Got a terrible Christmas gift? Here's what an etiquette expert suggests you should do to avoid hurting anyone's feelings.

• Receiving a Christmas gift you hate doesn't have to be a burden. 
• Asking politely if there's an option for an exchange is fine, an etiquette expert told CNBC. 
• The expert also suggests donating the unwanted gift to charity or giving it to somebody else. 

Did your stomach drop after seeing the Christmas gift you got from a beloved family member or friend? Here's what you can do to avoid hurting their feelings, according to an expert.