Christmas presents you should reconsider
Let's be honest: we all love to receive gifts. But then we have those nightmares of getting the worst presents possible, and it's a struggle to pretend you're happy with them. Also, everyone has been in the position where they don’t know what to gift someone. That's when trouble happens, and we end up getting them something they clearly won't like.
To save yourself from the embarrassment, click through the slides in this gallery to discover the holiday gifts no one really wants.
Exercise equipment
It's fine to gift exercise equipment if you're dealing with a personal trainer or fitness junkie. If not, you risk unintentionally insulting someone.
Calendar
Let's be real: calendars are office supplies, not presents. And nowadays they're not even useful, as more people use digital calendars.
Cash
Older kids or teens might want cash, but giving grown adults money can be painfully awkward. And extremely impersonal as well.
Cosmetics
Anything that has to do with personal care or hygiene is also among the worst gifts. It basically sends the message that it's all the recipient deserves. For example, imagine getting a wrinkle cream.
Cleaning supplies
Cleaning isn't fun, and cleaning supplies aren't a gift. Your friends and family are going to wonder what you're really trying to say if they were to open them as a gift.
Lingerie
Lingerie is romantic if you're giving it privately to your significant other. But if you're giving it to your niece, then that's just weird!
Ugly holiday sweater
Ugly holiday sweaters might be fun for parties, but they can also make horrible gifts. So don't bother!
Fruitcake
Fruitcakes are simply not fresh. Skip the store-bought boxed cakes and opt for literally any other baked good.
Souvenirs
It doesn't matter if they visited the place or not. They probably don't need a tacky magnet to celebrate your experience.
Perfume
Most people are picky about how they smell, and they might not like certain scents. So, unless you know the perfume someone loves, avoid this gift at all costs.
Socks
While it might not be the worst holiday present, it's just too practical and boring. Also, this gift is a clear giveaway that someone has no clue what you like.
Air fresheners
At least candles have some built-in, seasonal sentimentality. But gifting someone an air freshener is like saying their house stinks...
Cheap candy and chocolate
If your gift is going to be edible, it better be quality stuff. This might mean spending a little bit extra.
Random gift cards
If you’re going the gift card route, you better pick a shop or a place that the person likes or uses. No point in getting a gas card for someone who doesn't drive!
Throw pillows
There's a big chance that those throw pillows you picked up won't be in line with the tastes of the person you’re gifting. And now they have to bring them out every time you visit...
Hand-me-downs
Unless it's something valuable from the family, nobody wants to unwrap a box to find your old junk inside.
Self-help books
While it's well intentioned, giving someone a self-help book is a not-so-subtle way of telling them they're in a bad place.
Toiletries
Toiletries such as toothbrushes, toilet paper, and deodorant all send the wrong message. Only give this stuff if you want someone to know you don’t care about them.
Fruit baskets
When you get one of these, half the fruit has usually already gone bad. And the other half will probably never get eaten.
A tie or scarf
While it's tempting to give men a tie and women a scarf, they probably already have too many of these items already. And if not, then they don't need them at all!
Plants
Here's something someone didn't want and is now forced to take care of every day. Plus, they might not even have space for it. Not a good choice.
Clothes
It's best to stay clear of clothing items, unless you're sure that you have someone’s correct size and that it's something they wished for.
A mug
Chances are most people already have their fair share of mugs, and then some.
Handcrafted anything
Some people are really talented, but most of us just aren’t meant to be crafters. Instead, it's best just to buy a thoughtful gift.
A pen
A pen is mostly used for work, paying bills, and addressing letters. Basically, super boring tasks, fit for a boring gift.
Keychain
No one needs more keychains. Even a "nice" keychain is too much, as it's expected to be carried all the time.
A loud toy
Thinking of buying that mini drum set or megaphone for your friend's or family member’s kid? Think again, and don't do it.
Pets
Never get someone an animal they may not be able to take care of. Most cats and dogs that are given as gifts end up in shelters.
