I’m known amongst my family as something of a master gift-giver. I pride myself on my ability to surprise everyone on my list with something they never would have thought to buy for themselves but nevertheless love. Yes, it’s a skill, but I’ll also let you in on a little gift-giving secret: The best gifts, no matter who you’re buying for, are often the practical ones. These items may not be the most glamorous things to shop for, but when you find a gift that your loved one will actually use in their daily life (and that will make them think of you every time they do), that’s priceless.
Practical gifts should solve a problem, make something easier, or just generally make the recipient’s life better. If that sounds like a high bar, it’s easier than you think to find a great gift that’s both useful and fun to receive. Keep scrolling for the best practical gifts they’ll actually use and enjoy this season and beyond.
Place this wireless charging tray bedside or in the entryway to charge your devices and organize accessories like jewelry or keys all in one place.
Turn a basic tote bag into an organized dream with an insert that features separate compartments for your keys, laptop, water bottle, and more.
With its quick heat time, precision pour spout, and exact temperature control, this electric kettle makes the perfect gift for anyone who’s serious about their coffee.
Keep your beverage at the exact temperature you like it all day long with this self-heating mug.
Bombas socks have a cult following for a reason. Once you try them, you’ll never be able to go back. These are made using a blend of Merino wool, so they’re pillowy soft and naturally moisture-wicking. The fun retro colors are just a bonus.
Make clutter look good with a sleek, multi-tier rack that organizes shoes and other entryway essentials. The minimalist design is made of powder-coated steel for easy cleaning.
This easy-to-clean humidifier filters out contaminants and inhibits mold and bacteria so you can breathe clean, hydrated air all night long.
Designed for better sleep, this smart alarm clock lets you drift off amid nature-inspired sounds, then wake gently to a gradual sunrise effect.
This editor-beloved sheet set is woven from organic cotton that gets softer with every wash and adds breathable comfort in every season.
Skip the ironing board and cut your ironing time in half with a handheld device that smoothes out wrinkles on the front and back of your garment simultaneously.
This isn’t your basic laundry detergent. Made with high-end, sophisticated fragrances like Egyptian Rose, these high-powered detergent pods turn the mundane task of doing laundry into a luxurious experience. With their extensive fragrance options, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your recipient.
Air purifiers don’t have to be eyesores. This one is designed with an integrated removable planter to blend in seamlessly with your decor while improving air quality.
This genius electric heater mounts to the wall like a piece of art and uses infrared technology to warm up a room while reducing your heating bill. The smart features mean you can adjust temperature settings, set heating schedules, and monitor energy use from anywhere using your phone.
Take cleaning off their to-do list with a robot vacuum that picks up dirt, dust, and debris from carpets and hard floors (and can even navigate under and around furniture).
The ultimate gift for anyone who loves to bake, this stand mixer offers 10 different speeds for nearly any task or recipe so they can knead dough, mix cake batter ingredients, or whip up meringue with ease.
Keep recipes easily within sight with a stand that can hold cookbooks open to the right page or elevate a tablet to the perfect viewing angle.
Anyone who’s serious about cooking needs a good apron, and this chef-approved brand is top of the line. The cross-back design takes pressure off the neck, and the stain-resistant material easily cleans up in the washing machine.
What’s more practical than a gift you can cook with? This oil and vinegar set is a big step up from your basic pantry staples and will instantly elevate anything from pasta dishes to salads to desserts.
Whip up smoothies, sauces, and soups with ease with a high-powered blender that looks good enough to keep out on the kitchen counter.
Shield your microwave from splatters, store leftovers, or cover a pan on the stove with these dishwasher-safe silicone lids that can form an airtight seal on any dish.
Give their cleaning routine an eco-friendly upgrade with a kit that includes reusable spray bottles and tablets that dissolve in water to create plant-based cleaning products and hand soap.
Designed specifically for taking off makeup, these washcloths will save your other towels from pesky makeup stains.
Unlike traditional bath mats that can harbor moisture and create a breeding ground for bacteria, this bath stone dries almost instantly, keeping your feet and the floor dry.
This showerhead filters out chlorine, heavy metals, and other contaminants from your water for healthier skin and hair.
Fancy soap sets aren’t typically something you’d buy for yourself, which makes this a great gift idea. The cedar and cardamom fragrance is perfect for the winter months.
Keep wine perfectly chilled between each sip with these freezable granite coasters. The set comes with stemless glasses that fit perfectly inside the coasters to prevent tipping.
For anyone who’s prone to losing their keys, wallet, or other personal items, these tags will help them easily locate the misplaced item.
Organize daily essentials for your commute or keep your groceries from rolling around the backseat with this collapsible, multi-compartment organizer designed to keep in your car.
Keep wine perfectly chilled on the table with a marble holder that naturally keeps the contents cool.
Keep jewelry safe and tangle-free at home or away with an organizer that features cushioned compartments for rings, earrings, and necklaces.
