The holiday season brings an enthusiastic exchange of gifts, but a less cheerful reality emerges after the festivities end – gift returns. While it’s true that all gifts are unique and it’s the thought that counts, some gifts serve no purpose and end up collecting dust. Many studies indicate a notable surge in gift returns for items that failed to hit the mark. Some of the most common gifts that are commonly returned are as follows:

Cosmetics
When it comes to gifting cosmetics, foundations and primers top the list of most-returned items. The main challenge in gifting cosmetics is selecting the right shades and ingredients that suit the lifestyle and preferences of the receiver. These items are highly personalized, so foundations, primers, concealers, and powders are best avoided as Christmas gifts. Instead, one can opt for safer choices like eyeshadows and brushes, as these beauty essentials give variety in one package and are usually standard across different brands.

Clothes
The clothing exchange often stems from sizing issues, different color preferences, evolving styles, and fashion preferences. Since sizes cannot be visually gauged, giving clothing as a gift can be tricky. An e-commerce platform’s figures revealed that one of its most exchanged gifts was men’s dress shirts, and the primary reason for returns was sizing problems.

T-shirts with printed graphics and quotes
Graphic t-shirts often find their way back to the store, particularly those that flaunt garish quotes, attitude-related taglines, humorous quotes, or famous lines from a show. The challenge here lies in predicting the recipient’s sense of humor and whether the chosen graphic will resonate with them. It’s best to avoid gifting graphic printed tees to play it safe.

Athletic apparel
Even though the recipient may be a fitness enthusiast, athletic clothing is an absolute non-gifting item. This is because sizing, style, and brand preferences can be highly personal. In addition, material sensitivity or specific functional requirements for workout attire can vary from person to person. Instead, one can consider gifting fitness trackers, athletic hats, socks, and other accessories to gym enthusiasts. These items are far less likely to be returned since they offer more flexibility in style and size without compromising on the sporty theme.

Toddler clothing
When selecting clothing items for toddlers, sizing issues are a common reason for returns. Toddlers outgrow onesies quickly, making them impractical gifts. Those looking to buy Christmas presents for kids and toddlers can choose more thoughtful options like toys, playmats, or books. These will cater to a child’s development and eliminate the sizing dilemma.

Art pieces
Art is a personal choice. Each individual has different opinions on art and may have varied tastes. So, larger art pieces or paintings are best left to the receiver’s decision. Moreover, avoiding gifting art pieces prevents the recipient from feeling awkward about displaying a large painting they don’t like or potentially hurting the giver’s feelings by returning it.

Kitchen appliances
Although undeniably practical, kitchen appliances, such as toasters, kettles, and coffee machines, frequently face the prospect of being returned. Firstly, these appliances occupy a lot of space. Secondly, they are deemed futile if the recipient already owns a similar product that meets their needs. So, while a food processor could make a thoughtful gift for newlyweds or first-time homeowners, for others, it may not be a necessary addition. So, unless explicitly requested, individuals should avoid gifting these kitchen gadgets.

Shoes
In a survey by MarketTools, a market research company, clothing and shoes have accounted for a significant 62% of holiday gift returns. Shoes, in particular, are often returned due to differences in fashion sizes, varied tastes, and issues related to comfort. Color preferences also play a role, as the chosen shade may not align with the recipient’s style.

Scented candles
Scented candles, a popular gift choice, often find their way back due to personal scent preferences. Many recipients may not appreciate strong, sweet-smelling fragrances, leading to returns. The subjective nature of scent makes it a challenging gift option, as individual tastes vary widely.

Skincare products
Allergies to specific chemicals or formulations in skincare items can lead to discomfort and dissatisfaction, making skincare products a risky gift choice. The variability in skin types and sensitivities is a significant reason skincare products make a wrong gift choice.

Tools
Gifting tools, such as a new drill set or a multi-purpose screwdriver, can be a hit or miss. The giver may risk offering a tool the recipient already owns or one that doesn’t align with their needs. So, unless the recipient has requested this particular gift, it’s best to steer clear of these practical but potentially uninspiring presents.

Video games
Regarding video games, returns are not uncommon, often stemming from issues like incompatibility with the recipient’s gaming console or PC, mismatched genre preferences, or the likelihood that the recipient already owns the game. With the dynamic nature of the gaming industry, it has become a pretty well-intentioned but incompatible gifting choice.

Home decor
Home decor items frequently face the challenge of being returned due to their personal and subjective nature. Such gifts take up a sizable space in the house, and people tend to be highly selective about what must adorn their living spaces. As a result, one should leave the decision-making of home decor to the recipient.