Breakable Gifts: 3 Safety Tips

A handwritten card, a food basket, a glazed teapot, a diamond necklace – getting any gift is wonderful and also means a responsibility to keep the gift for as long as possible.

Different things should be stored differently and breakable gifts in particular you want to handle a particular way. Here are 3 tips for you.

Ask the Giver

Chances are that a gift is bought with thoughtful care and with so much knowledge about the gift, one of the first things you want to do is ask the gift giver about any particularly delicate features and specific care requirements. In fact, even a conversation to understand their intentions could very well reveal tricks from how they figured the gift would be handled.

You want to initiate a conversation with them, first sincerely thanking them for the gift and then asking specific questions about handling, cleaning, and any nuances that come with the present.

For example, say an old high school friend just gives you a delicate handcrafted glass ornament. Engaging them to thank them and ask for handling tips means advice like holding it by the sturdier base rather than the fragile extended elements, plus an indication to them that you really appreciate the glass ornament.

Custom Cushioning

Any breakable gift could benefit from some cushioning, especially if it’s tailored for their shape or unique vulnerabilities. Plus, it can do wonders for aesthetics.

Custom cushioning can be pretty simple; you want to check out the gift’s dimensions, materials, and fragility, pick out appropriate cushioning materials -soft fabric, foam, custom-cut inserts – then design or buy a dedicated display case that’s just right.

Say your sibling gives you a fragile ceramic sculpture. It’s a very good idea to have a custom-fitted foam insert that snugly surrounds its contours as well as a transparent acrylic display case so that there’s a protective barrier with no obstruction.

Hold or Use with Precision

Accidents do happen, but certainly not nearly so much with precise handling. Using care every time you want to enjoy a gift is one of the most respectful, appreciative things to do.

Different kinds of fragile gifts need different handling, but generally, you want to:

• Always use both hands and distribute the weight evenly
• Move as slowly as you can, deliberately, avoiding sudden movements or jerks
• Look around your environment. It’s how you’ll steer clear of obstacles or hazards in your path

For example, say your best friend finds you a fragile antique photo frame. If it’s going to last, you don’t want to grip it with one hand, touch the glass surface directly, or constantly move it from one place to another.

Often, gifts are thoughtful presents meant to last. And while you should absolutely enjoy any gift, it’s best to be careful! Keep these tips in mind for your more breakable gifts.