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Thoughtful gifts for mom that'll arrive in time for Mother's Day

Thoughtful gifts for mom that'll arrive in time for Mother's Day
Got your Mother's Day gift yet? Research from the National Retail Federation shows average per person spending this year is about $284. So before you go spending all that money, make sure it's for something the moms in your life actually want. I spoke to Elspeth Belton, Good Housekeeping's editor in chief, to get some do's and don'ts for Mother's Day. What should we not get mom for Mother's Day? Gifts that make more work for mom. I can confirm that mom does not want kitchen gear for Mother's Day. I once watched my father gift my mom *** new set of dinnerware, and based on her reaction, we're going to want to avoid the kitchen altogether. Similarly, you may think that that fancy robot vacuum that you have in mind is actually going to take work off of mom's plate, but ultimately vacuums are *** gift for the household, not for mom. So what should we get for mom instead? You're Going to green light self-care as *** gifting category for mom, you're gonna want to go *** step further from the gift certificate and actually book mom that appointment at the spa or at her facialist. Maybe get her *** round of yoga classes at her favorite studio or buy her some comfy loungewear from her favorite activewear brand. These are not gifts that encourage mom to work out. These are gifts that help appreciate the mental load that mom shoulders every day. Jewelry is another popular gift, making up the largest chunk of annual Mother's Day spending, $7.5 billion. I can confirm that jewelry never gets old and, and with all of the great lab grown gemstones on the market these days, high quality jewelry has never been more accessible. Is it? Ever *** good idea to get *** new mom *** gift that's really for the kids. That's *** really easy trap to fall into. We often see specifically for new moms with infants, *** gift that is like *** really beautiful outfit for the baby, but those are ultimately gifts for the child and not for mum. If you have young kids and you want to get them involved in the gift giving. Process, what are some good ways to go about that? Definitely start with *** handwritten card. These carry real meaning and never go out of style. If your child wants to make art for mom, you're just gonna want to consider how big is the art that we're that we're giving mom, because again, we don't want to make more work for mom and having her try to find *** place where she has to display this really massive piece of artwork. This should go without saying, but I'm going to say it anyway. When in doubt, ask your mom what she actually wants, right, mom? Right. I'd love some Sketchers sneakers, an Etsy gift card, *** Home Depot gift card, or even *** surprise. It is nice. All right, noted. Reporting in New York, I'm Ali Jasinski.
Good Housekeeping logo
Updated: 2:04 PM EDT May 1, 2026
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Thoughtful gifts for mom that'll arrive in time for Mother's Day
Good Housekeeping logo
Updated: 2:04 PM EDT May 1, 2026
Editorial Standards

You can never go wrong with flowers or chocolates, but there are so many more creative ways to impress the women in your life, especially for Mother's Day. Think a gold initial necklace she can wear every day, a puzzle she can display on her wall once finished, or a luxurious box of macrons from Ladurée sent right to her front door.

Our top picks:

Not to mention, there are luxe (but affordable) earrings on our list, along with a digital photo frame that both make for meaningful gifts. There are even a few ideas you enjoy together, like a challenge book full of adventures for you to share (it's an especially good option for your mom or sister who would adore nothing more than to make memories with you).

Can't view the picks below? Click here.

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Viral Gift

Tinted Lip Butter Balms

amazon.com
$45.60

Everyone is talking about Summer Fridays, so you can't go wrong with the viral lip butter balms. If you don't trust her favorite influencers, the Good Housekeeping Beauty Lab pros also swear by the nourishing formula.

Affordable Luxury Gift

Heart of Gold Bracelet

amazon.com
$38.00
$26.60

Impress her with this minimalist gold bangle (also available in silver and rose gold) that's earned thousands of positive reviews on Amazon. When she spots it's from Kate Spade, she'll think you spent way more than you actually did.

For the woman who loves design

Coffee Table Books

amazon.com
$30.99

If her home's aesthetic is important to her, these preppy coffee table books will bring a splash of color into any space. Note, the books aren't real, but purely decorative.

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Bistro Tile Margot Monogram Mug

anthropologie.com
$14.00

You can't go wrong with this iconic initial mug that draws inspiration from sidewalk cafes in Paris. It has a perfect five-star rating online, with many reviewers raving about how it's the perfect gift for anyone.

Hydrating Gel Body Wash + Body Lotion

amazon.com
$56.00

Elevate her morning routine with this trendy body wash and lotion duo made with seaweed extracts and Vitamin E. There's a bergamot and hinoki scent that is citrus, woody, and crisp.

Gift for Your Best Friend

DreamTech 1/4 Zip Jogger Set

nordstrom.com
$160.00

A cozy lounge set that feels like pajamas but looks polished enough to wear out is every woman’s dream. This set from Softies comes in eight colors and sizes XS to XXL. It can be worn together or styled as separates.

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Editor Favorite

Carver Digital Picture Frame

amazon.com
$179.00

These digital frames are easy to set up. A relative of one of our editors figured out assembly and connection in under an hour, without help. We also love that the gift giver (and others) can send photos directly to the digital frame via the Aura app — ideal for long-distance grandparents who want to keep up with their grandkids.

SHOP SIMILAR GIFTS: Best Gifts for Grandma

Self-Care Gift

Shower Steamers

amazon.com
$19.99

She can take her pick of six included shower steamers, ranging from scents of lavender to eucalyptus, for a spa-like experience in her own shower. They're packed with real essential oils.

Pebble Envelope Small Wallet

amazon.com
$210.00

Chances are, her wallet could use an upgrade. This timeless design from Tory Burch is made from pebbled leather and features a fold-over flap with snap closure.

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For the Woman Who Cooks

Recipe Binder

riflepaperco.com
$40.00
$30.00

For your mom, wife, or grandma who's always whipping up homemade recipes, this pretty binder will let her save her favorites. There are 16 tabbed dividers, 10 clear recipe card sleeves, adhesive labels, and illustrated reference pages.

Best Jewelry Gift

14K Gold Plated Hoop Earrings

amazon.com
$12.95

At the top of many women's wishlists is a pair of stylish, huggie earrings that they can leave in and wear with almost any outfit. For less than $20, this is that dream pair. The base of these huggies is sterling silver with 14K gold plating on top, and the stones are lab-grown cubic zirconia.

La Vie Est Belle Eau de Parfum

amazon.com
$95.00

So long are the days of only owning one perfume — our Beauty Pros say more women are building a fragrance "wardrobe." This elevated scent from Lancôme, with notes of soft iris, heady patchouli, and sweet vanilla, is perfect for the chic woman who loves a sweet, springy fragrance.

RELATED: 23 Best Perfumes, According to Our Beauty Pros Who've Tried Hundreds

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Personalized Mother's Day Gift

Embroidered 'Mom' Crewneck Sweatshirt

amazon.com
$34.95

Hit Mom right in the heart with this cozy crewneck sweatshirt, featuring a heart embroidered on the sleeve and her moniker stitched along the neckline. If she goes by something else, options like “Mommy,” “Mimi,” and “Mama” are available too.

DRx SpectraLite™ FaceWare Pro

amazon.com
$455.00

If she's ever mentioned an LED face mask, our Beauty Lab experts recommend this one from Dr. Dennis Gross. When we tried it, the mask seems to work wonders for all different skin conditions, including aging skin, wrinkles, acne, and redness.

Thoughtful Gift for Mom

Birthstone Necklace

etsy
$40.00
$32.00

Customize a necklace with the birthstones of her grandchildren—whether she has one or five. It's made from 925 sterling silver, and you can choose between rose or gold-plating.

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Fan Favorite

Everywhere Belt Bag

lululemon.com
$38.00

This isn't your ordinary fanny pack. Lululemon's Everywhere Belt Bag has a cult following, thanks to features like an adjustable strap, interior pockets, and water-repellent fabric.

For the Skincare Obsessed

So Hydrating Set

amazon.com
$21.99

Popular on TikTok, BYOMA is known for its barrier boosting products and colorful packaging. This travel-friendly set includes a mini creamy jelly cleanser, gel cream moisturizer, and hydrating serum.

Gift for Grandma

Hummingbird Feeder

amazon.com
$35.99
$25.99

This bright red hummingbird feeder is more than just a bold design choice, it's meant to simulate the color of flowers to help attract hummingbirds. The GH Institute found this feeder to be a breeze to refill and noted the base comes apart for easy cleaning.

RELATED: The Best Bird Feeders, Reviewed by Experts

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Luxury Gift for Mom

Eugénie Macarons

goldbelly.com
$88.00

Every mom could use a bit of luxury, like these artisanal confections made with a crunchy chocolate shell, a melting heart, and a gluten-free shortbread biscuit. You'll get 18 macrons from Ladurée, a world-renowned French patisserie.

EVA Waterproof Slide Sandal

nordstrom.com
$59.95

With oversized buckles, this trendy slide will become her go-to this summer — whether she's running errands or heading to the beach. The EVA-cushioned sole is designed to absorb shock and mimic the shape of a healthy foot. There are tons of colors to choose!

For the fashionable mom

Loop Suede Large Shoulder Bag

amazon.com
$348.00
$208.79

Impress your girlfriend with this knowledge: Slouchy shoulder bags are in this year. This chic design from Kate Spade is available in pebbled leather or suede.

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Frank Lloyd Wright 1000-Piece Foil Puzzle

amazon.com
$21.99

If she's into puzzles, this one will put her skills to the test. The geometric pattern, designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright, features gold foil, giving it a fun pop. Once the 1000-piece puzzle is complete, she can add it to a frame and hang it on her wall.

For Sourdough Bakers

Cast Iron Bread Oven

amazon.com
$309.95

If she loves cooking for the family, this heirloom-quality cast iron will help her achieve a perfect crusty bread. Grab a bread oven in her favorite color, and it'll double as a chic kitchen accessory.

Macaron Candle Trio

nordstrom.com
$54.00

Made to resemble sweet treats, this trio of rose-scented mini candles will make her home feel luxe. The coconut-wax blend is housed in geometric glass vessels that deliver an iridescent glow.

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for moms with a sweet tooth

Small Swedish Candy Gift Box

bonbonnyc.com
$18.00

Who doesn't love a sweet treat? Customize this gift box with a mix of sweet and sour gummies for a tasty surprise that isn't chocolate. Opt for the small gift box, or go all out with the large, especially if you plan on sneaking a few for yourself.

SHOP SIMILAR GIFTS: Best Gifts for Mother-in-Law

Large Hot Towel Warmer

amazon.com
$169.99

Few things compare to the comfort of a warm towel or blanket, and this warmer brings that cozy luxury home. With four timer settings, it turns any routine into a spa-like experience — just toss in her PJs, robe, or towel for a perfectly warm finish.

Disquette Slippers

amazon.com
$119.95

Lined with soft sheepskin, these popular UGG slippers will keep her feet cozy and warm. They're perfect for running errands or lounging around the house.

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Trifold Miror

amazon.com
$23.99

She'll be able to take her makeup and skincare regimen to the next level, thanks to the LED lights and magnification modes included in this vanity mirror. "I like the dimmer because sometimes these can get too bright for me to actually use," one of our Good Housekeeping Institute testers said. Other testers appreciate that the panels fold in, making the mirror slim and compact for storage.

Initial Pendant Necklace

amazon.com
$60.00
$48.00

Personalize her everyday look with a bubble initial necklace from Kendra Scott, a trending jewelry brand. This one features a paperclip chain and features a subtle sparkle.

Gift Under $50

40 oz Water Bottle

amazon.com
$44.23

This water bottle checks every box — cute, functional, and practical. With a 40-ounce capacity, it’s made from stainless steel to keep drinks cool and is conveniently dishwasher-safe, according to the brand. It also features a handle and a flip straw for easy sipping on the go.

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Gift for Grandma

Grandma's Story: A Memory and Keepsake Journal

amazon.com
$24.95
$13.12

Get to know Grandma (or Mom) a little better with this thought-provoking journal that will make it easy to learn more about her life story. There are engaging prompts and sections broken up by life stages.

For the Working Woman

Easy Tote Bag

cuyana.com
$278.00

For the woman who commutes to an office, this buttery soft leather tote features a spacious interior that fits a 14" laptop. You can also customize it with snap-on accessories that make it easier to stay organized.

For the woman who's always cold

Wearable Blanket

amazon.com
$59.00
$49.99

She'll be nice and snuggly with this cozy wearable Sherpa blanket. First seen on "Shark Tank," it's been selling lightning-fast on Amazon ever since, and it's available in a convenient one-size-fits-most design.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: The Comfy Wearable Blanket

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CREAMi Ice Cream Maker

amazon.com
$219.99
$199.99

This viral machine makes it easy to whip up homemade ice cream in minutes. She can experiment with endless flavor combinations, and can even try smoothie bowls, milkshakes, frozen drinks (hint: margaritas), and gelato.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Ninja Creami

for the crafty mom

Watercolor Workbook

amazon.com
$24.95
$15.27

If she's in her hobby era, set her up with this watercolor workbook that includes 25 beginner botanical projects for her to fill in with her colors of choice. Each project is said to take under 30 minutes for a quick craft session, according to the brand.

Trendy Gift

Satin Heatless Curling Set

amazon.com
$15.98

Any gift that decreases the time it takes to get ready and increases sleep in the morning is a win. This heatless curling set claims to do just that. She can wrap her hair around it before she goes to bed, sleep on it, and pull it out come morning for what reviewers are calling "perfect, easy curls."

SHOP SIMILAR GIFTS: Best Gifts for Sister

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Pura Plus

pura.com
$79.99

This smart diffuser allows her to schedule exactly when — and how strong — she wants her home to smell. "I received this as a gift, [and] I was instantly obsessed," says Tina Martinez, food producer. "Every day when I come home from work, my apartment smells incredible. Plus, there’s a huge variety of fragrances to choose from."

Unique Gift

Cold Case Murder Mystery Game

amazon.com
$26.99
$19.99

Ditch the romantic gift this year, and opt for something that caters to her interests. If she devours true crime series, she should try her hand at solving a mystery of her own. With suspects, clues, and over 50 documents and photos to sift through, she's sure to close the case.

Couples Edition

amazon.com
$47.99

This book will let her know how much you love spending time with her. It features unique date ideas, from simple things like baking a pie to more adventurous options like taking a road trip. It comes with prompts to fill out and places to hold photos.

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Gift for your sister

Personal Safety Alarm

amazon.com
$29.95
$27.95

When activated, the alarm will blast a siren sound and set off a flash strobe light to help deter potential attackers. When we tested it in the GH Institute, our experts noted that it's easy to use, lightweight, and works at a distance.

SHOP SIMILAR GIFTS: Gifts for Women in Their 20s

Shiatsu Back and Neck Massager

amazon.com
$29.99

Our GH Institute experts praised this budget-friendly Shiatsu massager for its three speed settings and four 3D nodes that gently dig into tired muscles for a deep-tissue massage experience. It also has over 13,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, where one satisfied buyer shared, "I haven't had upper back pain since I got this, and regular massages just aren't in my budget."

RELATED: The Best Back Massagers for Relieving Aches and Tension

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