72 Best Practical Gifts for When You Have No Idea What To Buy

Your giftee might've tried traditional flossing methods or a water flosser, but you can help them completely revamp their oral hygiene routine by gifting them Flaus' electric flosser. This nifty device simplifies what can often be a tricky process by easily getting to hard-to-reach areas. Mark, AT's director of commerce, said it even makes him look forward to flossing. "This gadget makes flossing so much faster," he noted. "You just turn it on to your desired speed, bite down on the little floss strand, and it slips easily between each tooth. My mouth feels super clean when I'm finished." What's more, the device has a two-month battery life!

If your loved one travels a lot, they'll get plenty of use out of this portable pour over coffee maker. Corkcicle's Palmpress can be easily thrown into a carry-on for fresh, hot coffee no matter where they go, brewed in just three minutes. It's an editor favorite for a reason.

Laundry detergent can perhaps be too practical a gift, but not if you spring for the bougie kind. L'Avant Collective makes some of the best-smelling detergent out there, and it's also eco-friendly and gentle on the skin. Don't be surprised if your giftee asks for the product link after they use up their bottle!

Perfect for both travel and at-home use, these melatonin mints are infused with chamomile and lemon balm, ensuring a deep sleep every time. They have a pleasant berry taste and dissolve quickly, and let's be honest — their packaging is way giftier than the pill bottles they sell at Walgreens.

Everyone has their pillow preferences, but Coop's Original pillow is a definite crowd-pleaser. Filled with a hypoallergenic blend of cross-cut foam and microfiber, it provides all-night support. Your giftee will also appreciate the pillow's easily adjustable dual-case system and machine-washable materials, as well as its breathable construction. No overheating or neck cramps here!

Mark & Graham has some of the best gifts when it comes to tech and travel organizers that you can personalize with your giftee's monogram. This tech pouch is a prime example; it boasts multiple compartments for their phone, tablet, AirPods, charging cables, and more, all encased in a sleek leather shell.

If you know your giftee has a traditional bath mat, surprise them with this modern, quick-drying stone version. Our editors are big fans of Dorai's Zen bath stone, which won a spot on our Best List and has a rubber bottom to prevent you from slipping. Made from the brand’s patented material, Diomat — diatomaceous earth and recycled paper — it’s created to feel like natural stone and prevent soggy messes.

Our editors will tell you that this silicone ice tray is the next best thing to an ice dispenser. The recipient could use the adorably small ice pebbles for cocktails, or enjoy them in their daily coffee. Best of all, the tray is incredibly easy to use and clean, and it doesn't take up a lot of space in the freezer.

Summer beach days might've come to a close, but come next year, your bestie will appreciate this oversized, quick-drying towel, which comes with seashell-shaped stakes to prevent it from blowing away in the wind. The towel is available in 13 fun prints and effortlessly solves one of the most annoying beach problems.

While cleaning gifts are typically seen as a big no-no, we have a feeling your giftee will appreciate unwrapping the revolutionary Nori Press this holiday season. Thanks to its innovative "flat-iron-esque" shape, this handheld iron is magic for anyone who loathes traditional ironing. It has six fabric settings, and a steamer function, and it's especially nice on small, tricky areas like collars and hems, smoothing them in one quick press.

This ingenious cable organizer is one of those products your bestie might not think to grab for themselves, but once they own it, they'll wonder how they ever lived without it. The organizer is beloved for how incredibly chic it is and how well it holds cords while also providing a power strip with up to seven outlets. They'll no longer have to deal with an eyesore of jumbled wires.

Whether your friend has a large or compact vehicle, this organizer will provide some much-needed organization to the trunk of their car. It has three compartments and handles to easily move it to and from the vehicle, and it folds flat so they can tuck it away when not in use. Additionally, it's made with a water-resistant material to protect it from any spills.

It’s a nightmare scenario: you get to an adorable restaurant or bar with your group, only to realize the only place you can safely put your bag is on your lap. Remedy this for the bag lovers in your life with the Clipa 2 bag hanger. This hinged clip opens up to attach to edges, ledges, bars, and openings, keeping bags up to 33 pounds safe and off of the floor. Best of all, the Clipa2 is also pretty stylish, coming in eight finishes. What's not to love?

If you're giftee is a travel fanatic, there's nothing better than giving them with the ultimate carry-on: The Quince Carry-On Hardshell Suitcase. This pick made AT's MVPs as a must-have for Mark, AT's director of commerce, after he took it on two trips. "The suitcase handled the 20-minute walk to Penn Station nicely, gliding smoothly across the bumpy pavement of the sidewalk and streets, and taking knocks from going up and down curbs like a champ," said Mark's review of the Quince suitcase. "Once on board my train, the lightweight luggage easily fit into the overhead compartment and still looked good as new."

Homemade iced coffee can be pretty disappointing. It either takes FOREVER to chill or it’s completely watered down from all the added ice. But if your coffee-loving friend has this nifty gadget in their freezer, they can chill their favorite brew to a refreshing 72 degrees in just one minute. Cool!

It happens all too often that you're running out the door or packing for a trip, and your portable charger is nowhere to be found. You can save your BFF from such trouble by gifting them this powerful yet compact charging block, which is compatible with a variety of smartphone models. With more than 1,100 five-star ratings, it's one of Best Buy's most popular models.

Easily removing lint balls, pills, and pesky fuzz from clothing, upholstery, and more, there’s a reason why the Conair fabric shaver is an Amazon and AT-reader favorite. Its blades are sharp and durable, and it comes with three adjustable shave heights that help maintain wool garments and delicate fabric. I mean, 89,000 five-star reviews can’t be wrong, right?

Working from the same spot every day can get boring, so if your bestie works remotely, treat them to a lap desk. With this affordable Amazon find, they could even work from bed if they wanted to. The lap desk will also come in handy for eating, streaming, doing nails, and a variety of other everyday tasks.

This mini personal-sized fan is the next best thing to a personal cabana assistant. Banish sweltering temps with its mini-but-mighty motor and dual speed settings. It also contorts into two folding designs, so you can go hands-free, and boasts a flashlight and charger on one end for when the sun (and battery) goes down. We're calling this pick the ultimate stocking stuffer.

We're all about small-space-friendly finds and this tiny, tabletop lamp is as eye-catching as it is smart. "Measuring around 3 inches tall, the Mina lamp fits easily in the palm of my hand, but should you desire a larger lamp and more light, there are also medium and large versions that are about an inch or two taller," wrote contributor Caroline in her review. "Its teensy size, combined with the USB-recharging functionality, makes it highly portable." The lamp takes inspiration from mid-century modern and Scandinavian design, so it'll add a sophisticated touch to any reading corner.

Fall is the best time of the year to pull out the Dutch oven and if you're foodie fanatic friend is missing one in their cooking arsenal, this Lodge pick makes the perfect gift. Combining versatile porcelain enamel with Lodge’s legendary cast-iron technology, this vessel sears, roasts, and braises just as good as the big names.

Ah, the bidet. Everyone has an opinion on them. But if the Squatty Potty has become universally beloved, then why can't this? The Tushy bidet is a modern take on a classic, attaching to most toilets in just 10 minutes and ready for instant use, no electricity required. An incredibly useful bathroom accessory, it would also make a great gift — maybe a little bit funny when someone first unwraps it (because, ya know, butts), but also pretty darn useful, too.

Phone germs are no joke, but you can help your relative stay sanitized with simplehuman's cleanstation. It sanitizes 99.9% of the phone's surface in just 30 seconds and would make a great addition to their entryway table as a result. This high-tech bacteria buster is fully worth the splurge.

Anyone who loves to travel knows that packing jewelry can be one of the hardest tasks — except with this tiny pick from Benevolence LA in tow. Perfect for anyone looking for something compact, we love this viral pick for its multiple color options, divided storage space, and included mirror (ideal for getting ready on-the-go).

Everyone could use a helping hand on cleaning day, and the Shark HydroVac Cordless Pro XL is the ultimate cleaning companion. This powerful 3-in-1 device vacuums and mops for an easier clean, no matter the surface. It's even self-cleaning! Best of all, it works in tandem with an odor-neutralizing solution that instantly eliminates and prevents bad odors from reforming on floors and area rugs, for a fresher-smelling home even days after.

If you're looking to spoil someone, get them this next-level travel suitcase. It has all the convenient features they could want — hard, durable sides; zippered storage compartments; a built-in combination lock; rotating wheels; and an extendable handle — plus, its internal structure pops out to become a portable closet. This piece of luggage actually helps people stay organized while traveling, which is quite a rare and beautiful thing. Read our full review for more details.

Create a one-of-a-kind gift by personalizing a calendar with your friend's or loved one’s favorite photos. They’ll be able to relive their most treasured moments one month at a time, and when the year is over, they can turn it on its side and use it as a photo frame. This 2-in-1 gift is super thoughtful and super practical.

Another cleaning gift that's sure to brighten someone's day (especially given that it's one pick that is on dozens of wishlists) is this small but mighty upholstery cleaner. The TikTok-favorite device gets rid of food stains, pet accidents, and more while also steam cleaning rugs, carpets, sofas, armchairs, car seats, and more. Its dual spray and suction function also make sure stains are gone for good.

If you're really having trouble thinking of a gift and want something you know they'll use, get them an Apple AirTag. This nifty device is especially helpful for keeping track of luggage and backpacks, and once it's synced with someone's phone, all they have to do is drop it in their bag and never think about it. The next time an airline loses their suitcase, they'll know exactly where it is (and they'll know exactly who to thank).

A helpful household gadget like this clever laundry detergent stand is sure to win over your loved one. Commerce SEO editor Sarah calls the organizer a "miracle worker," writing that it only takes a minute to set up and stays in place afterward. "If you’re tired of fumbling around with giant gallon-sized bottles of laundry detergent, give yourself (and your back) a break with one of these stands," she wrote.

For the style-conscious traveler in your life, take a look at this sleek glasses case from Dagne Dover. One AT editor (a self-proclaimed sunglasses devotee) says that it's a total game changer both at home and on the go because it keeps up to three pairs of glasses or sunglasses free from scratches and other damage. Choose from seven snazzy colors.

A friend who lives in a city and doesn't already own a grocery cart is sure to fall in love with Hulken's foldable bag on wheels, even if it's initially something they don't think they need. "It rolls smoothly and doesn’t feel heavy to pull, even when it’s packed full, and the top zips shut so that things inside don’t fall out," wrote contributor Sarah in her review of the tote. "I’ve walked with my Hulken for 30 blocks on end following grocery trips and appreciate that I don’t have to shell out for a cab when transporting tons of heavy items. Consider the days of struggling trying to walk home from the store with five different canvas tote bags hanging off of your arms over!"

Not only does this lovely heart-shaped vanity mirror exude charm, but it will also come in handy every single day. It illuminates via a smart touch button, and it has a catch-all base for storing jewelry, makeup, and skincare items.

These Brooklinen sheets are so luxe that they make contributor Jasmine want to stay in bed all day. “Made from long-staple cotton with a percale weave, these sheets were made to mimic that hotel-style sleep experience you typically only get when vacationing somewhere fancy,” she writes. “Not only do these sheets totally live up to the hype, but they’ve single-handedly raised the bar for how I shop for bedding.”

Keep friends and family up-to-date with your little ones (or your travels!) by gifting them this digital photo frame from Aura. Gone are the days where you have to create a shared album on your phone — instead, Aura will corral all your favorite shots into a rotating slideshow on this gorgeous frame for a perma-trip down memory lane.

Practicality meets perfection in the ultimate do-it-all vacuum from Dyson. The V8 Absolute has a wall-mounted charging dock to save space, transforms into a hand-held vacuum, and features no-touch emptying with just a push of a button. From hard floors to carpets, it works on practically every surface and gets a lot of help from its five included cleaning heads. Check out our full review of it to learn more.

Made from 100-percent pure mulberry silk, this satiny-smooth pillowcase is as luxurious a gift as you can get. It's easy on your face (begone wrinkles!) and hair (farewell frizz!) and makes your bed feel like a five-star hotel room. Plus, gifts that grant a better night's sleep are always practical in our book.

These cute air freshener tags from DedCool are so practical in part because they're so versatile. Your loved one can hang them in the car, in their wardrobe, in the coat closet, and any other spot that could use a scented boost. Plus, you get to choose from among DedCool's popular fragrances for the scents, which is fun all on its own.

We’ve sung the praises of this versatile weekender before, and we still have big love for the genius piece. “To start, its design is the definition of smart,” reports SEO commerce editor Sarah. “It features everything from deep side pockets and multiple interior pockets (including a bottom compartment to keep shoes or dirty clothes separate from the rest of your belongings), to a key leash and a luggage sleeve that easily slips over most suitcase handles… The first time I used this bag, I was shocked at how much fit inside.”

These Souper Cubes may seem like a quirky pick at first, but they'll be a game changer for anyone in your life who loves to batch-cook soup or save copious amounts of leftovers. They can simply fill the silicone vessels and freeze worry- (and leak-) free, gifting them the freedom to defrost a cup of hearty soup any time the craving hits.

Whether their idea of adventure is a five-day backpacking trip in the wilderness or a picnic in the park, this Rumpl blanket is the perfect accessory. Made entirely of recycled water bottles, it's lightweight, waterproof, and surprisingly warm, allowing it to flex between a cuddly camping companion and a waterproof perch during weekends in the park.

This chic, cordless handheld vac is roughly the size of a wine bottle, making it a compact and practical pick for homes of all sizes. Good looks aside, this Eufy device packs a punch, with a powerful 5,500Pa suction power, a washable high-efficiency filter, and a multi-use crevice tool to reach every nook and cranny.

Few things in life are more annoying than when your morning cup of coffee goes cold before you can finish it off. Well, Ember is here to solve that problem with this genius, temperature-controlled mug. It keeps coffee, tea, and other hot beverages (yes, hot toddies included) at the ideal temperature for up to 90 minutes. Just adjust the temperature within the app and sip as slowly as you'd like.

You’ll feel like a grown-up version of the tooth fairy when you gift this sleek, sophisticated electric toothbrush with a fanatic following. If you’re feeling generous, you can throw in a subscription that will send them a new toothbrush head replacement every three months.

At this point, our WFH offices are a constant work in progress. This wall organizer will certainly take your friend's setup up a notch, making getting organized both effortless and chic. The calendar and checklist will make life a lot easier, so they can come within striking distance of that elusive work-life balance.

“What was immediately noticeable about the Crane & Canopy plush bath towel is that it absolutely lives up to its name,” writes contributor Jasmine. “It was so dang soft to the touch, even before throwing it in the machine for its first wash. In fact, it’s only gotten softer over time. Plushness aside, it’s also very easy to spot the high quality of this towel’s construction.”

A massager is key to a healthy scalp, doing everything from boosting hair growth to gently exfoliating. “Nothing — and I mean nothing — has ever soothed my dandruff like this thing,” writes contributor Olivia. “Each morning when I shower, I simply pour my shampoo onto the brush side of the massager and make small circles across my scalp while applying gentle pressure. It makes for a nice daily head massage, and I haven’t had any trouble with flakes since I started using it.”

Do your part to help the planet with these reusable silicone bags that are BPA- and PVC-free. Each one saves thousands of single-use plastic bags from ending up in a landfill or the ocean. They are designed to keep food fresh, plus they're dishwasher and microwave safe.

Truly a next-level planner, this device allows you to save digital versions of the pages to cloud services — including Google Drive, Dropbox, Evernote, Box, OneNote, Slack, iCloud, and email — all with the free app. There are five sections to help you boost productivity, from daily tasks and a monthly overview to quarterly and annual goals. Check out commerce editor Britt's review here.

Essentially a handyman in your pocket, this TSA-friendly tool does it all. It fits on your keychain and has more than 16 functions, including a bottle opener, screwdriver, ruler, wrench, bit driver, file, and bike spoke key.

Give the gift of peace of mind with this emergency kit that's sure to be a hit. The backpack contains everything necessary to sustain two people for 72 hours. We’re talking first-aid kit, survival blanket, power station, multi-tool, food, and water. It's no wonder one of our editors loves to give it as a housewarming gift.

Getting out of bed in the morning is a lot easier with the Loftie by your side. “Designed as an alarm clock fit for the 21st century, the Loftie is an all-in-one nightstand essential meant to help you both unwind before bed and wake refreshed,” writes commerce editor Sarah. “With features including a clock, sound machine, breathwork exercises, and a nightlight, this stylish wellness device incorporates the essential tech you may need at night while keeping all the distracting parts (emails, texts, and late-night doomscrolling) in another room — where they belong.”

The editor-loved TubShroom protects drain and pipes from getting clogged with hair and debris, ultimately saving your loved one money on snakes, drain cleaners, and plumbing work. It comes with two adapters for small and large drains. Although most plugs go over the drain, the TubShroom goes inside the drain, which helps it catch hair without disrupting the flow of water, so they won’t have to worry about clogging the tub.

The makers of the Always Pan 2.0 say this sauté pan can perform the job of 10 different cookware pieces — and they're right. With walls that are slightly taller than regular nonstick pans, a vented lid, and a removable metal steamer basket, this one device can easily be someone's go-to daily cooking vessel for big and small dishes. This updated version is also safe to put in the oven, so broiling and baking are options, too. Check out our full review to see it in action.

Your giftee doesn't have to be an avid gardener to get use out of these darling mushroom-shaped watering globes. Even if they just have a couple plants, they'll enjoy being able to water their pothos via the globes when on vacation or otherwise away from home for more than a day. It doesn't hurt that the globes are so fun to look at, either.

One can never have too many power outlets, and this plug-in surge protector ensures your friend will be able to charge all of their devices at once and still have outlets left over for a lamp or two. Best of all, this editor-loved find doesn't lie on the floor like most power strips, so they won't trip over it.

You can be one with nature while still being connected to the modern world thanks to these gardening gloves that feature touchscreen fingertips. Made with comfort in mind, they're constructed from four-way spandex and have adjustable wrist straps to prevent dirt from getting in. There’s even a terry cloth patch on the back of the glove to wipe away dirt and sweat.

This editor-favorite spatula is great for your pal who fancies themselves a home chef and loves their non-stick pans. Available in two colors, it's dishwasher-safe, high-heat tolerant, and won't damage any of their cookware, no matter how hard they scrape. Read our full review of it here.

When it comes to food prep, kids' lunches, and just generally eating away from home, good storage containers are key. Apartment Therapy editors have big love for Stojo containers for exactly that reason. Not only are they stylish (and available in a slew of cute shades), they're also leak-proof, dishwasher-safe, and completely free of any harmful chemicals that may give you pause. This set is comprehensive, collapsable, and a total must-have.

For a gift that is both practical and indulgent, look no further than Vitruvi's stone essential oil diffuser. It combines style and substance into a handy little gadget that will allow your recipient to start their day with an energetic essential oil charge and end it with a relaxing blend at night. With two time settings and the ability to scent up to 500 square feet of space, it's perfect for apartment dwellers and homeowners alike.

Candles aren't the most practical gift, nor are they particularly original. But this fresh-smelling odor eliminator gel is sure to make an impression. The Azuna kit comes with a gel refill pack and two containers. Your giftee simply fills them with the gel, places the containers in the fridge or wherever else needs freshening, and enjoys an odor-free home from here on out.

Help your coffee-loving friend save money on buying pre-packaged cold brew coffee with this simple cold brew coffee maker. It's incredibly easy to use and requires zero barista skills, and it includes a reusable metal filter, so whoever receives this won't have to worry about buying replacement filters. Plus, the next time you visit this friend, you know you can treat yourself to some deliciously refreshing cold brew!

Even if the person you're shopping for has too many water bottles, they definitely don't have one like this. This double-wall insulated water bottle has a secret storage compartment in the bottom that can hold keys, money, and other valuables and keep them out of sight. Great for anyone who goes to the gym and wants a convenient and discreet way to keep their stuff nearby and secure.

Give the gift of a great night's rest with this highly-rated sleep mask. As its name suggests, it's made from 100 percent pure silk, which is key to helping hair and skin retain moisture throughout the night. It's also a great gift for anyone who travels and wants to bring a cozy comfort from home to help them sleep.

Quality cookware is a lasting investment, and this Ninja Ceramic 9-Piece Set is stylish, durable, and oven-safe up to 550 degrees. Cook with minimal oil, making it a perfect gift for health enthusiasts!

Keep your loved ones safe and sound with this TikTok-famous personal security system from Birdie. The innovative bite-sized device fits discretely on a keychain or purse and blares a 115-decibel siren when activated, alerting those nearby that you may need help.

Looking for a gift to help someone you love catch Z's? Featuring an integrated sound machine, soft-glow reading light, meditation prompts, sunrise alarm, and more, this clever gadget from Hatch is basically like having your own personal sleep coach right on your nightstand. Sweet dreams await!

These enamel-safe teeth whitening strips offer a pain-free experience and are enriched with mint and natural coconut oil for a refreshing sensation. In just 30 minutes, they do the trick thanks to their non-slip design. Save your giftee a little money on their annual teeth whitening with these strips — they'll surely appreciate it!

New renters will appreciate being gifted a comprehensive tool kit. When they have to assemble a piece of furniture or fix the sink plug, they'll be able to pull out this bad boy and get the job done, themselves. Ian, our sister site's former commerce editor, said the kit comes with every tool you could possibly need as a renter, including a hammer, wrench, scissors, hex keys, screwdriver set, and more. "[It] has everything I need to hang a painting, install shelves, put together furniture, tighten lids on pots and pans, and pretend I know what I’m doing with a pair of pliers," he wrote.

Whether you give it as a stocking stuffer or include it in a care package, the Pop Sonic compact mirror is a gadget your loved one will want to bring along no matter where they go. The mirror has 10 built-in LED lights for seamless touch-ups, and it comes with three batteries, so they can start using it right out of the box.

What better gift can there be than a sound night’s sleep? This white noise machine from Tuft + Needle takes the form of a clean cylinder that’s just the right size to perch on a nightstand. It’s understated enough to go with any bedroom style and will be a godsend for any new parents or troubled sleepers in your life.

Gift the perfect lip care with this serum that's packed with hyaluronic acid, squalane, shea butter, prickly pear, and watermelon extracts for silky, healthy lips. It's free from Parabens, Phthalates, Sulfates, and more so you can give the gift of plump, nourished lips without any guilt.