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The Spruce
Our favorite gifts for a mom will usually hit one or more of these notes: make her life a bit easier, elevate her daily routine, or allow her to practice her preferred form of self-care.
If you're overwhelmed by the many choices that fit those parameters (we get it!), our advice is to opt for something she'll use regularly, like a subscription to a streaming platform, a handy piece of home tech, or a detailed planner to keep track of it all. You also can't go wrong by pampering her on a special day—think bath bombs in her favorite scent, a treatment at a local spa, or an invitation to a workout class with a friend—perfect as last-minute gifts that still feel special.
To come up with even more suggestions, we spent hours polling moms, researching and testing products from well-respected brands, and considering functional and thoughtful gifts for every budget.
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Our Top Picks
If the busy mom in your life is one of those people who forgets to drink their coffee before it goes cold, this gift is for them. The Ember smart mug keeps coffee and other drinks warm for up to 90 minutes on its own, or all day if you leave it on the warming coaster.
The reMarkable 2 tablet is the perfect product for the person who still loves the feel of pen to paper but appreciates the convenience of technology. The tablet allows her to write down notes and save them to the cloud. Documents can also be read and signed via the tablet. The super-thin device is less than a pound and is a great way to reduce printouts and sticky notes. If getting organized is on her to-do list, then this is a great present.
If mom loves sparkling water, help her save time and money with a SodaStream. Just fill up the included bottle with water, lock it into place, and watch it transform into delicious sparkling water. She can also add flavored beverage mixes for a healthier alternative to her favorite sodas and juices.
What's better than a cozy throw blanket on a chilly evening? A heated one! This blanket from Bedsure is equipped with 10 time settings, six heat settings, and an automatic shut-off after eight hours for your peace of mind. It also comes in just under 20 colors and patterns.
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A busy and on-the-go mom needs a reliable portable charger—even better, one that fits in her pocket. This one from Anker takes up little space and plugs right into a phone so she doesn't have to wrestle with messy cords. Just note that it's a USB-C charger, so if she has an older smartphone, you may need to gift her a converter as well.
For the busy mom who only has five minutes to get ready in the morning, this Merit Beauty set is the perfect gift. Each product is customizable to her preferred shades, and she'll end up looking her most effortless, glowy self each day but without all the effort.
Shower times are precious for busy moms who may not get another moment to themselves the whole day. Make sure shower time is as luxurious and relaxing as possible with a set of aromatherapy shower steamers. The six-pack comes with different scents for different purposes, such as lavender for nighttime showers or eucalyptus for waking up in the morning.
Mom can grow herbs, fruit, and more with this indoor garden. Click and Grow's Smart Indoor Garden 3 comes with smart soil capsules, an easy-to-fill water tank, and an integrated LED grow light for added convenience. It also has a built-in reservoir to help ensure plants get exactly what they need—regardless of the weather outside—and the entire set-up is compact enough to fit on her kitchen counter or even desk. Plus, it's dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.
The Click & Grow The Smart Garden 3 was easy to assemble and comes with a removable water tank. PHOTO: The Spruce We liked the adjustable grow light that we can move as the plants grow. PHOTO: The Spruce Since it's a self-watering system, it does require water refills which are simple to do. PHOTO: The Spruce
No one has time to head to the nail salon every two weeks for an hour or two to get a perfect manicure—and you don't have to. Chillhouse's cult-favorite Chill Tips are some of the best press-ons on the market and take just minutes to apply. They last up to two weeks and come in a range of fun patterns and colors to suit her mood.
What's better than a mimosa in the morning? A Minute Mimosa in the morning! This gift set of mimosa cubes comes in three different flavors to choose from—peaches and berries, citrus, or shimmer peaches and berries. You simply drop one of the sugar cubes into a glass of bubbly, and you have a ready-made mimosa that tastes like you got it at a cocktail bar.
Warm towels used to be such a luxury reserved for stays in high-end hotels. But with so many towel warmers out there now, you can easily bring that luxury feeling into your home. After a long day of rushing around, any busy mom will appreciate stepping out of a bath or shower with a warm towel waiting for them nearby.
The Live Fine Towel Warmer is compact yet spacious enough to fit two regular-sized towels. PHOTO: The Spruce A helpful feature of this towel warmer is the timer feature with 15-, 30-, 45-, or 60-minute increments. PHOTO: The Spruce The insulated lid of this pick ensures the outside won't be too hot to touch. PHOTO: The Spruce
Digital planners are extremely popular and here's one from HappyDownloads that's specifically geared toward moms. She can choose from five daily layouts and seven weekly options, which all come in six colors. The templates include a homework tracker, cleaning schedule, meal plan, milestone markers, and even a birth plan page for expectant moms. Some pages are undated, so she can easily use the planner year after year.
Slippers might seem like a basic gift, but don't underestimate how functional and practical they are. The Tasman slipper from UGG is like walking on a cloud, which we found while testing them at home. She'll love sliding her feet into these wool-lined slippers that keep her feet warm yet cool. Also, the water-resistant exterior and durable soles make them perfect for a run to the mailbox or a trip outside.
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Moms who love trying new recipes will be inspired by this olive oil sampler from Heraclea. With delicious and unique flavors like chili, lemon, rosemary, and garlic, the collection makes a tasty addition to salad dressings, marinades, spreads, and more. Or just grab a piece of crusty bread and sample all four.
A busy mom needs a tote bag that's multifunctional and durable, and Cuyana's classic leather tote fits the bill. She can use this as a work tote, diaper bag, personal carry-on item, and so much more. There's no shortage of space to keep everything organized, including an interior zipper pocket, and the leather is easy to spot clean. Not only do the leather straps look even better with wear, but the 10-inch drop is ideal for comfortably carrying on the shoulder.
Gift mom some minimalistic yet beautiful bling like this "mama" necklace from Benevolence LA. Available in gold, white gold, and rose gold, it reminds your recipient of the important role she plays every day. The dainty piece is great for stacking with other necklaces or wearing on its own as a statement piece.
Moms have to keep track of a lot from day to day, and there’s nothing more frustrating than frantic, last-minute searches for keys, wallets, or cell phones. The Tile Mate Bluetooth trackers are an easy way to eliminate this problem—attach them to important items, then launch the Tile app to ring your things. Can’t find the phone? No worries—the Tile Mate can ring it even in silent mode. You can buy the one-pack, but there’s also a four-pack available that will truly serve mom well.
A portable humidifier combats dryness in the air to keep skin, lips, and sinuses moisturized and healthy. This wireless option from Hew Dewy charges with a USB cable and fits in a car's cupholder, so mom can soak in moments of self-care during her morning commute or evening errands.
There’s no better place for mom to relax and indulge in some "me time" than the bath, and the Royal Craft Wood Luxury Bath Caddy Tray keeps several must-haves dry and secure. There’s a spot for a book or tablet, smartphone, wine glass (or other drink), soap, and even a candle. Made from water-resistant, anti-microbial bamboo, the caddy fits most bathtubs and extends to 43 inches across.
What mom doesn't deserve a little bit of peace and quiet? Loop earplugs are some of the best on the market, and come in a range of different styles for her needs. This pair is designed for sleep, focus, and travel, and the best part is that they don't hurt your ears like traditional disposable earplugs. Plus, they come in a range of colors to suit her aesthetic.
Busy moms might not have the time to tend to plants. Easyplant makes it—you guessed it!—easy to keep plants watered and looking beautiful with minimal effort. Every plant on the site comes in a self-watering planter that only requires filling once a month. This snake plant comes in a gorgeous ceramic pot in a color of her choice and easily adapts to low to medium light, so it's perfect for every home.
Finding some downtime as a mom can be challenging. Help her unwind and make her sleep habits more manageable by gifting her the Hatch Restore 2 that we fell in love with during testing. The alarm clock features a library full of meditations, white noise, and other sleep sounds to help her fall asleep. Mornings can also be especially tough for mom, but this alarm can wake her up gently with the brightness of the sunrise setting.
For a tech-free approach, you can use the buttons to activate your routine or snooze your alarm. PHOTO: The Spruce The setup of the Hatch Restore 2 is super easy and everything can be controlled through the app. PHOTO: The Spruce
Busy moms may not have time for multiple skincare steps every day, so a product like Supergoop's Unseen Sunscreen is an easy way to add SPF to her routine. Plus, it may not be something she would buy for herself. She'll be thankful for the care you take in her physical and mental well-being.
Lavender is known for its relaxing properties, so help her unwind with this thoughtful gift set that comes with everything she needs for a relaxing spa day. This set includes a candle, socks, mug, tea, and more, plus a note to let her know you're thinking of her. Not special enough? You can upgrade this set with a luxurious throw blanket to really amp up the coziness.
Staying hydrated is important for everyone, but especially for busy moms who might forget to have water throughout the day. The Stanley Tumbler is great for helping to remind her (who could forget when your water is contained in such a pretty vessel?), and it comes in so many fun colors from neutrals to bright neons so she can pick the one she likes best. The Stanley is insulated, so she can even use it for coffee and tea if she prefers a hot beverage.
When shopping for mom, consider buying from woman-owned businesses like Lady Falcon Coffee Club. With this subscription, she never has to worry about running out of beans for her morning joe. Choose how much coffee to send every month and how she'll want the beans prepared, and Lady Falcon Coffee Club will do the rest.
If there's one thing most moms need more of, it's sleep. A weighted eye mask can help. This one from Nodpod lays across your eyes and secures in the back for side and back sleepers. It blocks light and the beads inside contour to the eyes for a light relaxing pressure to help her sleep. Plus, if she suffers from migraines, it can go in the freezer for chilly relief.
Vitruvi's essential oil diffuser is a piece of decor that doesn't just look stylish and sleek but also sets a relaxing ambiance. The 7-inch high diffuser can be set to four hours or eight intermittent hours as the scent of her favorite essential oil fills the room. This doesn't just make a space smell great, but some oils can even ease headaches, sinus pressure, or allergies.
Streamline mom's nighttime routine with a therapy lamp from Verilux. With the HappyLight Luxe, she can adjust the brightness, temperature, and color of the UV light throughout the day. She can even set a countdown timer when settling into bed or leaving for work in the morning. For stay-at-home moms or those working from home, this light brings valuable sunlight indoors.
She'll never worry if she blows out her candle before leaving the house, thanks to this candle warmer (and your thoughtful gifting). The soft light and warm temperature setting melt candles from the top and allow her to safely enjoy her favorite scents. With five designs to choose from, you can match her decor preferences, too.
During our testing, we found that the Cozyberry Candle Warmer Lamp works best with large candles. PHOTO: The Spruce / Henry Wortock We love this option's helpful features like a dimmer switch and timer. PHOTO: The Spruce / Henry Wortock Keep in mind that the lamp shade can become hot to the touch. PHOTO: The Spruce / Henry Wortock With large candles, this lamp melted the wax evenly and delivered an even and attractive fragrance. PHOTO: The Spruce / Henry Wortock
For moms who work in front of the computer all day, gift her a set of blue-light glasses to protect her eyes as they work. Blue light glasses are meant to reduce eye fatigue, blurred vision, and headaches for people constantly looking at a computer or phone screen. These durable frames come in tons of flattering colors and designs, and the two-pack ensures your recipient can change up her look whenever she pleases.
If she's too busy for salon manicures, then a high-quality nail set like this glass kit from Tweezerman will elevate her at-home care. The eco-friendly material is durable and gentle and typically lasts longer than traditional emery boards. She'll be all set for smoothing, shaping, and shining.
Whether she uses it for travel, or stores it at home and separates her keepsake jewelry from her daily wear, this jewelry organizer will be a welcome addition. Two different sizes and five color choices give you lots of options, and multiple inner compartments, loops, and pouches will ensure that her favorite rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets stay secure.
Mom deserves better than lounging around the house in the same old yoga pants and tattered t-shirt. While a flowy, feather, or lace-trimmed robe might not be practical, this option we tested and loved from Amazon provides fashion and function. The super-soft, belted waffle robe feels great, and it comes in tons of colors and sizes so there's something for everyone.
The Amazon Essentials Waffle Robe gave us the perfect layer of warmth and absorbency. PHOTO: The Spruce The material was a bit stiff at first, but after washing it, it instantly softened up. PHOTO: The Spruce This robe is perfect for after showering, and it dried quickly after hanging it up. PHOTO: The Spruce The belt is secured by loops so it won't slip off your body. PHOTO: The Spruce
An elegant writing pen is probably not the first thing she thinks of when she shops for herself, which is why she'll feel treated by you whenever she uses this gorgeous one from Rifle Paper Co. We love the colorful prints and bright patterns from the brand and the versatility the designs offer; you can help her build a whole collection with accessories like notepads and desk supplies.
Take away the guesswork of daily dinners with a CookUnity gift card. Recipients select four to 16 meals that arrive weekly, inspired by professional chefs. The meals come chilled and ready to eat, so moms just have to heat them and chow down.
Set alarms, check the weather, play music, and so much more with the Google Home Mini. The small but mighty device is the perfect addition to mom's busy life. The whole family can set reminders and check schedules while enjoying their favorite songs and podcasts. It's a great gift the whole family can enjoy (that also keeps mom's busy schedule at bay).
While making time for self-care and self-reflection is difficult, this guided journal takes all the guesswork out of daily journaling, so even busy moms can partake. The prompts help her practice goal-setting, manifesting, gratitude, affirmations, and more. With added spreads like habit and spend trackers, the journal is also a functional way for moms to keep track of their feelings and daily tasks.
This infrared thermal brush from Bondi Boost ensures even the busiest moms have time to create gorgeous hairstyles every morning. The gently heated brush tames frizz, adds extra shine, and creates bouncy curls for a blow-out look in half the time. Plus, the infrared technology is designed to not damage hair like traditional heated hair tools.
If mom could use some pampering, or if she's a seasoned beauty junkie who’s always up on the latest palettes being released, you can’t go wrong with a gift card from Ulta. This bit of plastic or the e-card is the best way to give her a shopping spree on someone else’s dime. The store has every popular brand in hair, skincare, and makeup.
With the right coffee maker, mom can have her favorite coffee brewed and ready to go before she even opens her eyes. This pick from Cuisinart has adjustable brew strengths, an automatic timer, and a programmable function that lets her start brewing at the same time every morning so she's never without a cup of joe.
Ideal for the mom who has to grab her coffee and go, Yeti’s rambler is a one-handed wonder that easily fits in the cupholder of most cars. This stainless steel 20-ounce mug is vacuum-insulated to keep hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold without any annoying condensation. Unlike other similar styles that can be hard to grip, this one features a handle that makes it easy to sip on the go.
Mom can take her favorite smoothie or shake on the go with this portable blender from BlendJet. After blending ingredients together, she can pack the blender right in her backpack or diaper bag. It charges with a USB cord and can last through 15 blends on a single charge. Plus, it's a breeze to clean. Just add soap and water, blend, and rinse.
Other Great Gift Options
We all know someone who won't list any ideas when you mention giving them a gift. In this case, respect their wishes while finding a different way to show your love, such as gardening gifts, something homemade, or quality time spent together.
Or, show you appreciate all her time and effort by giving her a gift that makes her chaotic life feel simpler. Any mom with a packed schedule is sure to appreciate a meal delivery service like CookUnity, a gift card to her favorite restaurant, or some babysitting. If you have a low budget, quality time away from the kids for a night is always a good option. Find the busy mom a babysitter and organize a spa day at home.
Tips on Choosing a Gift for a Busy Mom
Self-care shouldn't be an indulgence, especially for busy moms taking care of family members. Look for a gift that encourages mom to carve out some much-needed "me time," whether a gift card to the hair salon or spa, a decadent chocolate gift, a nice skincare product like the Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen, or the latest book by her favorite author. Bonus points if you pair it with a cozy blanket (or an electric option like the Bedsure Heated Throw) to relax under.
Moms with romantic partners might not get tons of time to invest in their relationship, so consider a gift that encourages just that. For example, you could buy a busy couple tickets to a concert or a gift card to a nice restaurant. Just make sure you don't forget to line up a babysitter, too (or offer to watch the kids yourself).
When in doubt, think of functionality above all else. What will make her day-to-day life easier? Some examples on our list include the Google Home Mini, which is a lifesaver for setting timers, asking about the weather, and playing music in a pinch, and the Anker Portable Charger, which ensures her favorite devices are always charged and ready to go.
Why Trust The Spruce?
The article was written by Julia Fields, a senior editor who covers everything gifts and holidays at The Spruce. For this story, she polled moms, researched trending products, and personally tested multiple options to compile this comprehensive list.
She also constantly consults experts in the gifting field to get tips on what to consider when finding the perfect gift. She's personally used and loves the Vitruvi Stone Diffuser, Google Home Mini, and plants from Easyplant.
Our Experts:
- Kate McKenna, senior editor at The Spruce specializing in home and lifestyle topics