We all mean well when we give gifts, but not every present is a hit. Some things are just destined to sit in a closet or cupboard until we find the perfect chance to pass them along. And honestly? There is no shame in the re-gifting game. It’s better than letting things go to waste. Here are 12 of the most common things people admit online that they re-gift year after year.
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Scented candles
Candles are always a safe bet for people who have no idea what to get. But no matter how adorable they are, how many “vanilla sugar” or “holiday spice” candles does one person really need? They’re cute, but they’re also top of the re-gift pile.
Bath sets or body lotions
Pretty shower gels, bath bombs, and lotions are often more about the packaging than the contents, and all those mini bottles can add up fast. Plus, let’s be honest, sometimes they just sit on your bathroom shelf and collect dust. It’s easy to rewrap and gift to someone who actually loves bath time.
Wine or liquor bottles
Not a fan of red wine or fancy gin? No worries. These bottles are practically made for re-gifting. They’re the perfect “host gift” when you need something last-minute for a dinner party.
Holiday mugs
Holiday mugs are a mug-nificient opportunity for re-gifting. Do you actually need a Christmas mug with the face of Santa Claus? Chances are, if it’s not your taste, it will end up under someone else’s tree next year.
Gift baskets
Fruit baskets, cheese boxes, or decadent chocolate towers all make great gifts in theory, but sometimes you’ll find they get set on your kitchen counter and left to sit there, untouched. Passing them on is a sneaky (but smart) way to avoid waste.
Books you didn’t pick out
This self-help book won’t be your “beach read” this summer, and you know you’ll never read that mystery thriller. No problem. Into the re-gift stash it goes. Because somebody out there will want it.
Picture frames
Picture frames are so thoughtful, but what if they don’t really fit your home decor, or you already have five dozen of them? Fun to wrap up again, and great to give as a wedding, housewarming, or baby shower gift.
Kitchen gadgets
Mini waffle maker? Fancy wine opener? Random popcorn maker? They are fun gifts, but not always useful. And when they’re still in the box months later, they’re prime re-gift material.
Notebooks or planners
Stationery geeks aside, most people can only use so many notebooks or planners in a given year. The good news? They’re easy to pass along to coworkers or friends.
Coffee or tea samplers
It’s a fun idea, but if you’re a straight-up black coffee or one-tea-type person, those fancy sampler packs will often just gather dust on your counter or shelf. Pass them on to someone who loves to mix things up.
Scarves or gloves
Cozy accessories are sweet gifts. But if it’s not your color, not your vibe, or you already own ten pairs, off they go to brighten someone else’s winter.
Holiday-themed decor
Gifts like snow globes, nutcrackers, and little light-up trees are cute, but not everyone has room (or the taste) for extra holiday decor. They are perfect for passing along to that super festive friend or relative.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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