As the holiday season approaches, many of us will inevitably receive gifts that don’t quite hit the mark. In fact, a recent survey revealed that 61% of people find themselves in this situation. The most common culprits are clothing and accessories, followed by household items and beauty products. So, if you find yourself with a gift that you don’t want, is it acceptable to pass it along to someone who might appreciate it?
Let’s clarify: is regifting during the holidays socially acceptable, or is it seen as tacky? Should we always opt for new purchases, or is there a place for secondhand gifts? With that unwanted apple cinnamon candle from your neighbor or Aunt Judy’s itchy sweater, it’s worth considering the regifting option. Holding onto gifts we’ll never use doesn’t help anyone—31% of people do this. So, could regifting actually be the way to go?
According to an advocate for sustainability, Mia Patterson, regifting has numerous benefits. First, it helps reduce waste by keeping unwanted items out of landfills. With climate change being a pressing issue, every little bit counts. Disposing of perfectly usable items is disrespectful to the environment. Additionally, by regifting or purchasing second-hand, we can save money during a time when many are feeling financial strain due to the pandemic.
There’s also something special about passing along an item that has a backstory. For instance, gifting a unique vintage piece not only gives it a new life but also carries its history forward. If the recipient has admired that item for a while, they will surely appreciate your thoughtfulness in sharing it.
Essential Tips for Regifting Gracefully
Now that we’ve established the positive aspects of regifting, let’s discuss how to do it gracefully. Here are some essential tips:
- Avoid Damaged Items: If a gift is broken, stained, or worn out, it’s best not to pass it on—unless it’s a vintage piece that’s intentionally distressed. Ensure that all cosmetic items and food are within their expiration dates.
- Skip Personalized Gifts: This one’s a no-brainer—don’t regift anything that has your name or initials on it, unless you and the recipient share the same monogram. Always inspect for any inscriptions that might reveal the original gift-giver.
- Know the Recipient’s Taste: If you’re unsure whether a certain gift will resonate with the person you’re considering, it’s better to hold onto it or donate it. You don’t want to pass on something that could be a misfit.
- Be Mindful of Feelings: If you can’t remember who gave you the gift, it’s safer not to regift it. Also, avoid regifting in situations where the original giver might see it, as this could lead to awkwardness.
- Encourage Regifting: There’s no shame in regifting, as long as it’s done thoughtfully. By sharing your own regifting experiences, you might inspire others to do the same, creating a new tradition of sustainable gifting.
Are you holding onto items that you don’t want or need? With the goal of reducing waste and saving money, consider regifting instead of letting those gifts gather dust. When you’re ready to embrace the regifting culture, check out Regift Revolution, where you can sign their petition and even enter to win exciting regifted prizes. If you’re interested in home insemination, you can find great resources like this one on artificial insemination kits, and for further insights, UCSF offers excellent information on pregnancy and family planning.
Summary
This holiday season, regifting can be a thoughtful and eco-friendly option if done correctly. By following key guidelines—such as avoiding damaged or personalized items and being mindful of the recipient’s taste—you can share gifts that keep giving while also being considerate of the environment.