The Best Things to Do With Unwanted Gifts

Receiving an unwanted gift during the holidays is basically a rite of passage. It's a very common experience, and contrary to what your subconscious might be telling you, it does not make you a bad person. It just means that a particular item doesn't speak to your tastes, and that's totally okay—but what to do next?

After Christmas Day has passed, all the presents unwrapped and the eggnog consumed, it's time to think about what to do with any gifts you received that might not exactly light your innermost fires. There are many routes to take, and a few of them stand out to us as the most gracious and utilitarian ways to handle receiving unwanted gifts.

Keep scrolling to read our guide on what to do with your unwanted gifts this holiday season! 

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(Image credit: Simone LeBlanc)

While you should never feel guilty for not liking a gift—you're entitled to your own tastes!—it's important to acknowledge that while you might not care for it, there are plenty of other people who would. There are a ton of charity organizations out there that will happily accept all the sweaters, socks, and any other items you received that you might not want. 

Goodwill, The Salvation Army, and Operation Supply Drop are just a few examples.

Regift them

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(Image credit: Rumfield Homestead)

If you receive a gift that immediately makes you think of someone else who would love it, then regifting is a totally plausible option. But do refer to our handy regifting rulebook for some simple guidelines to make sure nobody's feelings get hurt!

Sell them on eBay

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(Image credit: Apartment 34)

If you're trying to make some extra cash, reselling your unused, unwanted gifts is another route you can take. eBay continues to be a lucrative business for so many entrepreneurial minds, and if your gift is in good condition, you stand to make a decent profit!

What's your go-to strategy for dealing with unwanted gifts during the holidays? Share below in the comments!

Meghan Blalock
Managing Editor

Hailing from the heart of the South and cutting her teeth on the mean streets of New York, Meghan has six years of experience covering fashion, style, celebrities, culture, and human behavior. A longtime devotee of rap music, tacos, and generally perfect weather, she is excited to put down roots in Los Angeles. Her top three style staples are a good pair of cutoff shorts, virtually any kind of colorful digi-print, and a solid set of shades.