Gift-giving is truly its own love language, and best case scenario, your present shows love and affection while still maintaining practicality. That way, you can brighten up your recipient’s day while making their life a little easier going forward with something they can actually get great use out of.
All these picks are designed to do just that. Ahead, you’ll find with some practical items with a twist — including several finds that have a little baked-in, whimsical fun. Read on for some of our favorite handy gifts that your loved ones will be so glad they received this holiday season.
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Former HuffPost shopping writer Kristen Adaway previously sang the praises of this 20-ouncce portable mini Crockpot, which can reheat leftovers using the detachable cord.
“I can confirm the hype is definitely deserved. I’ve found it to be incredibly useful for reheating leftover delivery dishes or cooked meals without having to use my stove or oven. The sweet spot for how long it takes to heat most of my meals is between 30 minutes and an hour,” Adaway wrote.
The warmer is also spill-proof with a removable lid and storage container, which are both dishwasher-safe to make your recipient’s life as easy as possible. You can grab it in four colors.
How fun is this midcentury modern-inspired analog clock? At 6 inches tall, it would look right at home on your recipient’s nightstand, shelf side table or mantel. It’s also battery-operated (one AA battery, which isn’t included), so no ugly cords will ruin the decorative appeal.
Promising review:. “This clock is adorable! It’s great to add to any mantle or nightstand or entryway table. Functional and decorative are my favorite types of pieces. It works well and keeps time great, I’m going to purchase another one for our guest bedroom” — Janjan
More than just an aesthetic choice, the bright, different colors included in this Cuisinart knife set act as a kind of color coding in the kitchen to prevent cross-contamination during food prep. The knives have sharp stainless steel blades and a nonstick coating. The set includes a chef knife, slicing knife, serrated bread knife, santoku knife, utility knife, paring knife and matching colorful blade covers for each. Reviewers swear by these, claiming they’re rust-resistant, the “best knives” they’ve ever used and really, really sharp.
Available in three pastel colors, this pill compact and purse kit from Dosey adds some elegance to medication organization. The compact has seven sections that can hold up to eight pills each, each labeled for a day of the week, and a built-in mirror so your recipient can check their reflection on the go. This combo also comes with a matching vegan leather case to store the compact, with a tasseled zipper to keep it securely closed and a gold clip to attach it to a bag. The compact is seven inches wide and less than an inch tall, making it easily portable for travel.
Anyone who boils eggs knows how tough it can be to get them just the right amount of done, but this adorable little singing chick can take out the guesswork and add a healthy dose of fun to the cooking experience. All your recipient has to do is drop the timer in with their eggs, and it’ll play one of three songs when the eggs are perfectly soft-, medium- and hardboiled. Seriously, that’s it — no buttons on/off switch to worry about, since the timer will stay on standby mode until it’s heated during the cooking process.
A truly practical gift that’s great for anyone who considers themselves handy or anyone who loves a DIY project, this magnetic wristband can save them so much time spent digging through their toolbox for small parts like screws, nails and more. The nylon wristband is adjustable with a Velcro closure and has 10 strong inner magnets to hold screws, nails, bolts, washers and drill bits in place so they can grab them as soon as they need them.
Don’t forget to clip the on-page coupon for an extra $5 off.
Promising review: “I bought this as a gift for my husband. He uses this a lot for various projects around the house. He said this saves him trips back and forth, doesn’t have to worry about screws or nails falling to the ground.
My husband said he’s amazed how strong the magnet is on this wristband.
He stores this on his metal tool box in the garage. Keep this product away from anything you don’t want de-magnetized.
If you have someone who is difficult to shop for in your life, try this product!” — KCurley
Shark Tank-featured brand Bombas is famous for their buttery-soft socks, but one of its coziest hidden gems is the Sunday Slippers.
Deemed the brand’s most supportive slipper, the ultra-soft slip-ons are made with fluffy, plush fleece and a cushiony memory foam footbed that’ll make tired feet sing. They’re impressively sturdy, too, with rubber outsoles that’ll withstand chores and taking out the trash.
Available in men’s and women’s versions, the slippers are designed to “slip on and stay on,” with a slightly raised back heel that keeps feet secure yet comfy.
You can grab them in multiple colors, in men’s sizes 7-13 and in women’s sizes 6-11.
You can get an extra 20% off using the “BIGHOLIDAY20” discount code.
Adult Lego lovers can make and remake their own unique drinkware with this cool and actually-functional building blocks mug. Available in nine base colors, the piece comes with toy bricks that you can build onto the sides and handle. (You can also utilize whatever Legos you already own.)
The mug is BPA-free and can hold both cold and hot beverages, though it should not be put into the dishwasher!
Promising review: “I bought this from my husband and he loved it for his birthday. The sizes grade. The quality of it looks amazing. It’s worth the money and it’s super fun for anybody who loves to build.” — Jasmine Sada
This practical multitool is a perennial holiday bestseller for a reason. Equipped with seven Allen keys and three different screwdriver heads, it’s a perfectly practical item for anyone to keep on hand; whether they’re a DIY-er, aesthetically minded, or both.
This sleek Adidas utility tote is intensely practical yet impressively chic in black (the vibrant teal version is already sold out, so this one may not last long either), with multiple zippered pockets and a handy luggage trolley strap. It can be worn crossbody or used as a tote, and even has a water bottle pocket that fits thermoses up to 1 liter (a feat in comparison to typical sized bottle holders). Reviewers also report using the water bottle pocket for umbrellas.
The piece is a real favorite among reviewers, too: Folks have given it 4.8 out of 5 stars, and rave about its thoughtful design and handy storage.
Promising review: “I purchased this to carry my workout, clothes and other related items back and forth to the gym. it’s an outstanding bag and comfortable to tote around. It fits well in all lockers. Great purchase!” — vrspike
Excel spreadsheets can mystify the best of us. This dishwasher- and microwave-safe porcelain mug contains all sorts of spreadsheet shortcuts, from filters and formats to functions and more. It’ll prove handy for all levels of Excelers, according to reviews, with shortcuts that’ll still be new to aficionados. And the most important part, of course: Coffee — 12 ounces of it.
Promising review: “Gives new meaning to ‘utilitarian.’ Reliable mug for coffee, tea, etc. Much longer lasting than a Post-It with your Excel shortcut keystrokes.” — Knoll
These rainbow Swedish dishcloths are a beloved eco-conscious alternative to paper towels. Made with ultra-absorbent cellulose and cotton, they become soft to the touch while wet but are gritty enough for scouring while dry.
They’re reusable, biodegradable and completely machine-washable — and they’re available in a number of stylish prints and patterns that makes this extremely practical item feel a little more festive and giftable.
Note: Clip the coupon for an added discount at checkout.
This two-in-one Splitflask tumbler will prove incredibly convenient for anyone sick of carrying around separate coffee and water bottles (as Drew Barrymore puts it: having to “double-fist” drinks).
This stainless-steel gizmo lets you store two drinks side by side in the same container, freeing up hands and reducing clutter for folks often on the go. It’s also legitimately leakproof (I own one that I have knocked over many times without a spill).
The tumbler can hold both hot and cold drinks, and is dishwasher-safe and BPA-free. Plus, the Splitflask’s assortment of colors add a little extra fun.
Clip the on-page coupon for 10% off applied at checkout.
Promising reviews: “Many times I’m leaving the house with my hot coffee mug and a bottle of water. This definitely has changed my life. The insulation is pretty good, keeping hot, hot and cold, cold.” — Annie O
“I had my eye on this cup for a while and I finally took the plunge and excited I did! I love having multiple drinks but can usually only carry one and I love to put them in my bag. I’m a mom of 4 kids and my hands need to be free. I used it this morning for hot coffee and cold ice water and the coffee stayed hot for about 6-7 hours and the it held the ice for about 8 (I dumped it out to replace the drink so it could have went longer!). You also have to factor in I kept opening and closing to drink my coffee and I add cold milk. I would say that’s pretty amazing! Now I have two cold drinks in it (strawberry margarita and regular margarita ha ha). I soft tossed it to my bed because I was doing laundry and my hands were full and no leakage at all! I love this cup and I’ve already told a few people about it!” — Tiffany G
This bestselling vampiric mincer can crush garlic like the best of them, plus quickly prep ginger, nuts and tons of different spices.
Promising review: “Bought this on a whim when I was browsing one day. We use a LOT of garlic in our house. I cheat and use the chopped kind in the jar in a pinch. But let’s be honest, it ain’t the same. For full delightful effect ya gotta use fresh. And anything that makes that easy is gold in my book. Well-designed, a snap to clean, and takes up very little space. Come to think of it, this is so darn cute I think I might keep it out. At the end of a hard workday, everyone could use something that makes them smile while prepping dinner! Now I can :-)” — amazon mamma of two
This handy little rechargeable electric lighter is ideal for anyone who loves candles and incense or who otherwise goes through disposable lighters and matches quickly. It’s intuitive to use and easy to charge, so it’ll serve your recipient well for a long time to come. Plus, it’s wind- and splash-proof so it can keep up with indoor or outdoor activities.
The electric lighter is available in six colors, including a fun bright green, deep blue and champagne gold.
A toothbrush may not feel like world’s most innovative gift, but the practical person on your list could be as blown away as we are by this double-duty electric toothbrush that also dispenses a stream of water for flossing. The water reservoir holds almost four ounces, and the lithium battery is designed to last for 24 hours before needing a re-charge. Clip the on-page coupon for an extra $20 off for the white toothbrush.
Make locating easily-lost objects a little cuter with these colorful Bluetooth Tile trackers. Just clip the Tile onto keys, pet collars and more — and then track items up to 250 feet away, see past locations once out of Bluetooth range and send sound alerts for added audio assistance.
They’re available in multiple colors and pack sizes.
Make meal prep a little more fun with this multicolored five-piece cooking set from Gir, the kitchenware brand best known for its viral spatula design. Designed to include the very essentials, the kitchen tools are made with pharmaceutical-grade silicone that’s dishwasher-safe and BPA-, BPS- and phthalate-free.
We’re also entranced by these positively cloud-like fleece-lined booties, which will feel divine to slip feet into after a long day. (That’s useful in and of itself.) They also have grippy soles so you can move around in them without fear of slipping and falling.
The plush ankle slippers comes in multiple fun colors, in women’s sizes XS-L and in men’s sizes S-XL.
You can get an extra 20% off using the “BIGHOLIDAY20” discount code.
A bidet is the kind of life-changing upgrade that you won’t know how you ever lived without. The epitome of wildly practical and never boring, a bidet will ensure you’re clean as a whistle instead of just scraping toilet paper around.
Multiple reviewers across Luxe Bidet‘s site say that they’ve gifted multiple to family members and close friends. Their loved ones enjoyed the gift so much, they bought seconds to cover all their bathrooms.
As a reviewer named Lee put it: “The more people get familiar with bidets, the more they like having them.”
Luxe Bidet’s Neo 320 Plus is an enviable starter bidet, with adjustable warm water, customizable water pressure and dual wash nozzles. It comes with everything else you’ll need for installation. Plus, you can even grab it in rose gold or gold!
Promising review: “This is our 3rd Luxe Bidet purchase and we love it! The rose gold looks elegant on our guest bathroom. Easy to install, easy to use & easy to clean. I love the hot water feature. I would highly recommend it to anyone, I actually gifted some friends and family with the old model and they loved it & purchased additional bidet for their bathrooms. Using bidet will save you money from buying toilet papers and you will also help save the environment & ofcourse, you’ll feel cleaner and fresher all the time. Thanks a lot!” — Kris
These adorable sports-inspired bowls can be used for cereal, ice cream, mac ‘n’ cheese, snacks or drinks — and your loved one can practice their skills tossing their toppings into the designs’ hoops, goal nets and gloves!
Each piece holds 14 ounces of liquid and is dishwasher- and microwave-safe!
Promising reviews: “My brother’s birthday was coming up, and he is a golfing madman. When I saw the golf mug, I just knew it would be perfect. He was in tears. Tremendousproduct.” — David Knutson
Your loved one will be the only one with an apron this cool. This colorful dessert puppies apron is made out of comfy cotton and features a handy front pocket and adjustable waist.
Promising reviews: “The quality is sturdy and the print is beautiful and makes me chuckle everything I wear it.” — Jennie
“As pictured. Vibrant colors, fits easily, of course. Recipient loved it. I didn’t want to part with it, truth be told.” — Conman the Contrarian
Dishwasher-safe and hand-painted in Thailand, these ceramic salt and paper shaker cats will steal the show during gift-giving season and forevermore at their dining table.
If your loved one is in need of an air purifier, why not wow them with this versatile option that will complement spaces both large and small? This 10-speed appliance is equipped with a HEPA filter and suitable for rooms up to 1,517 square feet in size, and its quiet performance won’t exceed 20 decibels. If table space isn’t a priority, the brand also makes an option that doubles as a planter.
While this gift has the potential to crack someone up or completely gross them out, there’s no denying that most of the people in your life could always use an extra set of nail clippers. This stainless steel set contains a foot-shaped clipper that’s a little over three inches long, and a smaller, 2-inch clipper in the shape of a hand. (PS: Once Amazon saw that we were interested in novelty nail clippers, we were presented with this mermaid-themed set and one adorned with some choice emoji. Feel free to go down this rabbit hole.)
Store any and all paperwork in this bright expanding accordion filer. The pro-level organizational tool sports 12 vibrant sub-folders that’ll keep track of every layer of your life in one fall swoop.
The folder is available in two sizes and two colorways.
These cute loose tea steepers will help brew your loved one’s drink to perfection. The neck functions as a steeping spoon and an easy stirring tool, while the body sits in their mug to infuse ground or powdered teas.
Available in multiple styles — like a lake monster Baby Nessie, a tulip and a crab — the infusers are dishwasher-safe and made with BPA-free, food-grade silicone.
Brighten their dishwasher situation while helping them keep track of whether their load is dirty or clean with this adorable magnetic dishwasher sign.
They can just flip the sign over as needed, and the piece’s sweet illustration and nostalgic vibe will help the chore feel a little less tiresome. You can grab it in two styles: A outdoorsy version and a cute yet chaotic study night option.
Promising reviews: “I love the look of these magnets and they’re already so helpful” — Liana Zorn
“I have one of my own already. My grandmother saw it and wanted one herself, so this is a gift for her.” — Kassandra Bayer
Allow these dinosaurs to lend a hand — or a spine — to make chowing down on hard-shelled tacos easier and even more fun. Nicknamed “Tacosauros” and “Tricerataco,” these durable holders are designed to hold two tacos at once. They can also help safeguard sandwiches, bagels, waffles and more.
Promising review: “Oh this product as been on my radar for well over a year. I knew this was needed to be gifted for my brother, a classic taco connoisseur. Functionally it does it’s job very well with many laughs and jokes, it is easy to clean and storage isn’t really great but it’s a nice center/conversation piece in the kitchen. Get this for its functional use and for the humor that comes along with it!!” — Melissa
Book lovers can keep their feet toasty while running errands or kicking back at home with these library card-themed socks, which come in two sizes.
Promising reviews: “I got these as a part of a book themed gift for my sister and they really add an element for fun to the gift.” — Esseldee
“Have as a gift to my mom and she wears them all the time! Says they are very comfortable, soft and durable.” — Jean
Football lovers will adore crowding around the game with this official NFL-licensed glass drinkware, which features an embedded metal football complete with faux-shattered glass. Only available at Uncommon Goods, this 16-ounce glass is also available in an 11-ounce version. You can also have your favorite team’s logo etched onto the glass for further customization!
Fill these sweet mini stoneware dishes with nuts, Goldfish or candy, or use them to store jewelry, keys and other goods. They’re microwave- and dishwasher-safe, so you can also use them for sauces and cooking.
Grab them in a cat or dog style (just act quickly if you’re interested: They sold out quickly last year).
Promising review: “I got these for my daughter for Christmas and she loved them! They are so cute and I love that they are all different. They’re the perfect size for trinkets, or a spoon rest or even little snacks. Very versatile!” — Kellie
If they love foamy drinks — like lattes or even frothy hot chocolate — this handheld milk frother is sure to be a hit.
The whisker is impressively versatile and can also be used to whip up eggs or salad dressing! Lightweight and battery-powered, it’s available in a bunch of different colors to make the gift a little more fun, like aqua blue, red and pink.
Note: Clip the coupon for certain colors and get an added discount at checkout!
