Let’s be honest, we have all had that gift that we just don’t need or we really don’t want. What do we do with it? Pass it on to the next unsuspecting soul? Mother always taught us to never waste so why not give it somebody else? This Christmas, there is going to be quite a lot of this but bwfore you head into your wrapping, here are a few rules you’ll need to keep in mind before re-gifting anything:
- Never Regift Anything Meaningful or Handmade
If you know that someone took extra time to locate or make a gift for you, it’s really bad form to give it away. For example, if your sister worked hard to make a wall hanging for your home, she’d probably be upset if she knew that you gave it to someone else.
The same goes for meaningful gifts: If the giver makes comments about taking the time to choose the perfect gift or seems really excited to give you something, acknowledge that effort and keep it. No, you might not really need that first edition book, but you can appreciate the time and thought that went into finding and purchasing it.
- Regift Outside Your Circle of Friends
Say your friend Angela gives you a piece of exercise equipment that you don’t want. You, in turn, hand it off to your mutual friend Mike. Imagine how Angela would feel if she were at Mike’s house and spotted the gift she gave you in the corner. In addition to being awkward, it can be downright hurtful to the original giver.
If you want to regift, make sure there’s no way the original giver could discover the regifting. That way, there aren’t any hurt feelings because the original gift-giver doesn’t know that the item has found a new home elsewhere.
- Only Regift Brand-New Items
This should go without saying, but items should only be regifted if they are brand new and contained within the original packaging. If you’ve opened the package or have used an item, it’s best to keep it. Regifting used items, whatever the condition, is bad etiquette – and while you can still give them away, don’t frame it as a “gift.” Instead, for example, you can say, “Hey, I got this CD but I’m not really a fan. Do you want it?” By letting the recipient know that the item has been used and offering him or her the option to pass, you can still give the item away without looking thoughtless.
- Regift Thoughtfully
Don’t simply regift an item to get rid of it. Regift when you know it’s the ideal item for someone you love.
Say you get a new Crock-Pot. You already have one and don’t need it, but you remember that your mom’s Crock-Pot is cracked. Regifting makes sense, because the gift is something she wants and needs. The same Crock-Pot, even if it’s brand new and in the original packaging, might not make sense for your brother if he hates cooking.
- Check for Signs of a Regift
Even if something is still new and in its original box, there could be a few telltale signs that an item has been regifted. And since feelings about receiving a regifted item can be complicated (someone might be offended that you didn’t purchase something new, even if they really like the gift), it’s important to remove all signs that you were the original recipient.
- Don’t Wait for a Special Occasion
Regifts often seem like they’re more acceptable when it’s simply a spontaneous surprise. Regifting a vacuum as a wedding present can seem tacky, only because a marriage is a significant milestone in someone’s life, and should be celebrated accordingly with a thoughtful, helpful, and generous gift. Therefore, regifting goes over a little better when it’s simply spur-of-the-moment. If, somehow, the recipient finds out the item was regifted, it’s no big deal – it was a “just because” gift.
- When in Doubt, Regift to Charity
Stuck with something you don’t love? Instead of trying to give it to a friend or family member, you can always “regift” to charity. Organizations such as the Salvation Army, Goodwill, Habitat for Humanity, and Toys for Tots all accept new items. And be sure to collect your donation receipt so you can receive a tax deduction for your charitable giving.
- Never Regift Food
Regifting a bottle of wine is no big deal, but if someone gave you baked goods or treats, don’t regift them. The food could be spoiled, thanks to dust and moisture – think about that box of chocolates you didn’t eat on Valentine’s Day. If you received a gift of food you know you won’t consume, it’s best to just share it ASAP. Bringing cupcakes to work can make you the office hero, and they won’t sit on your kitchen counter and tempt you for days.
