Is it ok to throw out a gift?

Question

I keep receiving gifts from my husband's family. His mom bought me a shirt one size too small. It hardly fits in the shoulders. I wear it for bed sometimes, but it's not comfortable.

I have a collection of things in the basement that are gifts that I will never use. The relatives that gave them will probably never know I tossed them, it's just taking up room.

Is it ok to throw out a gift? Especially if it's years since it's been given.

Answer 1

Once a gift is given, the giver relinquishes all rights to it.  The gifts are yours to do with as you please.

Please consider donating your items to worthy causes, rather than just throwing them away.

Answer 2

Freecycle your unwanted stuff.  If the gift has served its purpose, or it has been a long time and no longer suits you, give it away.  One man's trash is another man's treasure.

Answer 3

Of course - if I was the gift giver I'd be more upset that the person kept it for fear of offending me!

If I receive an absolute "Eeek!!" gift, I have several options:-

1) Can it be given to someone else?

2) If not, does the item have several components that can be broken down (i.e. I won't use the talc in the bath set, but I'll use the bath foam).

3) If none of the above apply, it's off to the local charity shop.

Answer 4

don't throw it out, donate it to salvation army or a thrift store.

Answer 5

I think the giver would rather you be happy.  Even if "happy" means that the gift is in the trash.  By all means, don't store gifts in boxes in the basement, get rid of them.

I tend to pass my gifts onto charity.  There's no point in me keeping a tee that doesn't fit - perhaps it will fit someone else.  That's my way of passing the "karma" on.  

Alternatively, you can exchange the gift.  Perhaps you could give more direction near gift times.  Before your birthday, subtly hint something like, "my cat tore all my tea towels to shreds!", "Ikea is my favorite store", "I can't wait until payday so I can get new bedsheets from Ikea" or "It's been so long since husband and I have gone out for a nice dinner.   Joey's used to be our favorite restaurant".  Just hint.  Otherwise, leave it.  

Don't say negative to the inlaws about their gifts.  You'll come across as ungrateful.  So, just smile and thank them for the gifts if they aren't getting your  subtle hints.

Answer 6

Give it to charity.

Answer 7

It sounds fine by me.  Maybe if they realize you aren't using any of their gifts, they'll start giving you gift cards instead.