Rather than donating, selling or giving away unwanted presents, could you simply ask the giver to take it back? This is a common question people have, particularly if they don’t want to risk receiving the same type of gift again. Surely telling the person you don’t like it and asking them to return it is the best option?
Here, we’ll look at whether it is ever OK to ask someone to take their present back. You will also discover more about correct gift-receiving etiquette.
Should You Ask Them to Take the Gift Back?
The short and simple answer here is no. It isn’t polite to ask someone to return a gift, especially if it is something sentimental. Think about it; they took the time to find, pay for and wrap a present for you. By asking them to return it, it could really hurt their feelings, or show that you aren’t grateful for the present.
The only time it would be acceptable to ask them to take it back would be if it was clothing and you needed a different size. Or, if you want to do it tactfully, you could ask them if they have the receipt so you can switch it for a different color, size or type.
Let them know you love the gift but it just isn’t quite right, so you’d just like to switch it. If they give you the receipt and you simply get rid of it without switching, you run the risk of the gift-giver finding out and realizing you didn’t like the gift.
What If the Gift Is Expensive?
Perhaps you want them to take the gift back because it is expensive? When you receive an expensive gift, you may feel like you need to buy them an expensive gift in return. If you don’t have the money to do that, asking them to take the gift back might seem like the best option.
The trouble is, they likely didn’t think about the cost when they bought it. If you explain you don’t have a lot of money to spend, they are sure to understand. It isn’t about the value of the gift; it is about the meaning behind it. So, accept the gift graciously and don’t feel bad if you can’t get them something equally as expensive.
Always Say Thank You
Whatever the reason for wanting them to take back the gift, it’s important to always say thank you. You might not like it or need it, but you need to show your appreciation for the thought behind the present.
Think of how you would feel if you gave someone a gift and they then asked you to take it back. It wouldn’t be a nice feeling. So, say thank you, regardless of how you feel, and if you don’t want it you can always get rid of it later.
So, the answer to whether it is ever OK to ask someone to take it back is no. Follow the guidelines above to ensure you stick to the correct gift-receiving etiquette.
