We’ve all been there — you unwrap a gift with excited anticipation, only to find… a tacky sweater that doesn’t fit, a kitchen gadget you’ll never use, yet another generic keychain, or a “decorative item” that’s just plain ugly. It can be incredibly awkward and uncomfortable to receive a truly terrible gift, especially if it’s from someone you care about. But instead of letting it ruin your day or hurting the giver’s feelings, here are some tips on how to handle the situation with grace and kindness.

1. Manage your immediate reaction

The moment someone hands you a gift and you open it, all eyes are on your face. This will be a challenge to those whose face “comes with subtitles,” but give it your all and try to keep your reaction gracious and warm.

It’s simple: First, smile. Then say a simple “Wow, thank you so much!” It’ll save you and the gift-giver a lot of awkwardness.

2. Find something positive to say

There’s always usually something you can genuinely compliment about a gift, even if it’s not your cup of tea. “I love the color!” or “This looks so useful, I’ve been meaning to try something like this” can go a long way in keeping things positive. If all else fails, you can simply acknowledge their effort with a “You’re so thoughtful!”

3. If you really can’t find something nice to say, just say thank you

REALLY not a fan of the gift? That’s okay. You don’t have to pretend you love it, but you also don’t need to give a detailed critique. Simply saying “thank you” is enough.

It may be tempting to blurt out something like, “Oh, my other friend got me this much cooler version of this,” or “Did you keep the receipt?” Please don’t. Negative comments can be hurtful, even if they’re said jokingly, especially since many gifts involve time or effort.

4. Understand the intention behind the gift

Before you roll your eyes or start your “thanks, I guess” speech in your head, pause for a second. Gifts are usually well-intentioned, even if they missed the mark. Maybe your tita really thought that frumpy sweater was actually fashionable. Or maybe your friend was genuinely excited about introducing you to their love of neon figurines. The thought truly does count, even if the execution leaves you baffled.

5. Consider quietly exchanging the gift (or donating)

Sometimes, the gift just doesn’t work for you—that’s okay! If the giver included a gift receipt, it’s like a free pass to swap it out for something more your vibe, no hard feelings. Be discreet about it. They probably won’t even notice or care, as long as you don’t wave the receipt in their face and announce, “I’m getting store credit instead.”

And if they didn’t include a gift receipt, then consider giving it to someone who will appreciate it or donating it to a charity.

6. Take this as an opportunity to learn about the gift-giver

You can use this instance to better understand your gift-giver’s preferences, interests, or style. Did they give you something they personally love? It may be a chance to connect with them. If your friend handed you a cookbook you’ll probably never open, maybe they’re into cooking and hoping to share that with you.

7. Have an honest conversation (if it’s needed)

There are certain relationships where honesty is the best policy, especially if the same gifting mishap happens year after year. We’re talking people in your inner circle (e.g. significant others, siblings, parents), not acquaintances or distant relatives you only see once or twice a year.

If your dad keeps buying you extra-large clothes when you’re clearly a size medium, or your partner gifts you gadgets you’ll never use, it might be worth gently steering future gifts in a better direction. Try something like, “Hey, thank you so much for the gift! Just wanted to share: I’ve been leaning more towards [specific interest] lately.”

8. Use this as a *~learning experience~*

Maybe this person just gave you the gift of personal growth and self-reflection.

No, really.

You can take this as a sign to manage your expectations (especially if you’re dealing with a consistently bad gifter) or communicate your preferences more clearly.

It can also teach you a valuable lesson about giving gifts. (The key takeaway? Pay attention to the other person’s likes, dislikes, and hobbies to avoid the same pitfalls. Don’t know what they’re into? Ask!)

Or, at the very least, this could be a sign that next time, you might just want to go with a wishlist system. ;)

Happy gifting (and receiving)!