Is Regifting Rude? When It's Fine and How to Do It

Quick answer

Regifting isn't rude if the gift is new, suits the new person and couldn't hurt the original giver's feelings. Keep it to a different social circle, remove any tags or notes, and never regift something personal, handmade, used or chosen especially for you. If a gift doesn't suit anyone you know, you can exchange it, donate it or pass it on to a charity shop instead.

Almost everyone has received a gift they won't use: a second copy of a book, a candle in a scent they dislike, a gadget they already own. Keeping it in a cupboard feels wasteful. Passing it on feels a little risky.

Regifting can be a sensible, even generous choice, as long as it's done with care. This guide explains when it's fine, when it isn't, how to do it well, and what else to do with gifts you don't want.

Key takeaways

Regifting is fine when the gift is new and right for the new person.
Never regift within the same circle as the original giver.
Don't regift handmade, personalized or obviously chosen-for-you gifts.
Remove tags, cards and any trace of the original giver.
Exchanging or donating is often better than regifting a poor fit.

When regifting is fine

It's new and unused, in its original packaging.
It suits the new person. You'd be happy to give it even if you'd bought it.
The original giver won't find out, or wouldn't mind if they did.
It's a general item, like a candle, chocolates, a book or a kitchen tool, not something chosen just for you.
It's not out of date. Check food, candles and beauty products.

Many gift exchanges, like White Elephant swaps, happily accept regifts, and some groups even make it the rule.

When not to regift

Handmade gifts, which someone made for you with time and care.
Personalized gifts, with your name, initials or a message.
Family heirlooms or anything with sentimental history.
Used or opened items.
Within the same circle as the giver, like the same office, family or friend group.
Expired or dated items, like last year's calendar or old chocolates.
Something you'd be embarrassed to admit was a regift, if asked.

How to regift well

Keep a note of who gave you each gift, so you never give it back to them or their friends.
Check it carefully for cards, tags, inscriptions or gift receipts with the original giver's name.
Rewrap it in fresh paper or a new bag.
Make sure it fits the person. A regift should still be a thoughtful choice.
Add something small of your own, like a card or a treat, if it feels a little plain.

Should you say it's a regift?

Sometimes honesty works well: "I was given two of these and thought of you straight away" is perfectly kind among close friends and family. In more formal situations, there's no need to mention it, as long as the gift is new and well chosen. Never claim you chose or made something you didn't.

Other things to do with unwanted gifts

Exchange it, using a gift receipt if there is one.
Donate it to a charity shop, shelter, toy drive or food bank.
Give it to a school or club, for raffles, prizes or craft supplies.
Swap it with friends at a gift swap party.
Keep it for a gift exchange, like an office White Elephant or a raffle.

Avoid selling a gift online where the giver might see it.

How to make your own gifts less likely to be regifted

The best way to avoid unwanted gifts is to choose carefully and include a gift receipt. Gifts that get used up, like food and drinks, experiences and gift cards for places people already go are rarely regifted. See how to choose a gift for someone you don't know well and how to make a gift more personal.

What if someone finds out?

Be honest and kind. Explain that you thought it would suit the new person better and that you wanted it to be enjoyed. Most people understand. If you've regifted someone's handmade or personal gift, a sincere apology is the right response.

Frequently asked questions