcome new, unused items like clothes, toiletries, and household goods. Organisations such as Every Little Bit Helps and local Vinnies accept donations year-round.
Pro tip: Avoid expired products or those with less than 12 months before expiry. Your generosity can turn someone's Christmas into a moment of hope.
5. Get creative and repurpose
If you're still struggling to find a home for an unwanted gift then it may be time to think outside the box. Can you transform it into something you'll actually use?
Take an outdated candleholder for one. Could you turn it into a quirky pen stand? Or perhaps that oversized scarf could be used as a stylish table runner?
Gifted jewellery you wouldn't wear? Keep it for an arts project. And those ugly Christmas sweaters? Well, if worst comes to worst, there's always a New Years wine spill that needs soaking up.
Don't be afraid to get creative and remember, it's all in the spirit of recycling - just don't tell the person who gifted it to you.
Pro tip: There's no shortage of videos and sites across the web offering inspiration for reusing and repurposing everyday items.
What's your tip for dealing with unwanted Christmas presents? Let us know in the comments.
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