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One of the best parts of the holiday season is picking out the perfect gift for everyone on your list, but what about the presents that miss the mark? Of course, it’s the thought and care that counts, but we’ll be the first to admit that it’s disappointing to know that what you’ve picked out, just ends up collecting dust!
This year, it’ll be different.
Whether you’re buying for a friend who has everything, a family member who insists they don’t need a present, or a mystery recipient in an office White Elephant exchange, we have you covered with 10 gift ideas that are as practical as they are desirable.
These handy little earplugs are the ultimate companion, so be warned — gifting these to a friend might replace you as their BFF. Loop Earplugs’ Quiet 2 model comes in a variety of stylish colours and are designed to muffle unwanted noise.
Whether the sounds of bustling public transit make your skin crawl, your housemates have a way of making noise while you’re trying to nap, or your neighbour has a weird obsession with using his loud leaf blower for hours on end while you work from home (okay, maybe that’s just us), the ultra-comfy design and 24 dB (SNR) of noise reduction will put you (or the recipient) back at ease.
Where: Online
Newsflash! You don’t need a gazillion-dollar machine to make cafe-quality espresso. An Aeropress can serve multiple espresso-style shots at a fraction of the price. It’s perfect for self-proclaimed coffee snobs (we mean, lovers), hosts and hostesses, and that somebody who spends a little too much money at a certain Seattle chain.
The bundle comes with an AeroPress chamber, micro-filters, scoop, stirrer, and carafe. Throw in a bag of your favourite coffee and you’ve got yourself a great gift!
Where: Select retailers and online
A cleaning tool for a present? Hear us out. This is more than just a vacuum. It’s the gift of time and a clean home — both of which are practically priceless. Four dirt-detect technologies boost power to Shark’s strongest cordless suction for enhanced cleaning by up to 75%, along with two brush rolls for all floor types, and ultra-powerful hair pickup.
Plus, did you know most vacuums only clean when moving forward? Shark saves time by cleaning in forward and reverse for up to 70 minutes. It also auto-empties and charges after every clean. Basically, you move the lightweight vacuum around, and let it take care of everything else.
Where: Online
Beloved by dads everywhere, and for good reason. Yeti cups keep hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold for hours on end, while being cupholder compatible, splash-resistant, and dishwasher safe.
Plus with more than 10 colours to choose from, you can hand-pick the option you think best suits your giftee’s personality. Emotional support water bottles are out — emotional support Yeti’s are in.
Where: Select retailers and online
The avant-garde fashion house behind Pat McGrath’s viral porcelain doll look last winter also creates signature scents, and they’re nothing short of fantastic. Maison Margiela’s unisex Replica line is inspired by the familiar scents and locations that evoke nostalgia, like rainy days, autumn afternoons, or the perfect date.
While you can opt for a bottle dedicated to a special memory with an even more-special someone, the sampler set has 10 fragrances for an affordable price; perfect for anyone still on the search for their signature scent.
Where: Sephora
Everyone washes their hands. Not everyone is willing to fork over the cash for luxurious hand soap, which is what makes this Aesop option the perfect gift. The gentle formulation containing orange, rosemary, and lavender oil effectively cleanses hands without drying them out. It’s a lifesaver during the winter — especially in the dry prairie provinces.
If it’s in the budget, opt for the Resurrection Duet, which has 500 mL bottles of both the wash and balm to keep hard-working hands soft and nourished for a long time.
Raise your hand if your food container drawer is a disaster zone! We’re guilty as charged, and we bet basically everyone you know is as well. Missing lids and un-stackable containers can create a rage-inducing mess, but Flat Stacks are the solution.
These handy silicone containers are colour-coded and collapse for easy storage, making them a dream for anyone looking to clear the clutter from their cupboards. We’re talking space saved by up to 60%. Plus they’re microwave and dishwasher safe, which means they can be treated the same as any other container.
Where: Online or through retailers at various Canadian holiday markets
No home chef should be without a nice Dutch oven, and while we love Le Creuset as much as the next guy, there are other brands available for those who can’t quite justify the price tag.
Lodge Cast Iron offers high-quality performance at a great value, with a variety of sizes and colours to suit any kitchen. Whether cooking, marinating, baking, or storing, this versatile Dutch oven can handle any task. Plus, it’s super stylish, so don’t be surprised if the lucky recipient has it on display with the rest of their kitchen decor.
Where: In-store at HomeSense (Call for availability)
No, not that Jack Black. This iteration is a skincare line that gets back to the basics with a range of essential products formulated with the finest ingredients, suitable for sensitive skin.
While the brand may be targeted at men, the products can be used by anyone who values healthy skin. The Skin Saviors set has TSA-approved sizes of facial cleanser, facial scrub, SPF 20 moisturizer, and SPF 25 lip balm. Trust us – they’ll be hooked.
Where: Select retailers and online
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