"Oh, wow, gee, thanks for....this".

You know that uncomfortable moment when you open the tasteful packaging to reveal an unneeded or otherwise inexplicable gift. (Or are you blissfully unaware of this problem? Here's a heads up.)

So there you are with a pile of gifts that you don't want/can't use: what next? In a word, "Regifting" (or, passing off your gift to someone else, ideally without divulging the backstory).

While it may seem lazy or awkward to regift, I'm actually all for it when, of course, done properly. As a basic rule of thumb, it's acceptable to regift if you know someone who would genuinely appreciate the gift more than you.

Such a delicate situation requires hard and fast rules to survive a regifting episode without regrets. Here are 5 tips you should consider before you start:

DON'T REGIFT

1) ...if the original gift was given to you by a family member or good friend

Imagine your mother-in-law comes over expecting to see that "wonderful" vase she gave you for Christmas, only to realise that it's not actually in your house but your neighbours'. Instead, suck it up and take one for the team by displaying it proudly during her visit (and then promptly hiding it when she leaves).

2) ...if the original gift is defective or just plain awful



Remember that episode of Seinfeld where the label maker is regifted because it actually doesn't work? This is a big no-no! If you don't want something broken, why would anyone else? The same rule applies for that hideous sweater you wouldn't be caught dead wearing.

DO REGIFT

3) ... with a personal touch

I've received items in giftbags or freebies from work/volunteer events which I've given away as gifts if I don't need or want them. When I do this, I always add a little something extra - a great lipstick or a Starbucks gift card shows a personal touch that reflects the gifter and giftee.

4) ... on the "down low "

Oversharing about the gift's origin makes you look cheap and spoils the moment for the other person. Don't feel the need to be upfront and let them know that this gift was not originally meant for them - this doesn't make anyone feel special.

5) ... using fresh wrapping paper

Have you heard the regifting urban legend where the giver didn't rewrap the present and simply passed it along? How awkward it is for your co-worker to receive a card enclosed with her gift from "your loving Aunt Sarah"! Take a moment to change up the wrapping paper you cheap shmuck, and make sure you include a nice (fresh!) card.

Let us know: have you ever regifted or received a regift?