Christmas is a season of giving, and it really is the thought that counts. When a person includes you on their gift list, it's a signal that they value you and want to show that affection, no matter what the gift is. Sharing thoughtful presents with your loved ones that show how well you know each other, and how much you care for each other, is the true spirit of the season.

But that said, Christmas is also a time when you'll often get a gift from someone who doesn't know you that well – think of corporate gifts and office Secret Santas, or the presents you get when you've joined a family's festivities for the first time as your partner's plus-one. Some presents will be welcome and useful, but others might not suit your taste or your needs. Instead of letting those items gather dust, why not make the most of them?

5 creative solutions for unwanted gifts

Whether you need extra cash, want to declutter, or feel inspired to pay it forward, there are plenty of smart, creative ways to deal with unwanted Christmas gifts.

1. Turn it into cash
 

Getting through the weeks between the festive season and payday at the end of January can seem like surviving the hardest level in a video game. Selling unwanted gifts can help ease the financial pressure and ensure that you don't start the new year gathering clutter.

You can advertise the items for sale on social media marketing pages or a reputable online private sales platform. Be cautious to avoid scams and ensure your safety. Never share personal details like your home address – rather meet buyers in a public place. If they are paying by EFT, don't hand over any items until the payment has appeared in your bank account, even if they send a proof-of-payment SMS.

2. Try to exchange it

If you know where the gift was bought, go to the store and see if they will exchange it for an item of the same value that you prefer. Stores generally offer exchanges or refunds only if you have the original sales slip, which you won't have for a gift. However, you might be granted some leeway in the weeks after Christmas, especially if the item is sold exclusively in that store, and you've kept it undamaged in its original packaging.

The store is under no obligation to offer you an exchange, though – this will depend entirely on company policy, the staff on duty, and to an extent, your attitude when asking for the favour. If they are prepared to let you exchange the gift as a gesture of goodwill, but there's nothing else in their stock that you really want, ask if they will exchange it for a gift card to the same value. That way, you can redeem it the next time they have something that you like.

3. Pass it on to someone who will love it
 

There's nothing wrong with regifting. It's a sustainable, budget-friendly way to survive tough times while spreading some love. We all have different tastes, and even if you don't like the gift you received, you might have a friend or family member who'd love it.

If you've received a present that doesn't appeal to you but immediately makes you think of someone else who'd be thrilled to get it, hold onto it for their birthday, or next Christmas. Instead of leaving it unused and forgotten in a drawer for years, you could use it to make someone else's day.

4. Donate to a good cause
 

Start off the year with a declutter. You'll be shocked by just how much you've accumulated over a year without realising it, as you changed your style or upgraded appliances without getting rid of the older stuff. Instead of adding unwanted Christmas presents to take up even more space, gather everything you no longer want that is still usable and in good condition, and donate it to a local hospice or charity shop.

5. Repurpose it
 

Sometimes, you may not love a gift for its intended purpose, but it could prove useful with a little reimagining. A scarf with a pattern that you wouldn't necessarily wear could look great as a tablecloth or runner, and a mug that doesn't quite fit your style can be used as a cute planter for small succulents or herbs.

With a few DIY skills, you could convert a beautiful vase into a unique lamp base. You'll be amazed at just how much you can achieve with a can of spray paint and some imagination. You could even discover a new love for arts, crafts and DIY, which could turn into a new hobby or side hustle.

Give a gift that they'll love

Avoid the risk of giving a gift that misses the mark. With an Avo voucher from Avo SuperShop, your loved ones can choose exactly what they want – from tech devices and appliances to fashion and home furnishings. It's the perfect way to save everyone from the awkwardness of unwanted presents. Make gifting smarter with Avo.