Regifting 101

"More Presents!" by Aaron Jacobs is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Let’s say “your friend” received a gift that he or she will absolutely never use, has a duplicate of, or straight up does not like at all. Said friend also happens to know someone who could actually use or like this gift, and gives it to this person instead...that’s fine, right? We have all been there at one point or another - the temptation to regift. When is this okay? What precautions should we take? Apartment Therapy offers this advice:

1. No used gifts — Let's get this out of the way right now: if you've clearly opened the packaging or have worn your gift, it's no longer a candidate for a regift. End of story. You're not fooling anyone with that scotch tape on the box, so if you've tried it out and then decided you don't want it after all, into the donation pile it goes.

2. Keep good records — Let's all avoid the nightmare of getting caught in a regift. Keep good notes about who gave you what so you can avoid regifting it right back to them (or their mom, sister or best friend). We all know how word gets around in some families and offices so a recipient in a different sector of your circle is ideal.

3. Regift only when appropriate — That is, if you would BUY this item for this specific person and you just happen to have received one, then by all means pass it along. Make sure your motivation is pure — you truly think this person would really love this gift, you're not just trying to clean out your stash. You may need to let some time pass to let the "regift" stigma lessen and to find exactly the right recipient.

4. Don't mention it's a regift — This may seem obvious but you'd be surprised how often someone accidentally spills the beans. If you've done your job in choosing a gift (see above) then they'll probably be delighted to open your pick and all you need to do is smile and say "you're welcome."

5. Or, do — If you feel awkward about regifting, there's no rule that says you need to pass it off like a purchased present. If you know someone who would appreciate this gift more, feel free to say something like, "This gift just isn't my style but I thought you might really enjoy it." See? Still thoughtful without a hint of deception.