UK's Worst Christmas Presents for 2024 Revealed in Which? Survey
A survey conducted by Which? in January 2025, involving more than 2,000 UK adults, revealed some of the most disappointing Christmas presents received during 2024. Reported unwanted gifts included used pyjamas, a rotten coconut and pineapple, marmite-scented deodorant, and notably, a Tottenham Hotspur book given to a Chelsea fan. One respondent shared an experience where a daughter gifted a helicopter ride to someone who suffers from vertigo and has a fear of flying.
About 20% of respondents stated they received an unwanted or unsuitable Christmas gift in 2024. In terms of how recipients handled such gifts, 33% kept and would use the gift, while 15% kept it but would not use it. Additionally, 34% of recipients disposed of their gifts, 12% gave them to a friend or family member, 11% donated them to charity shops, and 8% sold unwanted gifts online.
Nearly half of those who attempted to return a gift encountered problems during the process. Consumer law expert Lisa Webb advised that keeping a gift receipt is important. She also noted that return policies can allow recipients to return or exchange gifts, depending on whether the item was marked as a gift.
