The festive season is a time for joy, love, and... an avalanche of Christmas presents. While we appreciate the thought behind every gift, let’s be honest, sometimes they’re just not for you. Maybe it’s a sparkly jumper that’s two sizes too small or yet another bath bomb set when you don’t even have a bath.
Marie Kondo’s KonMari philosophy has a wonderfully freeing take on this: the purpose of a gift is fulfilled in the giving and receiving. Once you’ve said your heartfelt thanks, you’re not obligated to keep it forever.
Feeling relieved? You should be. In this post, I’ll share how to handle unwanted gifts gracefully, why it’s okay to let them go, and how to avoid gift-related clutter in the first place.
The Purpose of a Gift
Gifts are a way to say, “I care about you”. That’s it. The thought, the effort, the wrapping—that’s where the magic lies. Once you’ve accepted the gift with genuine gratitude, its job is done. Keeping something that doesn’t spark joy (or fit in your already overstuffed wardrobe or kitchen cupboard) isn’t doing you, or the giver, any favours. Trust me, family members wouldn’t want you to feel burdened or stressed by their gift.
So, what can you do with that quirky egg poacher or pair of stripy toe socks? Give it a new lease of life! Below I've shared 5 guilt-free options... you might even spread some joy in the process.
What To Do With Unwanted Gifts
Sometimes a gift might surprise you! That kitchen gadget you weren’t sure about might save you time (yes an avocado stone remover is quite useful after all!). And those board games your kids didn’t ask for can create some of the best family memories - Cue the inevitable arguments over Monopoly hotels on Park Lane, or discovering that Granny is surprisingly sneaky when playing Cheat!
But if it’s clear the gift isn’t for you after giving it a go, then feel free to move it on. Here are some of my favourite ways to find new homes for unwanted presents.
Return the gift to a shop before the end of January
If you have a gift receipt, make an effort to return the item to the shop before the return period expires.
Some stores allow you to return unwanted items without a receipt in exchange for a gift card that you can use to purchase something you prefer – it’s always worth asking.
Donate to charity and pass the gift on with purpose
That jumper from Aunt Mabel? If it doesn’t fit you (or your style) it’s probably perfect for someone else. Charity shops love good-quality items, and many will send you a letter showing how much your donations helped raise. There’s something comforting about knowing your unwanted gifts have found a home where they’re genuinely appreciated.
Look at my donating and sustainable recycling guide for ideas of where to donate unwanted gifts.
Regift with Thoughtfulness
Regifting is a great way to pass on unwanted gifts. Just be mindful: regifting isn’t about offloading unwanted clutter. It’s about finding someone who will truly appreciate the item. Having a drawer or box of potential gifts is a lifesaver when a birthday creeps up on you.
Donate your unwanted gifts using a community sharing network
Consider donating on Freecycle, OLIO, Nextdoor or a low-waste Facebook group. I’m always surprised how quickly these items are snapped up once they're listed.
Sell the gifts you don't want
Apps like Vinted, eBay or Gumtree are ideal for selling presents that don’t fit in your home. Or you could go old school and do a car boot sale scene (bonus: this may encourage you to declutter other areas of your home at the same time).
Take a look at How to Make Money When You Sell Items Online for a guide to making money from the things you no longer want.
Avoiding Gift Clutter in the Future
If you’re already bracing yourself for a pile of presents, now’s the time to have a gentle conversation with family and friends about gift-giving. Let’s face it: money is tight, space is precious, and nobody wants to create waste.
Be honest with close friends and family about what you’d really appreciate or suggest a ‘no-gift’ Christmas if that feels right. Extended family gift swaps, secret Santas, or pooling funds for a family experience can all help reduce unwanted presents. The best gift, in my opinion, is spending time together without the stress of clutter.
Clutter-Free Gift Ideas
If giving gifts is part of your holiday joy, opt for clutter-free ones that fit the recipient’s lifestyle. Experience gifts, like tickets to a show, a meal out, or a spa day create lasting memories without taking up space. Learning gifts, such as online classes or workshops, are also thoughtful options (and they don’t need to be dusted!). Take a look at my guide to gifting 20 free clutter free gifts.
Enjoy a Festive Season Free of Guilt and Clutter
Once you’ve enjoyed Christmas this year, give yourself permission to let go of any gifts that don’t serve you. By passing them on, you’ll free up your home whilst also spreading a little joy. And remember, the holidays are about more than the presents under the tree - it’s the time spent with loved ones (even if it’s arguing over who ate all the Quality Street).
If you’re ready to take control of your home and live with more intention, explore the blog for more tips. Let’s make 2025 a year of living A Life More Organised!
Hi! I’m Sue, a professional home organiser and KonMari Consultant based in Hampshire, UK. I had the privilege of training with Marie Kondo and by using her methods, I help growing families and empty nesters Rightsize their Homes.
We declutter and organise to clear space and time so they can get on with the important job of enjoying life.
Are you ready to start living A Life More Organised?
For a no-obligation chat about how I can help, please get in touch.
m: 07740 782575 www.alifemoreorganised.co.uk
I'd love to keep in touch - why not follow me on Instagram or join in the conversation in my Facebook group
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