The holidays are an exciting time. People get together with their close friends and family to celebrate Christmas and exchange gifts to express their love, care, and affection. But unfortunately, many seemingly well-thought-out presents are returned to the store by the receiver. Check out this list of the 12 most frequently returned Christmas presents to avoid ending up in the cycle of gift giving and returns over the holiday season.

Shoes
While shoes are a practical Christmas gift, they are among the most frequently returned items. This can be attributed to two reasons. First, people are often gifted styles they do not like, and second, the shoes do not fit them properly. Since fit and comfort differ by brand and style, it can be challenging to gauge what the other person may appreciate. So, consider buying a gift card from a famous shoe brand instead.

Kitchen appliances
Many people gift kitchen appliances over the Christmas season, which often end up being returned to the store. Practically speaking, most people already have appliances like microwaves, juicers, ovens, toasters, and blenders and do not need a second. Unless someone explicitly asks for an appliance, it may be safer to avoid buying things like ovens or toasters over the holidays.

Video games
Buying video games for gaming enthusiasts sounds like an easy gift, right? But as it turns out, these games are often returned after Christmas. If someone wants to buy a particular video game, they may have already purchased it. So, get them a gift card or a subscription to an online gaming service instead of a video game.

Sweets
The holidays are a time of delightful indulgence. People enjoy many savory, wholesome dishes and mouthwatering sweets and candies. However, after the holidays, many go on a health kick. As a result, they end up returning the candies or sweets they may have received over Christmas. Therefore, gifting someone sweets might not be the best idea during this time of the year.

Candles
Candles have become an increasingly popular (and generic) gift item. They often tend to be returned right after Christmas due to a difference in fragrance preferences.

Clothes
Buying clothes for someone else can be tricky because everyone has a different style. According to a study, over 62% of clothes and shoes gifted during the holiday season end up being returned. Of these, athletic apparel and men’s shirts are the most common returns. If unaware of the other person’s taste, it is best to avoid gifting them clothes as Christmas presents. Instead, opt for hats, socks, or other accessories.

DVDs
DVDs are so outdated today that most people have no device to play them anymore. Avoid getting these as a Christmas present for loved ones. Instead, gift them a subscription to a popular streaming service.

Glassware
Most people already have an extensive collection of glassware and do not need more. Instead of giving someone glasses as a Christmas gift, getting a bottle or two of their favorite drinks may be a better idea!

Makeup
Makeup and skincare products are an excellent gift for people one knows well. For others, however, it may be risky since one does not know what formulations, colors, or ingredients they prefer. In such cases, sending a gift card from a popular makeup or skincare company may be a better idea.

Home décor
Home decoration is an immensely personal task, and it is best to leave it to the homeowner. Forego gifts like bedding or shelving units for Christmas, as these will likely be returned. If keen on giving a functional home décor item, a throw pillow or cushion may be a great idea, as these tend to be quite versatile.

Tools
Again, most people already have these items in their arsenal and do not need extras. Avoid gifting tools like drill sets and multi-purpose screwdrivers unless explicitly asked for.

Electronics
The holiday or Christmas season is usually when many make big-ticket purchases like phones, laptops, gaming consoles, and other electronics. Since most people are picky about their devices, gifting a phone or laptop may not be a good idea. Unless a hundred percent sure about the exact device, iteration, or model a loved one is looking for, it is best to avoid these expensive splurges.

When trying to buy Christmas gifts for children, one may want to play it safe by gifting them toys. However, it is important to crosscheck gifts with the kids’ parents and other family members to avoid any repetition. For instance, toys like dolls and teddy bears are often returned after Christmas. So, before buying toys for kids, one should consider what the child needs and enjoys and then check if the gift one is considering is something that the child doesn’t already have.