
Alpha Grillers digital meat thermometer
For the one who guards the grill and hates guessing when it's done.
HomeGifts under $25
Useful, giftable picks for coworkers, secret Santa and gift swaps, from mug warmers to self-care sets.

For the one who guards the grill and hates guessing when it's done.

Bright and waterproof, one for the car and one for the drawer.

A handy set for dry winter hands, easy to give to a teacher or coworker.

A hardcover of odd facts for trivia fans and bathroom-shelf browsers.

A road-trip planning book with ideas for every state.

Melts candles with no flame, a safe pick for anyone who loves a cozy room.

Pocket heat for cold games, runs and morning commutes.

A compact everyday knife for a brother or dad who likes to carry one.

Heats a packed meal at the office or in the truck.

Kernels and seasonings for a family movie night in.

Fizzing shower tablets for a quick at-home spa night.

A handy tool that fits odd bolts in the garage.

40 romantic and silly date ideas to scratch off as a couple.

A compact tool set for camping and hiking trips.

Safer than matches for the candle lover who burns them daily.

A desk stand that props up a phone and plays surprisingly full sound.

A soft throw with her own name on it.

A throw printed with a family photo and a short message.

A boxed set of little treats ready to hand over.

A jar of verse cards for days she needs encouragement.

A pocket multitool pen that stays handy for odd jobs.

A slim everyday wallet for a guy tired of a bulky one.

A vintage-look speaker that doubles as shelf decor.

One-handed grinding for anyone who cooks and wants a tidy counter.

A microwavable scented wrap for tight, tired shoulders.

A tidy grooming kit that fits in a travel bag.

A tidy start for anyone who hosts snack-and-wine nights.

A set of boards for chopping, a practical gift for new homes.

A soft, warm scarf that is easy to like and easy to wear.

A soft couch throw for the person who stays warm under blankets.

A silly silicone lamp with touch and remote controls.

A dimmable color lamp for a nightstand, desk, or dorm room.

Oil, balm and comb for a guy who keeps his beard in shape.

Popcorn kernels and seasonings for a cozy movie night in.

Keeps a cup hot at the desk with an auto shut-off.

A low-cost cozy extra for stockings and add-ons.

A board and serving tools for hosts who love cheese nights.

Handy lights for the garage or under the hood.

A warm hat with a built-in light for night walks and repairs.

A slim sling bag for carrying the essentials hands-free.

Keeps a traveler's toiletries organized in a hotel bathroom.

Catches clippings so grooming his beard stays tidy.

Sticks to the car or toolbox for hands-free light.

Cheap, soft and warm for anyone with cold feet.

A rugged toiletry bag that holds up on trips and in a gym bag.

A faith-themed set for someone who leans on her beliefs.

Turns any room into a calm spot with a soft mist.

A tidy grooming set that stays in the bathroom drawer.

A small buildable orchid that blooms on a desk forever.

Warm cushy socks for cold feet, an easy stocking add-on.

For commuters and job-site workers who want a hot lunch.

Fits phone and cards for a hands-free day out.

A quiet, screen-free way to unwind for someone who likes to relax.

Sixty cheerful notes in a jar for a friend or teammate.

A dice game that turns a gift swap into a laugh.

A rugged little speaker for camping, pool days and the trail.

A desk toy for the coworker who clicks and doodles through meetings.

A small clip-on folder with a seat belt cutter for the glovebox.

A silly pickle that answers any question, good for party laughs.

For the DIYer who is always dropping screws and nails.
At this price, the gift only has to be thoughtful and useful. Nobody expects more from a gift swap, a coworker or a classmate. A small item that fits the person beats a pricey one that doesn't.
This budget suits coworkers, secret Santa and white elephant swaps, teachers, neighbors and casual friends. It also works as a stocking filler for family.
Wrap it well and add a handwritten note. At this price, presentation does a lot of the work, and a card makes a small gift read as chosen, not grabbed.
Practical wins. The electric coffee mug warmer keeps a desk drink hot, and rechargeable electric hand warmers suit anyone who is cold at work. The Alpha Grillers digital meat thermometer is a favorite for anyone who cooks.
Self-care sets are safe for most people. Burt's Bees Hand Repair gift set, shower steamers and sheet masks add up to a nice small gift.
Pair two items. A bamboo charcuterie board with a small jar of jam, or a popcorn kit with a movie night snack, looks planned and stays in budget.
Check reviews and avoid anything that depends on size or taste. Candle warmers, books like The Book of Unusual Knowledge and 50 States, 5,000 Ideas travel well.
For a swap with strangers, choose something broadly useful, like the Victoper LED flashlight 2 pack or an essential oil diffuser. Skip anything personal, such as perfume.
For coworkers you barely know, stay neutral: nothing scented, nothing sized, nothing with a strong opinion. Cheese boards, flashlights and popcorn kits are hard to dislike. If you have a bit more to spend, everything under $50 is in one place, and the housewarming and boss lists have ideas for those occasions.
Quick answers before you buy
A mug warmer, a bamboo cheese board, hand warmers, a candle warmer lamp or a self-care set. Pick things that suit most people.
Something people will fight over: a heated lunch box, a popcorn kit or a Bluetooth phone stand work well.