Gifts to upgrade their day-to-day life — not just knickknacks they’ll forget about.
We hope you love the products we recommend! All of them were independently selected by our editors. Some may have been sent as samples, but all opinions and reviews are our own. Just so you know, BuzzFeed may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to shop from them. Oh, and FYI — prices are accurate and items in stock as of time of publication.
1.
A pair of noise-cancelling headphones with over 25,000 5-star ratings from people who LOVE using them while getting in the zone (whether it’s for working, studying, or even mowing the lawn). If you don’t want to break the bank but still want to give your friend a thoughtful gift, this is just the choice for the person you know who depends on quiet time throughout their day.
Promising review: “These headphones are incredible! I’ve been using them every day for 10 months, sometimes for hours at a time. The sound quality is phenomenal and they are very comfortable. I tried several other high-end brands like Bose and Apple, but these are way more comfortable and sound almost as good. I send these to friends as gifts and they are blown away!” —Mike 420
Price: $59.99+ (available in three colors)
2.
An oval blow-dryer brush to create a salon-quality blowout in less time than it takes to stream an episode of The Office. This brush blows hot air out of its barrel brush, meaning it simultaneously dries and styles — perfect for your friend who has roughly 0.5 seconds in the morning to get ready.
Promising review: “I had a cheaper such product, and it didn’t last too long. Took the plunge and bought this. My hair looks fabulous every day; just run this thru my hair in the am (dry hair), and I’m good to go. Best thing ever!” —Amazon Customer
Price: $155
3.
A set of iridescent display stands, because whether it’s a collection of toys, knickknacks, or cosmetics, everyone has something they want to display. Help your friends’ collections shine with these super cool and colorful stands.
Promising review: “I bought these for one purpose but when I put them on my south-facing windowsill they looked sooo colorful I kept them there! Glad I bought them! Very well packaged and protected with fast delivery. Totally recommend!!” —Treehugger
Price: $22.99 for a set of six
4.
A set of five reusable food “huggers” so your food prep-loving boo can say goodbye to brown apple slices forever, without having to use disposable plastic bags or aluminum foil. These reusable silicone food savers wrap tightly, creating a seal around fruits, veggies, and even cans so that your love can do away with their cling wrap and still be able to count on keeping their avocado half super fresh.
These little helpers are also BPA-free and dishwasher safe!
Promising review: “These are great, got them as a gift for my mom and she absolutely loves them. No more soggy veggies in aluminum foil or Saran Wrap, and the produce gets used a lot faster because it is more visible.” —Amazon Customer
Price: $16.99 for five (available in five colors)
5.
A cat tree that your kitty will love as a gift, because they’ll feel like they’re in the natural habitat of their big-cat ancestors. They’ll love curling up for a nice catnap on one of the platforms during the day, and then climbing and jumping all over this baby at three in the morning when you’re trying to sleep, as cats are wont to do.
Promising review: “This might be my favorite cat tree so far! The size is perfect for middle-aged cats, not too short for them to perch, not too tall to climb or jump down from. The smooth furniture-like case is a godsend, carpeted towers are a nightmare to keep clean. Easy to put together, I did it all by myself! The design is concise and elegant, and compliments my mid-century decor perfectly.” —Crazy8Cats
Price: $125.99
6.
A set of bath bombs because what’s better than ending the day with a bath? Ending the day with a bath-bomb bath, that’s what. Consider this for the mother you know who is always on the hunt for things to help them unwind after a long and tiring day.
Promising review: “So the women in my life love these. They’re a staple gift for almost every holiday (Christmas, Valentines, etc). They’re a family-owned company that has great customer service and follow-up, but that’s not the best part, the product is. My girls (girlfriend and daughter) love bath bombs and have tried a lot of them, but these are the ones they now use exclusively. The only two negative things about them are that 1. If you gift them they will know, the smell gives away the greatness. 2. Once you gift them you will be expected to keep the supply train coming, but at the price point on Amazon it’s a super easy holiday gift to stay in the winner’s circle with the people you love the most.” —Greg_i2003
Price: $25.46 for 12
7.
An aesthetically pleasing set of 60 (!!!) dual-tip calligraphy markers that, get this, can diffuse into a watercolor by adding a touch of, you guessed it, water! So whether your giftee is looking to bring out their inner Bob Ross, or they’re just looking for a marker-fine-tip pen duo to help them bullet journal, they’re sure to thank you immensely for this colorful gift.
8.
A unique horizontal candle if your bestie is the type of person who wants to light a few candles without having to worry about melting the entire candle in one night. This candle rolls through the wick holder, which only burns the part of the candle above the wick holder. Once the flame reaches the bottom of the wick holder, the candle self-extinguishes, saving the rest of the wax spiral for the next time your giftee wants some candlelight.
Promising review: “This is absolutely my favorite thing I’ve bought and gifted to others recently. The style is so cool. I love that you can set it for a relative amount of time and forget about it; it extinguishes itself after setting a relative time! We are using fewer lights in our house at night, as the candle is bright enough to light up our room. I love the look and functionality of these!! It looks great on any counter and everyone always asks about it. The ones we’ve given as gifts, everyone loves them! Highly, highly recommend this product to all! Love it!!” —Cougar Paw
Price: $23.65
9.
A five-tier vertical planter, because your buddy’s green thumb is in constant rivalry with their small apartment space. This allows them to grow the flowers and veggies that make their heart happy while taking up little space in their home (or outside their home!).
Promising review: “Used for strawberry plants. The planter was extremely easy to assemble and works perfectly for my needs. Love how watering the top layers will also water the lower layers via the drainage system. Nice product!” —Fellow Amazon shopper
Price: $36.95 (available in five colors)
10.
A set of four wineglasses with a funky, angular edge so that your bestie can have the tablescape of their dreams while still drinking out of a glass that will uphold their drink’s integrity.
Promising review: “I really like the style of these flat bottom stemmed wine glasses. I purchased the clear glass style. They look, for lack of better words, cool, but elegant and beautiful. They have a different look to them compared to regular, round wine glasses. They feel sturdy. I got them for a wedding gift and am etching two of them with the bride and groom’s names and wedding date, by a local company here in Phoenix. The box they come in has a nice look to it as well. Well packed in styrofoam to keep them from breaking along the way.” —Christina R
Price: $44.99
11.
A gallon water bottle to help keep your gym buddy’s hydration on track, even after you two go home!
Promising review: “Tryna stay hydrated?! This is what you need!! I obviously know what a gallon jug looks like but to see it filled with water for the day can be a bit intimidating. Once you get over that ‘ummm what’ feeling, you’ll be glad you purchased it. The color is so pretty, I had a bit of ice in there at the beginning of the day and it did not sweat and leave a puddle on my desk like other water bottles. The extras are great, I like that it has two lid options. I have used the spout one and the lid stays where it is supposed to when you open it. No lid falling on your face when you are trying to drink, hehe. Overall an awesome jug, I have already recommended a few friends to buy one as well.” —Natalie V.
Price: $19.99+ (available in 22 colors)
12.
A copper French press for your sibling who ~can’t stop, won’t stop~ making absolutely everything in their home aesthetically pleasing. But this doesn’t *just* go great with their French farmhouse kitchen decor — it also steeps amazing coffees, teas, and tisanes!
Promising review: “Yes, it’s great for coffee, and that’s been reviewed by many. What isn’t mentioned is how great it is at brewing other hot drinks: tea, citrus rind beverage, hot ginger tea for a sore throat, and even real cocoa-nib hot chocolate. Leaves no particles, perfect size for a couple of cups.” —compustuff
Price: $29.99+ (available in four sizes and three colors)
13.
A mini sunset lamp, because no golden hour light doesn’t have to mean no golden hour selfie. Your blogger friend will use this practically every single day for product shots and selfies that look extra ~artsy~.
amazon.com, Amazon
Promising review: “I’ve seen these on TikTok a bunch of times, and now I finally have my own! I’ve been eyeing the sunset and rainbow lights for months. I decided to purchase just the sunset light first to see how much I liked it. The same day it came I tested it out in a home studio, and I absolutely adore it! It gives a soft, glowy look that is perfect to accent golden-hour-style photo shoots and editing styles. I definitely recommend this product. I can’t wait to purchase the rainbow light next for a whole new look!” —Taylor
Price $8.38+ (available in two colors)
14.
A sewing machine, because the best type of gift you can give is one that teaches your giftee a craft, and this beginner-friendly sewing machine will help your friend hone their new skill. Plus, if you get this for them now, you can probably expect to get a handmade quilt from them around the holidays. It’s the classic I scratch your back you scratch mine situation where everyone is pleased.
Promising review: “I was a beginner when I purchased this machine and am so happy that I invested in this particular model. It has the perfect preset stitching (haven’t needed anything outside what is available so far). Very easy to set up and use. This machine has handled everything from simple mending projects to full on upholstery. You definitely need to purchase additional needles for heavy-duty fabrics but this machine is a powerhouse and can def handle the challenge. Highly, highly recommend for users of all levels.” —Mt
Price: $199.99+ (available in five kit sizes)
15.
A set of six aromatherapy shower steamers that will instantly turn any shower into a relaxing Banya Spa experience. All your mate has to do is drop this in their shower and let the soothing, minty, and citrusy scents mix with the steam.
Promising review: “These are the best shower steamers I’ve ever tried. Usually, they aren’t strong enough or they melt too quickly to even enjoy. They are also bigger than what you can buy at the store. I’d say they are about a hockey puck size. One lasted my entire shower and still smelled amazing even after I was done. These are the best shower steamers hands-down. I would definitely buy these again.” —Krista
Price: $15.99+ (available in two styles and two sizes)
16.
A cable-knit floor pouf, because some people (c’est moi) don’t work at traditional desks but rather sit on the floor propped up next to the coffee table. Here’s the thing — while sitting by a coffee table just gets some people’s creative juices flowing, sitting on the floor still takes its toll on the hips and can hurt over time. Get this pouf if your friend enjoys floor sitting of any kind, whether it’s working or just lounging.
Promising review: “Perfect size and height to fit in front of my swivel chair. Is sturdy and has weight to it, but easy to move for when I am facing a different way. Takes strain off my back and legs. Blends nicely with my decor. Small enough to tuck away if you don’t want it out. Easy to vacuum. Doesn’t rustle loudly as some do. Truly minimal, nearly silent and no chemical odors. I was nervous to purchase as I haven’t used one before, but am delighted!” —wordgamelover
Price: $72.99
17.
A towel warmer that is essential for your parent if they are on a mission to make every part of their home luxurious. There’s nothing like a fresh-out-the-dryer towel or blanket, and luckily, this device heats up fabrics in just fifteen minutes.
Amazon
It can fit up to two towels and has an adjustable timer you can set for 15, 30, 45, or 60 minutes.
Promising review: “After reading lots of reviews on several different towel warmers, I bought this product for my mom for Christmas. I tested it out before giving it to her. It was works great! The timer looks so sleek and fancy. Even at only 15 minutes, you get a nice warm towel! 10/10 would recommend! Already thinking of buying one for myself!” —Kaylee Sierra
Price: $99.99
18.
A Lodge pre-seasoned cast-iron skillet for the perfect housewarming gift since it does everything from making fluffy scrambled eggs in the morning to a mouth-watering T-bone steak for dinner!
Promising review: “Bought for my daughter-in-law as a housewarming gift. Works as expected. While it is pre-seasoned I took it to next level and cooked a few things to improve the quality of the seasoning. She learned to love cast iron after living with us while they saved money. Her biggest learning was when she put my granddad’s 12-inch skillet in the dishwasher. Fast forward to 2022 and I’m giving her this skillet filled with her favorite recipe cooked in it.” —ShepFL
Price: $11.75+ (available in eight sizes)
20.
And a piece of macrame hanging wall art to add texture to any living space. If you’ve been waxing poetic about boho decor, why not gift this lovely (and inexpensive!) work of art to yourself?
Promising review: “Perfect artwork for my guest room. The colors are very pretty and the quality is great. The colors are like a red-brown and orange tone. Overall, the color scheme feels very trendy and true to what’s pictured. A great value for the price. And my guests commented on how pretty it was and assumed I got it on Etsy or at an art show. I was like ‘no, actually Amazon!'” —Isobel Mason
Price: $49.50+ (available in three designs)
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The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.
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