My friends have just finished building their first home and have finally moved into their new house. That in itself is a major milestone. Then they have to furnish all areas of the house from the living room to the new kitchen.
I know when I moved into my new place we had to do a massive trip to the supermarket to get everything we needed from cleaning supplies to fresh food.
The best housewarming gift ideas
The best housewarming gifts are practical, useful and suit the taste of the recipient. And sometimes it can be hard to find something that meets all of those requirements. But I am here to help you come up with something wonderful by providing some unique housewarming gift ideas.
Choosing the perfect housewarming gift can be made easy if you are attending a housewarming party. Just be sure to ask the host or hosts what they would like or need for this new chapter of their life. Getting something that they want always turns out to be the perfect gift.
First Day essentials
There are many items that you need on the first day in your new home. And sometimes it’s the most basic of essentials that get forgotten about. Here are my top items for the first day in a new home. Some things you could add to a housewarming gift basket:
- Toilet paper
- Paper towel
- Hand soap
- Dishwashing liquid or dishwasher tablets
- Milk and bread
- Coffee or tea
Plants and Flowers
I know that not everyone has a green thumb. But plants always make a great housewarming gift. Some hardy and low-maintenance houseplants include peace lily, spider plant, money tree, and snake plant.
If a real and alive plant is not an option, there are some really good fake plants out there. Dress it up with a nice pot or basket, and you might not notice that it’s an imposter.
A nice vase can also make a lovely housewarming present. Pop in some fresh flowers when it’s time to deliver them!
Kitchen Essentials
It can take a few years before you have a well-stocked kitchen with all the appliances and utensils. So first-time homeowners need a leg up when it comes to kitchen gifts.
Basic cooking utensils like wooden spoons, tongs and a spatula are always handy. I know I got two sets at my engagement party!
A chopping board or cheese board is also a good option, especially if they like to entertain.
And don’t forget about other useful items like baking trays, food storage containers, a pretty tea towel or an electric kettle.
Home Decor
There are so many options when it comes to home decor. And it can be tough to choose the right style in a new home. But if you know your friend well, then something to decorate their home can be a great choice.
Photo frames are a classic and often well-received gift. Why not pick a frame with space for lots of photos?
Beautiful wall prints can really liven up a new home. Choose prints from their favourite places, animals, and scenery or make your own. But don’t just save this for a housewarming, prints make a great birthday gift too!
Vases and other accoutrements like a scented candle can make a house feel more like a home. There are many different themes to choose from when it comes to home decor.
Cozy blankets and throw rugs or throw pillows can add a pop of colour and provide warmth and comfort on cold nights.
Seasonal decor like Christmas lights or tree ornaments, spooky signs or string lights are also another option.
Practicality Meets Thoughtfulness
It’s also easy to come up with some practical or thoughtful housewarming gift ideas.
Basic items like batteries, matches, or an electric lighter are always useful.
Smart home devices like switches, light globes and home assistants. Take your pick from Google or Amazon devices depending on what suits their needs best.
Wax warmers and oil diffusers do two tasks. They make your home smell amazing plus double as a beautiful piece of decor.
A bottle of wine or wine glasses also makes great yet traditional housewarming gifts.
Fun and Entertainment
One of the best things about living on your own is being able to do what you want and play the kind of music you like.
There are plenty of fun games that suit all different interests and age groups. Card games like Uno and Cards Against Humanity are always popular. If board games are your thing, you can’t go wrong with Monopoly (maybe there is a local version) or Ticket to Ride.
Take the hassle out of getting your friends off their family’s TV subscription. Purchase a gift card for their subscription to Netflix, Disney+, Paramount+, HBO Max, Prime Video etc.
Add to their bookshelf by gifting your favourite book or choose stylish coffee table books from one of their favourite brands.
Outdoor Living Essentials
Outdoor living items might not be high on the priority list when you first move into a house, especially in the colder months.
Gardening tools and equipment like gloves, secateurs and even a compost bin can be beneficial when you first move into a house. Moreso when there is already an established garden. But can also be helpful to those wanting to start a vegetable garden or looking to live more sustainably.
Outdoor furniture and decor like lounge chairs, cushions, bug zappers and outdoor rugs can often be forgotten about but make a useful housewarming gift.
If the new homeowners are lucky enough to have a pool, you could gift them some pool essentials. Things like sunscreen, towels, sun lounges and float rings are all considerate options.
Gift cards and vouchers
When you can’t think of a gift, give the thoughtful gift of a gift card or gift certificate. Almost all stores and online services offer gift cards. It also means your hosts can get what they want and need
- Local hardware store
- Meal delivery like Uber Eats, Doordash, Hello Fresh
- Fuel
- Grocery store
- Department stores like Kmart and Target
- Amazon
- Prepaid Visa
Group Gifts
Sometimes a group gift is the way to go. It helps spread out the cost but also provides the opportunity for a more meaningful or useful gift. It can help bring people together, strengthen relationships and leave a lasting impact on both the recipient and the givers. Whether you go in with friends or other family members, it’s a great way to get a practical gift.
Some great gift ideas for groups are:
You could also organise the gift of your time. Offer your time to help install a fence, plant a garden or paint. Think of it like a working bee but with your friends.
Regardless of what kind of gift you choose, it’s a wonderful way to show your love and support for them in their new home and stage of life.
