UPDATE: Millions of people across the UK are faced with the dilemma of what to do with unwanted Christmas gifts as the holiday season ends. With an estimated £42 million worth of unwanted presents thrown away annually, experts are urging recipients to consider sustainable alternatives to simply discarding these items.
Just announced: Dawn-Maria France from North Yorkshire has a simple solution—pass them on. “The post-Christmas period is the perfect time to regift,” she states, emphasizing that it’s a guilt-free way to declutter while promoting sustainability. In her experience, regifting not only helps friends but also lightens the burden on landfills.
As the cost-of-living crisis tightens budgets, many are turning to reselling or donating unwanted gifts. Kirsty Quinn from Oxfordshire shares her success in making up to £500 a month by selling unused items online. “If it’s something you won’t use, passing it on or selling it benefits everyone,” she explains, highlighting the importance of practicality in today’s economic climate.
In a developing trend, platforms like Vinted report a surge in listings of unwanted gifts, especially on the first Sunday of the new year, with activity averaging three times the normal daily rate. Last year’s top resold items included women’s toiletries, jewelry, and electronics, making it clear that many are opting for a second chance at gift-giving.
Important advice: Etiquette experts like Antoinette Akanji recommend regifting items outside your social circle to avoid awkward encounters. “If your aunt gives you a jumper, don’t pass it to your cousin,” she warns, stressing that it’s vital to ensure the original giver and the new recipient do not cross paths.
However, the regifting process requires caution. Louise Minchin, presenter of BBC’s Rip Off Britain, advises checking for any labels or notes that could expose the gift’s origins. “I’ve been caught out,” admits Reverend Kate Bottley, recalling a time she forgot to remove a card before passing on a gift.
For those who prefer not to regift, donating to charity is another impactful option. Allison Swaine-Hughes from the British Heart Foundation encourages people to donate unwanted items to charity shops, which are eagerly awaiting post-Christmas contributions. “Let your unwanted gifts bring joy to someone else,” she urges, pointing out that shopping at charity stores can also uncover unexpected treasures.
Next steps: If you’re giving gifts this season, consider including a gift receipt. Louise Minchin states that this gives recipients more options, especially for high-value items. “Being open about exchanges can save everyone discomfort,” she adds.
As people navigate the post-holiday rush, the conversation around unwanted gifts is growing. With sustainable practices and community-focused solutions in the spotlight, it’s time for everyone to rethink their approach to holiday presents. The urgency to act NOW is clear, as the conversation about waste and sustainability continues to evolve.
In summary, whether you choose to regift, sell, or donate, the key takeaway is to take action with unwanted gifts instead of letting them gather dust. As the world becomes increasingly aware of waste, your choices can make a significant difference.
