Gifts for hard to buy for moms

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Finding the perfect holiday gifts for a mom — be it for your own mother, grandmother, mother-in-law, aunt, or a new parent on your list —  can be tricky. She might claim she doesn't want anything or have very specific tastes, so finding a thoughtful gift might require some extra thought.  

Even if they don't give you much to go off of directly, the key to shopping for moms is simply to pay attention to their likes (and dislikes). Whether she's a minimalist, bookworm, foodie, nature lover, techie, or fitness fanatic, we've rounded up a selection of gifts below, guaranteed to bring a smile to every mom's face.

A luxury set of maternity essentials

Hatch To Hospital X Jenni Kayne, available at Hatch, $398

Best for: The expectant mother

Expecting mamas with no clue what they should be packing for the hospital will love this pre-made kit designed by maternity brand, Hatch in collaboration with California lifestyle brand, Jenni Kayne. The limited-edition box is a bundle of joy all its own, as it consists of luxury essentials that will help make Mom feel supported but pampered, too, including a matching nightgown, robe, and cozy cashmere socks.

A subscription specifically for petite clothing

Short Story Petite Styling Subscription Box, available at Short Story, from $50

Best for: The petite fashionista

If the mom on your list is a fashionista standing at or under 5'4", a Short Story Subscription is the perfect gift. Each box is curated by a professional stylist tapped into petite fashion and caters to the subscriber's preferences and needs. From tops to dresses to accessories, outfits are handpicked and boast brand names from Vince Camuto to Blank NYC, because no one should have to sacrifice style to accommodate their height.

A silky slip

LUNYA Washable Silk Slipdress Nightgown, available at Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, and LUNYA, $198                                         

Best for: The slip lover

Do you know what pairs exceptionally well with holiday cheer? Anything cozy. Enter this silky slipdress from LUNYA that is breathable, thermoregulating, and machine washable. It comes in three colors (Immersed Black, Meditative Grey, and Otium Tan) and is designed to be a bit oversized for optimal comfort.

A personalized gold bar necklace

Tiny Tags Gold Skinny Bar Necklace, available at Tiny Tags, from $145

Best for: The minimalist

This Skinny Bar Necklace from Tiny Tags is about to be their new favorite accessory. Available in either yellow, white, or rose gold, and three length options (choker, STD, or 18 inches), the necklace is a personalized accessory that can fit up to 25 characters of text. Whether you engrave the piece with the names of their children, birthdates, or a sweet quote, the sentiment is sure to warm their heart.

A crossbody phone case and wallet

Kimberly Leather Crossbody, available at Bandolier, $128

Best for: The mom who hates bulky bags

If all they need is something to store their phone and wallet, this stylish crossbody case was invented for them. It accommodates a wide range of smartphones and features card slots and a snap pocket to keep their essentials all in one tiny, easy-to-access place.

The gift of comfortable loungewear

Women's loungewear and sleepwear, available at Tommy John, $48

Tommy John E-Gift Card, available at Tommy John, from $25

Best for: The mom who loves to lounge

The Insider Reviews team is positively smitten with Tommy John's loungewear and underwear — so much so, we named the latter one of the best women's underwear brands in our buying guide, so you can be sure Mom will love it too.

A diamond charm of her initials

Diamond Letter Charm, available at Mejuri, $225

Best for: The mom who loves personalized gifts

Quite a few mothers rock necklaces with their initials — or, sometimes, even their children's or spouse's. It's sweet and sentimental, but also really chic, especially when the charms are these diamond ones from Mejuri. Pair it with one of Mejuri's dainty chains so it's ready to wear or let Mom add the charms onto one of her own necklaces. 

You can also browse more jewelry gifts for mom here.

An ultra-comfy loungewear set that's one of Oprah's Favorite Things

AirEssentials Wide Leg Pant, available at Spanx, $118

AirEssentials Half Zip, available at Spanx, $118

This AirEssentials set from Spanx is one of the comfiest sets we've ever tested. Sally Kaplan, the executive editor of Insider Reviews, says it's her go-to travel outfit and all-around favorite sweatsuit. The material is lightweight and buttery, not too hot but not too light, and the pieces are easy to mix and match with other wardrobe staples.

The pants are available in petite, regular, and tall sizes, and each set comes in a few neutral colors. The sweatshirts come in several styles — a cropped pullover, regular pullover, and half-zip — and if you don't think the wide leg pant isn't quite right for your giftee, you can also buy a tapered jogger-style pant in the same material for $110.

Popular leggings with a no-slip fit

Daily Legging, available at Vuori, $89

Best for: The mom who prioritizes comfort

Vuori is well-known for its super-soft fabrics and flattering cuts, and the Daily Leggings are just another example. This style looks like a pair of joggers but fits like a pair of leggings. The high waistband and drawstring allow for a snug feel while the brand's smoothing technology gives an airbrushed appearance.

Read more about the Daily Legging here.

A pair of cozy, eco-friendly slip-on shoes

Women's Wool Lounger Fluffs, available at Allbirds, $89

Best for: The mom who loves sneakers

Keep mom looking cool and feeling comfy every time she leaves the house with these slip-on sneakers. Made with cozy soft merino wool inside and out, these shearling shoes are ideal for cool fall days running errands or meeting up with friends for lunch. The best part: The entire shoe is machine washable.

A luxurious bathrobe

Classic Bathrobe, available at Parachute, $109

Best for: The mom who takes self-care seriously

A plush bathrobe will make every shower feel like a trip to the spa. Parachute's soft Turkish cotton robe comes in four great colors: white, mineral, blush, and stone. This cozy gift for Mom will become her go-to pick. 

Read our full review of the Parachute Classic Bathrobe here.

A pendant necklace

Set & Stones Cheyenne Mama Necklace, available at Nordstrom, $232

Best for: The proud mama

Your mom will want to keep this pendant necklace very close to her heart. It'll sit lightly around her neck and be a subtle reminder of her special bond with you. 

If this is quite her style, you can browse more jewelry gifts for mom here.

A roomy work bag with tons of pockets

Dagne Dover Allyn Tote, available at Dagne Dover, from $340

Best for: The mom who's picky about bags

Dagne Dover's Allyn Tote is a sophisticated and spacious work bag with a padded laptop sleeve, water bottle holder, and other thoughtful interior pockets that will keep Mom organized and always ready to go. 

A comfortable, ethical sandal

Go-To Flatform Sandal, available at Nisolo, $117

Best for: The mom in search for a good summer sandal

Nisolo is known for its ethically and sustainably made footwear. The aptly named Go-To Flatform Sandal is a basic summer staple that can be dressed up or dressed down — a practical wardrobe necessity. 

Pearl hoop earrings

Mejuri Pearl Hoops, available at Mejuri, $78

Best for: The mom who loves minimalist jewelry

Get your mom a beautiful pair of earrings or a necklace with her zodiac sign that she can wear every day. Mejuri is a favorite jewelry startup of ours, so your Mom will likely enjoy this Canadian company's delicate jewelry, too. You can also browse more jewelry gifts for mom here.

Read our full review of Mejuri here.

A pair of sunglasses to block the sun in style

Check out GlassesUSA's selection of sunglasses, from $29

Best for: The mom who loves the sun

Sunglasses are spring and summer essentials and a perfect gift for Mom. GlassesUSA carries a wide variety of popular brands, including Ray-Ban, Oakley, Muse, Prada, and more. If you want a pair for yourself too, you can buy one and get one free with the code BOGOFREE at checkout.

Read our full review of GlassesUSA here.

A gold square watch to keep track of time

MVMT Signature Square Bracelet Watch, available at Nordstrom and Macy's, from $102.40

Best for: The mom who hates using her phone for a watch

This elegant square watch bears a minimalist and luxurious design that elevates any look. The gold watch is so impossible to miss that she'll now be on time for every occasion with it as a reminder.

A beautiful scarf with her birth-month flower

Birth Month Flower Scarf, available at Uncommon Goods, $48

Best for: The mom who likes sentimental gifts

Give her something beautiful to wear that will remind her how thoughtful you are every time she wraps it. This scarf is patterned with the flower of her birth month, a nice touch of under-the-radar personalization.

A chic purse that can turn into a backpack

Alunna, available at Senreve, from $595

Best for: The mom who hates lugging stuff on her shoulder

A purse is an obvious gift for Mom if she has an eye for handbags, but you can mix things up by giving her one that's both a purse and a backpack. The Alunna by Senreve is versatile and stylish, and it can be worn on her back, hand, over the shoulder, or across the body. Plus, it can organize all of Mom's essentials with its two interior pockets and exterior cardholder.

Luxe slippers with a cozy cashmere blend

Slippers, available at Margaux, $248

Best for: The mom who refuses to walk barefoot on hardwood floors

Made from a soft wool-cashmere blend and cushiony foam padding, Margaux slippers feel like stepping into a cloud. Mom will enjoy wearing any of the three styles — Slide, Ballet, or Cozy — around the house.

A leather wallet that can be monogrammed with Mom's initials

Klyde Continental Wallet, available at Leatherology, from $140

Best for: The mom with the wallet that's falling apart

A sophisticated leather wallet instantly elevates a busy mother's everyday style and keeps her organized when she's constantly moving from place to place. You can get this leather wallet from Leatherology in 11 colors and three different personalization options. 

A personalized T-shirt

Personalized Women's Fitted Crew, available at Known Supply, $32

Best for: The new mom beaming with pride

You can personalize this comfortable Pima cotton tee with "mom" or "mama" — or any other name that's under nine characters — in cute, loopy cursive. 

A crossbody bag with a hand-painted monogram

Midi Sac, avaliable at Claire V., starting at $335

Best for: The practical yet stylish mom

This leather crossbody bag comes in tons of colors and is great for travel and daytime outings — for an extra $50, you can customize it with a gold foil or hand-painted monogram. 

A passport cover and luggage tag

Deluxe Passport Cover + Luggage Tag Set, available at Leatherology, starting at $75

Best for: The mom who travels more than you do

Mom might be planning her next trip out of town, and what better travel accessory to have than a personalized passport cover and luggage tag? She'll be less likely to lose her passport or suitcase thanks to these colorful accessories that also sport her initials. 

A dish purely for melting cheese

Emile Henry Cheese Baker, available at Amazon and Emily Henry USA, from $50

Best for: The cheese lover

As far as we're concerned, cheese lovers and entertainers need this stunning glazed baker from Emile Henry. It's both a heavy-duty pot and a stylish serving dish that melts and keeps cheese melted for deliciously decadent dips and fondue. Don't be surprised when night outs become nights in, because who needs takeout when there's ooey, gooey cheese to enjoy? 

An impressive electric kettle

Beautiful by Drew Barrymore 1.7L One-Touch Electric Kettle, available at Walmart, $39.96

Best for: The tea drinker

While there's nothing quite like a stovetop-boiled cup of tea, electric kettles are also beloved by tea drinkers for their speed and efficiency. This programmable model from Beautiful by Drew Barrymore, for example, can boil up to seven cups of water in under seven minutes. What's more, the touch-activated appliance features four preset options for white, green, oolong, and black teas, to ensure every cup is brewed to perfection. It also comes in six beautiful colors, including Merlot and Sage Green, so you can easily match the kettle to their kitchen decor.

A box of beautiful holiday chocolates

Compartés Holiday Chocolate Truffles, available at Compartés, $39.95

Best for: The chocolgate lover

If they have a sweet tooth, Compartés Holiday Truffles are sure to curb their craving. But this is no average box of chocolates; each treat boasts a uniquely festive flavor, from gingerbread and decadent butter pecan to pumpkin, sticky toffee, and more. You won't be just gifting them dessert; you'll be gifting an experience any candy connoisseur won't want to miss this season.

A gift card to buy whatever food they're craving

Goldbelly Gift Card, available at Goldbelly, from $25

Best for: The homesick foodie

If your mom has a favorite city or place that she misses (or just craves a food she can't easily get where she is), a Goldbelly gift card goes a long way. Goldbelly is one of our favorite services when it comes to delivering regional meals, meal kits, and desserts, be it Maine lobster rolls, Southern BBQ, or NYC bagels. 

A delicious treat from Milk Bar

Milk Bar Treats, available at Milk Bar, from $27

Best for: The mom with the sweet tooth

Milk bar cakes topped our list of the All-Time Best things we've tested and these treats will definitely satisfy Mom's sweet tooth. Choose from a limited-edition Strawberry Shortcake Cake, the bestselling B'Day Truffles, and plenty more. We break down how to shop for Milk Bar online, here. 

Read our full review of Milk Bar.

A cocktail maker that mixes drinks in seconds

Bartesian Premium Cocktail and Margarita Machine, available at Amazon and Williams Sonoma, from $299.99

Best for: The bartender mom

Summer's almost here, which, for some moms, means it's time to break out refreshing cocktails. This cocktail maker will make Mom's life a whole lot easier, since all she has to do is pop in a cocktail capsule, choose her preferred strength, and press mix. She'll be sipping a margarita, cosmopolitan, or gin martini in seconds.

Read our full review of the Bartesian Premium Cocktail and Margarita Machine here.  

A wooden gift crate with 2 pounds of cheese inside

Murray's Cheese Greatest Hits Gift Box, available at Murray's Cheese, $108

Best for: The mom who *always* says yes to cheese on her pasta

Cheese lovers will find a lot to like in this wooden gift crate (yes, crate) from Murray's Cheese, which includes two mouthwatering pounds of English cheddar, brie, cave-aged Gruyere, and one-year-aged Manchego along with snacks to pair with each cheese: spiced cherry preserves, sea salt crackers, and Marcona almonds.

For more of the best from Murray's Cheese, check out our guide to the best cheeses you can buy online.

Read our review of Murray's Cheese gift boxes.

A cookbook focused entirely on vegetables

Milk Street Vegetables Cookbook, available at Amazon and Bookshop, from $26.35

Best for: The vegetarian chef 

If your mom is a vegetarian (or just trying to do more Meatless Mondays), this cookbook takes inspiration from the many ways in which vegetables are celebrated by different cultures around the world.

A Le Creuset dutch oven

Le Creuset Round Dutch Oven, available at Williams-Sonoma and Crate & Barrel, from $260

Best for: The mom with chipped pots

At $160, this Le Creuset dutch oven might be the most expensive piece of cookware in Mom's kitchen, but it'll also be the most used. It comes in tons of colors, so you can choose Mom's favorite. We've even ranked it as the best overall in our guide to the best dutch ovens. It's one of the best products we've ever tested.

Read our full review of the Le Creuset Round Dutch Oven here.

A cutting board in the shape of the state Mom calls home

Totally Bamboo State Cutting & Serving Board, available at Amazon and Totally Bamboo, from $14.99

Best for: The mom full of state pride

Available for all 50 states as well British Columbia, Puerto Rico, Long Island, and Ontario, this uniquely shaped cutting and serving board doubles as kitchen decor. 

An indoor herb garden that requires zero effort

Smart Garden 3 Indoor Gardening Kit, available at Click & Grow and Amazon, $74.96

Best for: The mom who loves a fresh garnish

Every chef knows that cooking with fresh ingredients like basil can make a big difference. The Click & Grow Smart Garden is a self-watering system that allows even the most amateur gardeners to quickly and effortlessly grow herbs and vegetables. We tried it and were impressed with how well it worked, as well as the truly effortless process. 

Read our full review of the Click & Grow Smart Garden 3 Indoor Gardening Kit here.

A tasty baking cookbook

"Dessert Person" by Claire Saffitz, available at Amazon and Bookshop, from $21.11

Best for: The mom who bakes all the time

For the mom who adores baking, this dessert cookbook has plenty of baking recipes to satisfy the family's sweet tooth. It offers recipes and guidance on how to bake sweet and savory treats whether it's a caramelized honey pumpkin pie or English muffins.  

If she already has it, here are some of the best baking books recommended by professional bakers.

A water bottle that solves all pain points

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Water Bottle (32 oz), available at REI and Amazon, from $37.92

Best for: The mom who needs to hydrate

Hydro Flask water bottles are one of the All-Time Best products we've ever tested and have a cult following for a number of reasons: The double-walled vacuum seal keeps hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold for hours on end, many products come with a lifetime warranty, and the bright colors add a bit of fun to something that's otherwise thought of as ordinary. You can hear more about why we love this water bottle in our guide to the best travel mugs. 

A delicious wine-mimic for healthy nights off

Jukes 6, available at Jukes Cordialities, $55

Best for: The sober mom

If mom loves vino, she'll love this tasty non-alcoholic substitute for nights where she's craving a glass but wants to stay sober. Created by a British wine critic, Jukes Cordialities are thoughtful and complex — the closest to the real stuff we've tried.

We personally love the full red mimic, Jukes 6, which is deep and spicy like a glass of Rioja, and pairs well with food in the same way wine does — all without the buzz and with the added health benefits of organic apple cider vinegar (the base).

A voice-assisted remote for all Mom's streaming needs

Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote, available at Amazon and Target, from $24.99

Best for: The mom who watches everything

She can access hundreds of streaming services, including Hulu, Netflix, Disney Plus, HBO Max, and more, with this affordable entertainment hub. Plus, Amazon Prime members get unlimited access to thousands of movies and TV episodes with Amazon Prime Video. This model supports up to 4K Ultra HD. You can read more in our guide to the best streaming devices.

The Amazon Echo

Amazon Echo (4th Generation), available at Amazon and Target,  $59.99

Best for: The mom who wants some hands-off help

There's an ever-so-slight learning curve in figuring out what Amazon's Alexa can and can't do, but once that's passed, the Echo can forecast the weather, read an audiobook, order a pizza, tell jokes, or any number of things Mom should find charming. 

Read our full review of the Amazon Echo (4th Generation) here.

A step tracker to keep her moving

Fitbit Charge 5, available at Best Buy and Amazon, $99.95

Best for: The fitness enthusiast

If your mom's looking to stay on top of their health, we highly recommend gifting a very practical Fitbit. The Charge is one of our top picks for covering all the basics — counting steps, tracking sleep, 24/7 heart rate monitoring, tracking 20 different exercises — without breaking the bank, and all with an easy-to-read display and sleek design on the wrist.

(If she'd want smartphone notifications on her wrist, too, we recommend the Versa 2, which has a bigger display but is still reasonably priced.)

Alexa-enabled glasses

Echo Frames Smart Glasses, available at Amazon, $269.99

Best for: The mom who wants the glasses of the future

If your mom loves tech, they'll think these smart glasses are from the future. Amazon's Echo Frames allow for open-ear audio, hands-free calling, and access to thousands of Alexa's skills.

Read our full review of the Amazon Echo Frames.

A cuter way to send mom "love you" messages

Lovebox Spinning Heart Messenger, available at Uncommon Goods, from $30

Best for: The mom who loves being reminded of how much you love her

Moms love nothing more than being randomly told their kids love them, and this creative box lets you do it in a way more special than just a text. When you send a message, the heart on the box will spin and she can open it up to read the digital display of your loving words.

A digital picture frame for remembering the good times

Carver Digital Picture Frame, available at Aura, $149

Best for: The mom who can't decide on one photo to frame

It's hard to find a mom who isn't obsessed with taking photos and displaying them all around the house. But instead of buying tons of picture frames, she can show off all her family photos using this digital picture frame. You can upload an unlimited amount of pictures to the Aura app, connect the frame to Wi-Fi, and she's all set. 

Read our full review of Aura here.

A waterproof Kindle Paperwhite

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite, available at Amazon, $129.99

A rejuvenating, at-home foot massager

RENPHO Foot Massager Machine, available at Amazon and Walmart, from $102.38

Best for: The mom who loves an at-home spa day

Treat her to a spa day any (and every) day she wants with this at-home foot massager. It's a full-service Shiatsu device that offers kneading, compression, and heat therapy. We love that it encompasses your ankles too for extra relief, all of which is why it's our top pick.

An alarm clock that uses light to wake her up gently

Philips Light Alarm Clock, available at Amazon and Philips, from $99.95

Best for: The mom who struggles waking up in the morning

Just because Mom has to wake up before the sun rises doesn't mean they have to awaken to the blaring of an obnoxious alarm clock.

Philips makes a lovely alarm clock that gradually lights up to mimic the sunrise. The light alarm clock also displays the time and has customizable sounds, so Mom can wake up feeling rested and ready for the day. You can find out why we recommend this alarm clock in our guide to the best sunrise alarm clocks. 

Read our full review of the Philips Wake-Up Light.

A mini massage gun

Theragun Mini, available at Therabody and Amazon, from $149

Best for: The mom who's always working out

If she's achy from regular exercise or a pulled muscle, every type of person will see benefit from using a massage gun. We love the Theragun Mini because it'll work out kinks and aches anywhere you place it with a powerful motor and easy-to-hold grip.

A soothing, interactive sand sculpture

HoMedics Drift Sandscape, available at Best Buy, Walmart, and Bed Bath & Beyond, from $319.99 

Best for: The mom who appreciates sand art

Whether they're a new or seasoned mama, anything that can serve as an element of calm in their chaos is going to be appreciated. We love the HoMedics Drift Sandscape because it does exactly that, but subtly, and it doubles as decor. The shifting sand, illuminated with soft LED lighting, changes shape based on the movements of the metal sphere, and just watching these shapely creations come to life can promote a sense of relaxation and calm they may not have even realized they needed. Plus, the sculpture is small enough that it can fit on a side table or desk, and is automated via a smartphone app. 

Fresh flowers every month

BloomsyBox Subscription, available at BloomsyBox, from $44.99 per month

Keep the bouquets coming with a subscription to BloomsyBox. With options from monthly to weekly deliveries, the BloomsyBox flower subscription service ships gorgeously crafted collections of stems from eco-friendly farms straight to your lucky recipient's door. From roses to more exotic, tropical blooms, the plant-loving mom on your list will look forward to displaying their new arrangement each month.

A fresh flower bouquet

Fresh flower bouquets, available at UrbanStems, from $35

Best for: The mom who loves the classics

We've ordered bouquets from UrbanStems and it offers gorgeous flower arrangements, potted plants, and even dried bouquets, and they're delivered quickly, too. A bouquet of flowers is a classic gift for Mom that she'll love on any given day. Its bouquets are one of the best things we've ever tested. 

Read our full review of UrbanStems.

A candle for your favorite spot together

Memory Candles, available at Homesick and Amazon, from $21.28

Best for: The mom who loves reminiscing 

Whether your best memories are childhood ski trips, your annual beach vacation, or just baking in the kitchen together, share the sentiment with mom. Homesick makes a deliciously-scented candle for nearly every memory — and if that doesn't work, it also has a candle for every state and city, astrology sign, and even one that simply says, "Thank you, Mom."

Soft, crisp sheets and bedding

Brooklinen Queen Classic Hardcore Sheet Bundle, available at Brooklinen, $195.71

Brooklinen Queen Luxe Hardcore Sheet Bundle, available at Brooklinen, $272.25

Best for: The mom who needs to be comfier

Brooklinen's luxe sheets are the ones we always recommend to friends, family, and readers, for their affordable price, sophisticated look, and comfort.

The Hardcore Sheet Bundles have everything she needs to completely makeover your mom's bed — and stay nice and cozy all year long. Each bundle includes a flat sheet, fitted sheet, duvet cover, and four pillowcases. Brooklinen also sells comforters, pillows, candles, and blankets. This is another item that features in our list of the All-Time Best products we've tested.

Read our full review of Brooklinen sheets here.

A custom map poster

Custom Map Poster, available at Grafomap, from $19

Best for: The mom who misses her favorite place

Grafomap is a website that lets you design map posters of any place in the world. You can make one of your mom's hometown, college town, favorite travel destination, or the place she got engaged or married — you're only limited by your imagination.

Read our full review of the Grafomap Custom Map Poster here.

A hardcover photo book for any mother figure

Hardcover Photo Book, available at Artifact Uprising, starting at $61.20

Best for: The mom with 17 old photo albums

Honor any mother figure with a custom hardcover photo album that commemorates their best life moments. You can tie in her life story with a display-worthy dust jacket that puts her front and center. Choose from 11 fabric binding colors to complement her bookshelf or coffee table.

A cute potted plant instead of flowers

Shop The Sill's selection of plants, starting at $20

Best for: The mom who prefers long-lasting plants

The Sill is a relatively new startup that's making the process of choosing and buying house plants much easier. This gift set is just one of many options you can choose from — you can even shop based on which plants are pet-safe. 

Read our full review of The Sill here.

A weighted blanket to help her sleep better

Bearaby 15-pound Cotton Napper, available at Bearaby, $249

Best for: The mom who cherishes being cozy

Made of soft organic cotton just like her favorite T-shirt, this weighted blanket can help Mom fall asleep faster and its buttery softness is perfect for wrapping up in. We ranked it as the best weighted throw blanket in our guide to the best weighted blankets. 

A jewelry holder

Swan Ring Holder, available at Catbird, $38

Best for: The mom who always loses her rings

This ornate swan is a subtle jewelry holder that'll dress up any bathroom countertop or nightstand.

A personalized photo calendar for her desk

Walnut Desktop Photo Calendar, available at Artifact Uprising, starting at $35

Best for: The mom who loves physical calendars

A desk calendar can add a decorative touch to her desk, but one that displays photos of family makes for an even better gift for Mom. She'll love glancing at her calendar and being reminded of her favorite memories with you.

A coffee table book for the mom who loves photography

"Women: The National Geographic Image Collection," available at Amazon and Bookshop, from $26.49

Best for: The mom who loves a good coffee table book

You can't go wrong with a coffee table book gift for Mom, and this one is a true standout. The photography is sure to be top-notch, since National Geographic created this book. Moms often serve as constant sources of inspiration, so why not pass along this book of powerful women?

A postpartum self-care kit

Honest Mama Beyond the Bump Kit, available at Honest, $55.95

Best for: The new mom in need of a break

If the mom on your list is new to the parenting life, treat her to the Honest Company's Beyond the Bump Kit that will give her body the TLC it deserves. The four-piece set includes body oil and lotion, bath salts, and nipple balm, all of which have been formulated to soothe and support the body in this crucial time of healing.

A skincare regimen that works

The Outset Daily Essentials Starter Set, available at Sephora and The Outset, from $25

Best for: The mom who wants to nail down a skincare routine

To make the self-care practice a bit easier to implement into their daily routine, surprise them with this essentials kit from The Outset. The skincare brand was founded by Scarlett Johansson and is one of the best celebrity beauty brands on the market by far. The set includes a trifecta of basic products that make up a complete regimen (a gentle micellar cleanser, a firming prep serum, and a daily moisturizer). Though only three simple steps, regular use is sure to offer quality results.

A sampler of eco-friendly cleansers

Banila Co. Clean it Zero Pink Wonderland Cleansing Balm Mini Set, available at Ulta, $12

Best for: The mom in search of a good cleanser

Arguably, one of the worst and most tedious parts of a nightly skincare regimen is taking off makeup. Wipes aren't super effective, plus they're not great for the environment. Banila Co.'s Clean it Zero set is perfect for the eco-conscious mom on your list who loves getting all dolled up but loathes getting un-ready at the end of the day. Whether they're dealing with acne or dryness, there's a formula in this set to remedy it. 

A comfier lactation set

Fourth Phase Mylk Box, available at Fourth Phase, $88

Best for: The mom currently breastfeeding

For new moms who've decided to breastfeed their children, Mylk Box by Fourth Phase can offer some support in this stage of motherhood. The lactation-supporting kit includes MylkBlend lactation tea, a hot and cold compress enhanced with lavender and flaxseed, a Rose Quartz GuaSha stone to massage the breast area and release milk engorgement, and a coconut oil-based salve for dry nipples. It's everything breastfeeding mamas need to stay lactating, and, even more importantly, stay comfortable through the process.

A robust bath bomb set

LUSH USA Sleepy Bus Gift Set, available at LUSH USA, $50

Best for: The bath lover

Moms require optimal rest to be the superhumans that they are, so if you're stuck on what to gift the mom on your list, you can't go wrong with treating them to the tools they need to clock in some quality snooze time. This aromatic gift set from LUSH includes six items meticulously crafted to promote high-quality sleep, including three bath bombs, one bubble bar, a shower gel, and a body lotion formulated with ingredients sure to lull them to sleep.

A fancy candle set

Otherland Candles The Threesome, available at Otherland, $89

Best for: The mom who loves quality candles

Candles make any home smell great, and this fancy candle set from Otherland will look gorgeous in any room in her house. It includes three coconut and soy wax blend candles in beautiful glass vessels. Each candle burns for 55 hours — that's a lot of time that your mom can spend enjoying this gift. We named candles by Otherland one of the All-Time Best products we've tested.

Read our full review of Otherland candles here.

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, available at Amazon and Walmart, from $12.99

Best for: The mom with chapped lips

If Mom is always complaining of rough or chapped lips in the winter, introduce her to her new favorite product: Laneige's lip sleeping mask. All she has to do is apply it at night before going to bed, and she'll wake up with smoother, softer lips.

A silk pillowcase to upgrade her beauty sleep

Slip Silk Queen Pillowcase, available at Amazon and Anthropologie, from $62.30

Best for: The mom who appreciates luxury

Upgrade Mom's beauty sleep with a pillowcase or two from Slip. Not only do silk pillowcases look and feel luxurious, but because they're made of a material that's not too absorbent, they're great for keeping skin and hair moisturized. 

A face mask set for at-home spa days

Mini Loves Mini Masks Set, available at Walmart, $49.99

Best for: The mom who never passes on a face mask

Moms need time to themselves, too, and these face mask minis will have her and her skin feeling rejuvenated. She can kick back and relax with one of the black tea masks, the clay mask, the rose mask, or even the sugar exfoliator.

A two-in-one hair dryer brush for easy at-home blowouts

Revlon 1 Step 2-in-1 Hair Dryer Volumizer Styling Brush, available at Amazon and Target, from $32.49

Best for: The mom who wants a salon blowout at home

If your mom has been eyeing the $600 Dyson Airwrap, this is a more affordable alternative that produces similarly easy blowouts at home. It's our favorite blow dryer brush if you're on a budget.

A luxurious facial treatment device

ZIIP GX Series, available at ZIIP Beauty, $495

Best for: The mom who cares about her skin

Switch up her facial appointments with the ZIIP experience that beautifully improves your skin beyond your imagination with every use. The ZIIP devices employ energy from tiny electrical currents with a conductive gel to sculpt and tighten the skin for a radiant glow. 

The weighted sleep mask that's the ticket to instant sleep

Nodpod Weighted Eye Mask, available at Anthropologie and Nordstrom, from $23.80

Best for: The mom who prioritizes beauty sleep

Move over, weighted blankets. These eye masks have gentle weights with just the right amount of pressure to lull her to sleep. The four equally weighted pods let her rest easy no matter her sleep position. 

A floral fragrance with a pear and white freesia scent

English Pear & Freesia Cologne, available at Jo Malone and Macy's, from $155

Best for: The mom who collects perfume

If she prefers a light yet luscious fragrance, this Jo Malone perfume makes for a lovely layer. This floral perfume accentuates her style with a smell of autumn from the freshness of the pear and freesias along with the subtle woodsy scents.

A subscription to a great workout

The Sculpt Society Subscription, available at The Sculpt Society, $19.99/Month

Best for: The fitness fan

Adult responsibilities can make it hard to find the time (let alone the motivation) to exercise. Add motherhood into the mix, and it can feel almost near impossible. For the fitness enthusiast on your list, there's The Sculpt Society, an app and workout regimen founded by celebrity trainer, Meagan Roup. Exercises within the program include a mix of strength training circuits and dance cardio, so there's something for everyone, and routines are customizable, so they can follow along with a class that best speaks to their body's needs on a given day.

An adorable reading light

Icon Book Light, available at Urban Outfitters, $20

Best for: The night reader

If the mom you're shopping for is big on night reading, this adorable clip-on light can help her stay cozy without needing to turn on additional lamps. It comes in three styles — a cute cloud, flower, or frog — and just needs separate batteries.

A calming meditation subscription

Headspace Subscription, available at Headspace, $69.99/Year

Best for: The mom who needs to clear her head

Mom or not, taking care of our mental health is an act of self-care that should not be skipped, and the Headspace app is an excellent gift for moms to help them stay on top of it. The app includes a library of guided meditations that cater to a variety of needs, like general mindfulness, stress relief, and better sleep.

A 101 online course on starting motherhood

Psyched Mommy Keeping Mommy in Mind Course, available at Psyched Mommy, $79

Best for: The mom in search of guidance

Motherhood is magical, but it's also life-altering, and many mothers feel as though they don't have the tools to stay healthy and grounded in all aspects of life outside of caring for their child. This course from Psyched Mommy would make an excellent gift for a new parent or mom-to-be who's obsessed with self-improvement and being prepared for anything and everything. It's split into seven modules that cover the essentials (i.e. how to make sure they're getting enough sleep and ways to better improve their communication with their partner) and, hopefully, leave them better equipped for this beautifully complicated season of life. 

A pass to access almost all the National Parks

America the Beautiful Pass, available at REI, $79.99

Best for: The road trip lover

For the mom who loves nature and road trips, it's hard to find a better gift than an annual pass to most of the US's national parks. It provides free admission to a car of up to four people to all participating parks and overall makes it so much easier to park-hop. It's the best nudge to get your mom to finally plan that Zion and Bryce Canyon vacation.

A vibrating foam roller

Vibrating Pliability Roller, available at TB12, $160

Best for: The mom in need of a good stretch

If she's very physically active, a foam roller is a nice gift to aid in her workout recovery and soreness. This one is our favorite because it has four levels of vibration, a pattern that targets muscle groups, and a durable exterior. But, if your budget doesn't fit a $160 foam roller, never fear — we like some under-$50 options too. 

A 'book of the month' membership

Book of the Month Membership, available at Book of the Month, from $49.99 for 3 months

Best for: The book lover

If she loves to read and isn't ready to go 100% digital, a Book of the Month membership is the perfect gift. This gift subscription gets Mom her pick of the best new books for $12.50-$15 a month, depending on the length of subscription you choose to give. She can also request extra books if she reads more than one book a month. 

You can learn more about Book of the Month here.

A yoga mat for the fitness enthusiast

ProLite Yoga Mat, available at Manduka and Amazon, $95

Best for: The yoga enthusiast

For the mom who starts every morning with yoga, this mat has just the right amount of padding, is made of eco-friendly materials, and has a no-slip grip texture. It has even earned the title of best yoga mat overall in our guide to the best yoga mats.

A year-long MasterClass membership to learn new things

Annual Membership, available at MasterClass, $180/year

Best for: The lifelong student

MasterClass, unlike many competitors, follows a format that feels like a one-sided conversation with your favorite icons rather than a traditional academic setting. You can get into the supplementary reading materials or just listen to their insight while running errands. An Unlimited Membership grants access to all the site's online courses for the year.

Some popular courses include Neil deGrasse Tyson on Scientific Thinking and Communication, Malcolm Gladwell on Writing, Shonda Rhimes on Writing for Television, and Bob Iger on Business Strategy and Leadership.

Read our full review of MasterClass here.

A jigsaw puzzle featuring a family photo

Memorable Family Jigsaw Puzzle, available at Zazzle, starting at $23.96

Best for: The mom who loves a good puzzle

If your mom loves puzzles (and has finished practically all of them), this custom one featuring a cherished family photo will earn a spot on the wall when it's done.

A daily planner for the busy mom

Panda Planner Daily Planner, available at Amazon and Panda, from $19.97

Best for: The journaler

Even the most organized mom could use the help of a trusty planner. This one from Panda Planner has monthly, weekly, and daily sections for all of her needs. She'll have her schedule, tasks, goals, and projects all in one place. We like the layout of this planner so much that we include it in our guide to the best planners.

A DNA test kit

23andMe Health + Ancestry DNA Test, available at 23andMe, $129

Best for: The mom interested in her family tree

This genetic test kit from 23andMe is a unique and cool gift idea for any mom who's interested in learning more about her family history.

A personalized video message from her favorite celebrity

Personalized video message, available at Cameo, from $1

Best for: The celeb-obsessed mom

When trying to think of a unique gift for Mom, one that might not immediately come to mind is Cameo. The online service has tons of famous people she might want a personalized video message from, like her favorite actor from "The Office." Whether it's for her birthday, Mother's Day, or a different milestone, there's something for everyone on Cameo, with all types of categories and price points to choose from.

Read more about Cameo and how to use Cameo. 

Ellen Hoffman

Editor-in-Chief, Service Journalism

Ellen Hoffman is the Editor-in-Chief of the Service Journalism division, where she oversees Insider's reviews, reference, and personal finance coverage. Ellen joined the company in 2015 as the founding editor for reviews and grew the team to more than 30 editors, reporters, and fellows. For the last six years, she has led the strategic planning for coverage of major retail sales events like Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday. She has also appeared on Fox Business' "Mornings with Maria" as a product expert. In 2018, she was "Highly Commended" by the panel for the FIPP and UPM Rising Stars in Media Awards. Previously, she was the shopping editor at Refinery29. She graduated from Fordham University with a degree in history and economics.Say hello at [email protected], and tweet her @ellehoff11. Learn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here.

Remi Rosmarin

Commerce Reporter

Remi is a former reporter for Business Insider's affiliate commerce team, Insider Reviews. After graduating from Colgate University with a degree in Creative Writing and Political Science, Remi joined Business Insider to help readers find the best products worth buying. Since joining the team in 2018, Remi has reviewed hundreds of products and interviewed founders of industry disruptors, such as direct-to-consumer startups Koio and Absolut Art.  She specializes in women's lifestyle, but loves to learn about any and all products that add value and excitement to our everyday lives. Say hello at [email protected].  Learn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here.

Julia Guerra

Julia Guerra is a contributing beauty/style and fitness writer for Insider Reviews. With over six years of writing across both verticals, she is forever testing all things makeup and skincare, fashion, athleisure, products that benefit women's health, as well as the best home gym equipment.  A full-time freelance writer and editor based in New Jersey, Julia previously served as a health and wellness reporter for Elite Daily and kick-started her career in the e-comm space as the beauty editor for BestProducts.com from 2015-2017. Julia's bylines have since spanned across publications like InStyle, Insider, SheKnows, Eat This, Not That!, MindBodyGreen, and more. When she's not writing (for work or creatively), you can find Julia curled up on her couch reading, practicing yoga, exercising in some capacity, adventuring with her husband, or spending quality time with family. Connect with her via Twitter @j_guerra27. Learn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here.

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Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected].

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