Oxfam’s New Year plea to donate unwanted presents as ‘novelty items’ top poll of most unwanted Christmas gifts

Novelty items such as slogan tees and fancy dress have knocked soap off the top spot of the nation’s most unwanted Christmas gifts according to an Oxfam survey, as the charity calls for people to donate items this New Year.

The YouGov study of 2,000 adults across the UK found that almost half (49%) of people who celebrate Christmas are least happy with the sight of a novelty item such as a joke gift in their stocking, with kitchen utensils and slippers also making it onto the no-no list.

In just two short years, novelty items have jumped from number nine in the chart to take poll position, knocking soap from the top spot of the UK’s most unwanted Christmas gifts list.

With toiletries, clothing accessories and home furnishings also making the list, Oxfam is encouraging Brits to donate their unwanted gifts this New Year instead of binning them or leaving them gathering dust in the back of a drawer.

TOP 10 UNWANTED CHRISTMAS GIFTS

1. Novelty items
2. Kitchen Utensils
3. Underwear
4. Home furnishings
5. Toiletries
6. Slippers
7. Sleepwear
8. Bags
9. Clothing accessories
10. Food

Lorna Fallon, director of retail for Oxfam, said: “It can be hard to find great gifts for everyone you need to buy for at Christmas, which means that inevitably some presents, no matter how well-intentioned, may not quite hit the mark. Whilst it is a kind gesture to send any sort of present, sometimes these unwanted gifts end up shoved in the back of a drawer or thrown in the bin before the decorations even come down, meaning the cost to the environment is no joke.

“That’s why Oxfam is encouraging the nation to join our gift amnesty – donating any unwanted presents of Christmas past. We rely on good quality stock to make sure our shelves are well stocked, not just at Christmas but all year round.

“We usually see an increase in donations over December as people declutter ahead of Christmas, which is great ahead of the shopping surge. We are hoping to see this trend continue into the New Year, as we urge people to take any good quality unwanted items to a charity shop - before they get forgotten in a drawer or thrown in the bin. It’s better for the planet and has the added good cheer of helping to support people and communities around the world, including those hit hard by the climate crisis.”

Declutter and donate this January at one of Oxfam’s 500+ shops across the UK or donate by post for free here.

ENDS

For more information or interview requests contact: Oxfam Media Unit media.unit@oxfam.org.uk / 07748 761999

Notes to Editors

• All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc.  Total sample size was 2,311 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 7 - 8 November 2024.  The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all UK adults (aged 18+).

About Oxfam 

Oxfam is a global community of people who believe in a kinder, and radically better world, where everyone has the power to thrive not just survive. We believe we can overcome poverty by fighting the injustices and inequalities that fuel it.

Oxfam has more than 500 shops in the UK as well as the Oxfam online shop. By buying and donating through Oxfam shops or online, you can help to protect our planet, while helping raise vital funds to tackle poverty and injustice around the globe.

To find your local Oxfam shop click here or head to our Oxfam Online Shop here.