What Are the Do’s and Don’ts When It Comes to Regifting

Thinking about passing on an unwanted gift to someone else?  This can be a practical way to reduce waste and save money. However, it comes with risks, from hurt feelings to social faux pas. At ReviewHug, we believe in thoughtful giving, so here are the do’s and don’ts of regifting to ensure it’s done respectfully and legally.

Do: Ensure the Item Is Unused and Appropriate

Only regift items that are new, unopened, and in their original packaging. Used or damaged goods can offend recipients and signal a lack of effort. Also, make sure the gift suits the recipient’s tastes and needs. For example, regifting a kitchen gadget to a cooking enthusiast is thoughtful, but giving it to someone who rarely cooks might feel careless. Thoughtfulness is key to avoiding hurt feelings.

Don’t: Regift Within the Same Social Circle

Avoid regifting to someone who knows the original giver, as this can lead to awkwardness or embarrassment. Imagine regifting a scarf from Aunt Jane to Cousin Mike, only for Jane to spot it at a family gathering. To prevent such scenarios, keep track of who gave you the item and choose recipients outside that circle. Privacy and discretion are essential.

Do: Remove All Traces of the Original Giver

Before regifting, check for gift tags, notes, or personalized messages. Leaving behind evidence of the original giver is a major faux pas and can make the recipient feel undervalued. Double-check packaging and contents to ensure no traces remain. At ReviewHug, we encourage uploading photos of items to share honest reviews, but never reveal private details about previous owners.

Don’t: Regift Sentimental or Personalized Items

Items with sentimental value, like handmade crafts or engraved jewelry, should never be regifted. These gifts carry emotional weight, and passing them on can hurt the original giver’s feelings. Similarly, avoid regifting items tailored to you, like monogrammed bags. Respect the intent behind the gift and find another way to repurpose it.

Regifting can be ethical and eco-friendly if done thoughtfully. Follow these do’s and don’ts to ensure your regift is appreciated, not regretted. Have regifting tips or stories? Share them on ReviewHug, we’d love to hear from you!

Disclaimer: All information is based on general etiquette and consumer trends. Always consider personal relationships and cultural norms when regifting.