What Is the 'Four-Gift Rule'? And Is It Really the Secret to Less Over-Consumption (and, Let’s Face It, Less Clutter)?

A potted Christmas tree next to a sofa with a throw on top. There is also a view of the dining table with foliage on top and a hanging green ornament above the table. .

The Christmas break is supposed to be a time for relaxation and enjoyment. One thing we don’t want to spend our precious holiday time doing is tidying.

Unfortunately, the post-Christmas period is often dedicated to decluttering your house and trying desperately to find space for an excess of new gifts. However, the Four Gift Rule is designed to encourage present buying that makes the receiver’s life easier, rather than gifting presents that clutter the house or are left in cupboards and forgotten about.