Then it happens: a present is broken straight out of the box, the jumper is two sizes too small, or the gadget simply isn’t what you hoped for.
If you’ve ever sat there smiling politely while thinking “Oh no…”, you’re not alone.
At That’s Christmas 365, we believe that even the wobbly, disappointing bits of Christmas deserve kindness, perspective, and a practical plan.
Here’s how to deal with broken presents, wrong sizes, and festive mishaps—without spoiling the season.
First Things First: Pause Before You Panic
It’s completely normal to feel disappointed, frustrated, or awkward—especially if the gift came from someone who clearly meant well. Before reacting:
Take a breath
Remind yourself that Christmas is about people, not perfection
Avoid reacting in the heat of the moment
A calm response now makes everything easier later.
Dealing with Broken or Faulty Gifts
If a present arrives damaged or doesn’t work properly, don’t assume all is lost.
What to Do Straight Away
Keep all packaging – boxes, receipts, and labels matter
Take photos of damage or faults as soon as possible
Check the retailer’s returns policy – many extend returns over Christmas
In the UK, consumer rights usually protect you if an item is faulty, even if it was a gift. Retailers are often far more accommodating in the festive period than at any other time of year.
If the Gift Was Bought Online
Online purchases are often easier to resolve. Many retailers allow:
Gift returns without the purchaser present
Exchanges rather than refunds
Extended January return windows
If you don’t have the receipt, ask the giver discreetly later—most people would much rather you have something usable than suffer in silence.
When the Size Is Wrong (Clothes, Shoes & Wearables)
Ah yes, the festive sizing lottery.
How to Handle It Politely
Thank the giver genuinely—it’s the thought that counts
Avoid trying things on publicly if you already know it won’t fit
Check the tag before removing it
Most clothing retailers allow size exchanges without fuss, especially around Christmas.
If You’re Unsure About an Exchange
Some people worry about offending the gift giver. Remember:
They chose the item because they care
Exchanging it ensures it’s actually worn and enjoyed
Keeping something that doesn’t fit helps no one
Kind honesty, handled gently, is rarely taken badly.
When the Gift Just Isn’t “You”
Not every present is broken or the wrong size—sometimes it’s simply… not your thing.
Before rushing to return it, consider:
Could it be re-gifted thoughtfully later?
Would a charity shop donation do genuine good?
Could it be repurposed or used creatively?
If you do return it, many shops will offer store credit—sometimes leading you to something you’d never have chosen yourself but end up loving.
What If You’re the One Who Gave the Problem Gift?
It happens to everyone at some point.
If someone tells you a present is broken or doesn’t fit:
Thank them for telling you
Reassure them it’s absolutely fine
Offer the receipt or help with an exchange
Grace goes both ways at Christmas.
Keeping Christmas in Perspective
A broken ornament, a faulty gadget, or a too-tight jumper can feel upsetting in the moment—but they don’t define the day.
Christmas memories are built from:
Shared meals
Familiar films
Quiet conversations
Laughter over small mishaps
Often, it’s the imperfect moments that become the stories we laugh about year after year.
A That’s Christmas 365 Thought
Christmas doesn’t need to be flawless to be meaningful.
If a present breaks, doesn’t fit, or misses the mark entirely, it’s not a failure—it’s just part of real life woven into the festive season. Handle it kindly, fix what you can, and let go of the rest.
After all, Christmas lasts far longer in the heart than it does under the tree.
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