A dustpan and brush, out-of-date chocolate and wine and used deodorant are amongst among the worst Christmas items folks say they’ve acquired, a survey has discovered.
In January 2022, Which? surveyed almost 1,800 Christmas present recipients and located {that a} quarter (24%) had acquired an undesirable or unsuitable present at Christmas 2021.
Vodka given to a pregnant girl and dairy merchandise that the recipient was allergic to had been additionally among the many most unsuitable festive items that folks stated that they had acquired.
Almost 1 / 4 (24%) of individuals had given undesirable items away whereas one in six (15%) had exchanged it with the retailer.
Much less widespread methods of eliminating unsuitable items included promoting it on a market (7%), throwing it away (5%) and giving it again to the one that gifted it (2%).
Which? additionally discovered girls had been extra possible than males to provide away their presents. Almost three in 10 (29%) girls determined to discover a new dwelling for his or her disappointing presents in contrast with almost a fifth (18%) of males.
Almost three-quarters (74%) of these surveyed stated that not one of the Christmas presents they acquired included a present receipt – which means they might not have the ability to change any undesirable objects for one thing extra appropriate.
If the merchandise was marked as a present when ordered, the retailer’s returns coverage might allow a recipient to return or change it
Lisa Webb, Which?
Lisa Webb, Which? shopper legislation skilled, stated: “Usually solely the client can request a refund or change. But when the merchandise was marked as a present when ordered, the retailer’s returns coverage might allow a recipient to return or change it.”
Many retailers lengthen their return coverage in the course of the festive interval, however clients ought to fastidiously contemplate whether or not to simply accept vouchers, as they may turn out to be nugatory if the retailer goes bust, Which? stated.
In addition to promoting or exchanging items, folks may additionally contemplate donating undesirable objects to charity.
Which? has additional tips about what to do with undesirable items at which.co.uk/consumer-rights/recommendation/i-want-to-return-my-goods-what-are-my-rights.
